Page 168 of Falling for the Grumpiest Protector

"We always need people."

"I could probably do something with that irrigation system."

"Now you're just trying to prove me wrong."

"I already proved you wrong."

"Debatable."

He smiles. Then his expression grows quieter. "I mean it, though."

"So do I." I hold his gaze. "You're welcome there anytime."

"Good." A beat passes. "I'd like that."

"So would I."

He's almost finished his coffee when he asks, "Did you think about me?"

The question is so quiet I nearly miss it. "Every day."

His eyes close briefly. I wish that answer were enough. It isn't.

"I wrote to you."

His eyes open. "What?"

"Letters. Birthday cards. Christmas cards. Sometimes letters when there wasn't a reason."

"How many?"

"I don't know." I do. Enough to fill the box in my truck.

"Did Mom send them back?"

"No."

His forehead creases. "Then where are they?"

"I have them."

Understanding comes slowly. "You didn't send them."

"No."

"Why?"

"Same reason I didn't call. I convinced myself leaving you alone was better than showing up and asking you to make room for me."

Diego looks down. "I would've wanted them."

Four words. Quietly spoken. They hurt more than anything else he's said.

"I know that now."

"You could've asked."

"Yes."