Page 58 of Country Contract

Would I spend a couple grand on a coat? Probably not, not even this beauty. There’s an appreciation that resonates within me regarding how considerate it is. I can’t help but wonder if this will all wear off once all the paperwork and logistics are done.

Let’s say I marry Heath. We have a wedding; we have a kid. What kind of life would I have? He said he’s looking for a busy wife. He doesn’t want to have to entertain someone, so why is he putting all this effort in now?

Me: Are you trying to buy my affection?

Heath: Another question! No, I just thought it was a nice gesture. If you weren’t in a tropical setting I’d get this coat to you now. It’s perfect for the fall.

Me: So, once we’re married and we’re both busy, the gifts will stop?

Heath: Your consideration is not going unnoticed.

I roll my eyes before reading on.

Heath: Not at all. I want us to be busy. I don’t want you to be waiting for me, but I would very much like to spoil you.

Me: I can spoil myself.

Heath: I know you can spoil yourself . . . like with the trip you’re on right now. Spoiling someone doesn’t have to be because they can’t. It can be because I want to.

Me: Do you want kids?

Heath: If you would like kids, then yes. If you do not, absolutely not.

Me: No desire to keep the House name alive?

Heath: So, no? No, we don’t have to have a kid to do that. When it comes to business, I’ll find the right successor.

Me: I didn’t say I don’t want kids. I’m just asking if you have your own preference.

Heath: My preference is yours.

He’s being too flexible. It’s annoying instead of charming.

Me: You’re losingpoints.

Heath: What’s my current score?

I laugh at that one, enjoying the verbal sparring, which makes a whole lot of sense because most of my conversations with Harrison have been flirtatious banter.

Me: -10.

Heath: Rough.

Me: I know.

Me: So . . .

Heath: I think if I want to spoil you, a miniature version of you would make me putty in their hands.

Damn, that’s endearing. So, he’d be a good father or at least one who would want to give his children the world. I would want to give them that kind of opportunity, too. The kind where they always know we have their back no matter what, and that if they’re in trouble, they have someone in their corner. The kind where they don’t have to worry about anything except being a kid and being happy.

Talking with Cassidy has opened my eyes in so many ways. Parenting is one of them. Her upbringing was practically the opposite of mine. Only one parent, no siblings, and a tight budget. Her appreciation for the people around her, for the love she has for her partner, and for their health and happiness are inspiring.

She wants to give Blake the world, just like Heath seems to for his future kid.

Me: That sounds like a yes.

Heath: I guess it is.

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