Page 49 of Wild Hearts

We stopped at her house so she could grab her snow gear and skis. Then we headed to the lodge. Scarlett planned to drop Dakota off there.

We curled up on the large leather couch in front of the fire. The TV played a classic holiday movie. It was nice to sit and enjoy the large Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments.

"It's hard to believe it's almost Christmas," I said to her softly.

"I bet this year looks a lot different than last."

I nodded. "I have a daughter, and I'm home for good."

"You're planning to stay here with Dakota?"

I frowned. "Yeah, why wouldn't we stay here?"

"Her grandparents, her friends, and her old school are all in Virginia."

"You were the one that said it would be good for Dakota to have a fresh start." I didn't even want to think about moving across the country. I'd only just gotten Dakota settled.

"I wasn't sure if she'd change her mind."

"I guess she could, but we'd have to make that decision together. Here, we have a home, and I have a job. We have family. I don't want to move."

"But you're a good dad, and you would if that's what Dakota wanted."

"Sure." For some reason, I felt like that was the wrong answer. But logically, it made sense, even if it wasn't what I wanted. When you had kids, you did things in their best interest, not yours.

Just then, Scarlett and Dakota walked in, laden down with shopping bags.

I leaned forward with my elbows on my knees. "What did you get?"

Scarlett dropped to her knees in front of us pulling out various items from the bags. "Books, pillows, and throws. A few pictures for her room."

Dakota chewed her lip. "Was it too much?"

I'd given Scarlett my credit card earlier. I'd saved my money over the years, and had a lot of time to make up for when it came to Dakota. I wanted to take care of her, but I was conscious of not wanting to spoil her. In this case, it was a necessity. I wanted her to feel at home. "Not at all. You got everything you needed?"

Dakota nodded. "I think so."

"We even went shopping for a few clothes. She wanted warmer sweaters, a jacket, and boots."

I winced. "I'm sorry I hadn't even thought of that."

Dakota shrugged. "It's okay."

It wasn't okay but I'd try to stay on top of what she needed in the future. Dakota relied on me to take care of her.

Scarlett's shoulders dropped. "I'm exhausted. I'm going to head home."

"Where's Aunt Clara?"

"She's in the car. Come out and say goodbye."

"I can do that." And then to Dakota and Addison, I said, "I'll be right back."

I walked with Scarlett through the lobby. "Here's your card back. We didn't get too much, did we?" Scarlett asked.

"I said it was fine."

"Dakota was worried about spending your money."

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