Page 41 of Rafe

“Okay.” She set the bag down, pulled on her light jacket, then picked the bag back up, but Rafe took it from her. He opened the door, waited for her to turn the porchlight on, pulled the door closed and locked it, then led her down the stairs to his truck.

On the way to the diner, he heard her sigh. “I wish you didn’t have to worry about this, Maggie.”

“Me too.”

“Did you tell Fred all of it?”

“Yes,” she whispered. “He cried.”

“It doesn’t surprise me. It has to be hard to find out what kind of man your son truly is, but on a brighter note, he’s going out again tonight.” Rafe grinned.

“I’m glad he found someone. He’s such a wonderful man.”

“Yeah, he is. I’d like to see him find someone too.”

Rafe pulled into the parking lot of the diner and after parking, they both walked to the door and entered. It wasn’t very full, so they found a booth and sat down. Connie made her way to them, took their orders, then gave them their drinks.

Rafe watched as the door opened and grinned. “Speak of the devil and he appears.”

“What?” Maggie frowned at him.

“Fred just came in with his date.”

Maggie gasped, and looked over the back of the booth, then at Rafe.

“She’s very pretty.”

“Yes, she is.”

“Has he seen you?”

Rafe chuckled. “Not yet. Can’t wait, though.”

Maggie laughed. “I can’t wait, either.”

“Oh, he just saw me.” Rafe tried not to grin. “He’s heading this way, but the look on his face was priceless.”

“Hey, Rafe. Maggie, honey, are you okay?”

“Hi, Fred. I am for now. What are you doing here?” Maggie asked, making Rafe snort then cough to cover it.

“I, uh, I’m having dinner with a friend. This is Mary Danson. Mary, this is Maggie Lancaster and Rafe Marshall. Maggie was married to my son, but I still consider her my daughter-in-law, and Rafe is my ranch manager,” Fred introduced them.

Rafe slid from the booth and shook her hand. “Ma’am, it’s nice to meet you.”

“You, too.” Mary said, then looked at Maggie. “It’s nice to meet you. Fred talks about both of you.” She smiled.

“I hope it’s all good,” Maggie said with a laugh.

“Yes, it is.”

“Fred? Would you like to join us?” Rafe asked.

“Oh, no, son. We’re not going to be long. We’re going to the movies after we leave here.” Fred grinned.

“Alright. Well, I hope you both have a good evening.”

“You too.” Fred looked at Rafe. “Have you talked her into staying with you?”

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