Page 82 of Wish You Faith

That made him smile.

“This year,” Marcella replied. “Next year we go to her house in North Carolina.”

“Is she still at your house tonight?” Rosie tried to move away from Evan, but he was following her around.

“Yep. Her kids are too noisy for me, so I left them to themselves. They’re using my TV to play games. I’m over here watching a movie. My daughter will pick me up at ten o’clock tonight.”

“And give me a ride home too,” Dottie said.

Evan leaned toward Rosie’s ear. “I want kids too.”

She froze.

Her hands shook as she opened the refrigerator. It was wall-to-wall covered with food.

“Wow. Look at all that food.” Evan put his hand on Rosie’s waist.

“Marcella brought a turkey breast and dressing. Dottie made Waldorf salad,” Mom said. “We can eat in an hour after this movie is over.”

“I’ll be ready to eat by then.” Rosie took out a can of mineral water from the refrigerator. “Want one too?”

“Yes. Thank you.” Evan took it from her.

He wondered where they could go to have some privacy for one hour.

“Have you seen this movie they’re watching?” Rosie asked.

“No.” Evan usually watched suspense and mysteries, not love stories.

“Let’s go sit with them.” Rosie didn’t wait for Evan to reply.

He followed her into the open living room, but there wasn’t a place for them to sit together except on the rug, which extended beyond the coffee table. They sat down on the rug in front of the table.

Before he could enjoy half the movie, he received a text from his brother.

Connor

Have you popped the question?

Evan

Not yet.

Connor

Christmas Day is almost over.

Evan

She said that Christmas is sacred. Won’t let me add a new anniversary to the day.

Connor

Interesting woman you’re dating.

Evan

She’s practical and logical.