Page 117 of Can't Kiss the Chef

The last question I ask isn’t one that I had on my list. It’s one that’s been spurred on by the conversations we’ve had during the interview.

“This is the last one. What advice do you have for your future grandchildren?”

“Oh wow. That’s a good question.”

He takes a deep breath gathering his thoughts before he continues.

“Always apologize. You might think too much time has passed or that the other person might not be open to hearing you out. But they do.”

He looks up at me.

“After you do that you give yourself the opportunity to grow some beautiful relationships. Ones that mean everything to you.”

I hastily get up from my seat and in two steps I have my dad wrapped in a hug.

“I love you Dad. I’m so happy you came back into my life.”

“Thank you for allowing me to be part of your life.”

46

Lola

Byron:

Good luck today Pips. I love you and I know you are going to do absolutely amazing.

The text came through when I got into my car this morning. Last night I decided to withdraw from the show. It didn’t feel right to be at the barn all day while my boyfriend and his family are held up in a hospital room.

I also just want to spend time with Byron’s family. His parents have treated me like their daughter from the moment I met them. They have become family and family is there for each other in times like these.

When I get to Arie’s room I knock on the door frame before peaking my head in.

“Everyone decent in here?”

Three pairs of eyes dart to me. All growing big when they realize who is standing in the doorway.

“What are you doing here?” Byron’s voice is devoid of emotion.

“I came to see my favorite people.”

“What about your horse show?”

“I withdrew from the show. It was more important to me to be here with you.” I say as a walk further into the frigid hospital room. “There will be more shows but I don’t want to miss out on this time with your family.”

Byron squints, trying to figure out if this is really what I want. Without any forewarning he reaches out and pulls me into a hug that’s suffocating, in the best way.

“I’m so happy you’re here.” He uses his thumb and forefinger to tilt my head until my eyes meet his.

“I need you here,” he says earnestly.

“Well I made last night’s dinner into subs on garlic bread. Thought you guys might need some real food.”

Byron moves me so my back is to his chest and we are facing his parents.

“Lola brought us some leftovers.” He holds up the cooler bag.

“Lola, you really know how to lift a guy’s spirits,” Aries tells me shifting up in his hospital bed. Heat flushes my cheeks. I’m not used to compliments from the adults in my life.

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