Page 69 of Summer Escape
He raised a brow. "You want kids?"
"I've always thought I'd have them eventually. You know, when I meet someone and get married. It's a natural progression. But after seeing you and Hayden together, it makes me want that for myself sooner than I was thinking." I couldn't believe I'd admitted that out loud.
He inclined his head. "You're good with her."
"She's a teenager. Babies and toddlers are different." I racked my brain for any experience with babies, and I couldn't find any. I was an only child and the youngest in my extended family.
"I wasn't always there for everything, but I think the teenager attitude has been the most difficult to navigate. I have a feeling it gets harder as they get older." He pulled into the lot where a teenager was directing traffic. The lot was filling up.
"This is a great turnout," I said, happy for Grandma. "I think they're becoming known for putting on great parties."
"My brother declared his love for Hazel at the last one. Maybe people are hoping to witness something like that."
"Aren't most of your brothers spoken for at this point?" I asked.
"Shepard and Dalton are still single as far as I know."
We got out and followed the groups of people walking around back where the main event was taking place. The large deck was still lined with rocking chairs but now had tables for drinks and food and a few tables to sit and enjoy the view.
There were groups of people spread out across the lawn. Games had been strategically set up, and several groups had brought their own chairs and blankets to enjoy the festivities. There was cornhole, horseshoes, and even croquet. Everyone looked like they were having a good time.
Grandma stood with her friends on the deck with drinks with umbrellas in them. When I approached, she broke away from them and hugged me. "I'm so happy you're here."
Then Grandma turned to Marshall. "You must be so proud of your daughter. She's done an amazing job. She's so responsible and conscientious."
"I am," Marshall said, accepting her hug.
"Are you enjoying your time in Sanibel?" she asked both of us.
I looked at Marshall, trying to send the signal that it would be a good time to broach the subject of the cottage rental.
"I am actually. I was hoping I could convince you to extend my stay," Marshall said smoothly.
Grandma sobered. "What were you thinking?"
"I'm looking for a beach house for sale, but I want to wait until the right one comes on the market. I know that's not a great answer, but it's the best I can do for now. I'd love any extra time you could give me."
Grandma turned her attention to me. "What about you? What are your plans?"
"I'm due to go back to Jacksonville soon." I probably should have looked for a place to stay. I didn't want to think too hard about why I was avoiding it. Signing a lease seemed permanent, and I wasn't ready to make any big decisions.
Everything would change. My time wouldn't be my own. I'd be expected to work certain hours in the office. I was starting to think that working for myself would be a nicer option. I just wasn't convinced I could support myself and find good health insurance. There were so many what-ifs.
"I certainly don't mind if you extend your stay. It's usually quiet in the fall. I just would have thought you might want to stay there together," Grandma said finally.
"Why would we want to do that?" I asked before I thought about my answer.
Grandma leaned in. "I was hoping this would be a love match.
I waved a hand, my face flushing. "Oh, well, just because we were together years ago, doesn't mean?—"
Marshall put his arm around me. "I need a bit more time. She's just come out of a bad relationship and needs to warm up to the idea of us." Then Marshall winked at Grandma, and I was more confused than ever.
Was this a ploy to convince Grandma to rent to him, or was he actually serious?
"Don't let this one go," Grandma said to me with a wink before Phyllis called her over to talk to someone.
I smacked Marshall's stomach. "What was that?"
