Page 75 of Fall With Me
Dawson pulls me in for a hug. “What about combining the two? Takingyourfamilyto Disneyland.”
My heart is like the warm buttery crumble on top of apple crisp. “I’d say a birthday couldn’t be better.”
“How many years do we have to save for it?”
My heart swells. He saidwe. “Four years.”
“Completely doable.”
Emotions burn my eyes. The image of me, Dawson, Finn, and potentially a little one in tow, all wearing Mickey ears, walking around the park makes my heart explode with joy and desire. Yes, it’s ridiculously soon to be planning a family and my birthday so far in advance, but the image of my future has always been fuzzy. Since meeting Dawson, every time we’re around each other, the picture gets clearer. And I see it now. The dream. A full life. A partner and children. “I’ll start saving.”
“Me too. Ready for the next question?”
“Yeah.”
“What’s your favorite number, and why?”
I let out a nervous chuckle. This is slightly embarrassing. “My favorite number is eleven because of Alex Smith, the Chiefs quarterback. He also played for Utah before getting drafted toyourteam. I had a major crush on him when I was sixteen and seventeen.”
Dawson throws his head back, laughing like what I confessed is the funniest thing he’s ever heard.
“It’s not that funny,” I defend.
“Uh, yeah, it totally is.”
“What’syourfavorite number, and why?” I demand, ready for Dawson to quit making fun of me. Teen crushes are no joke. There’s a part of me who still thinks Alex is amazing and if I ever get the chance to meet him, I’m going to fan-girl harder than a Swiftie.
“Five, because that’s how many people are in my family.”
“That’s sweet.”
“I know.” He grins. “Next question. What’s your favorite animal?”
“We talked about this already. Cheetahs. You never shared yours though.”
He blinks.
“Is there a problem? You asked this question.”
He nods slowly. “Yeah, I didn’t think this through.”
Is he about to tell me an embarrassing story? I’m so ready for it. “Spill it.”
“Pandas.”
“Awww,” I say. Why was he afraid to tell me? “Pandas are flippin’ adorable! Have you seen the videos of them playing in the snow? They’re so cute!” I gasp. “My nickname for you makesmore sense than ever! Is that why you didn’t want me to know?”
“Poooossibly.”
I tickle his side. “I love it! And you are never getting a different nickname.”
He acts put out, rolling his eyes for good measure. “It’s a good thing I like you.”
“I like you too, Smokey. Now, what’s the last question before you tell me your biggest fear?”
“What type of weather is your favorite?”
“It depends on the time of year and if I have to be anywhere.”
