“Got it.”
He demonstrated more about how to fly the plane.
She felt more at ease. “You’re really good at explaining all of this.”
“Now, are you ready to try again?”
“Absolutely.”
“This is more fun than Grant’s boat, I bet.”
“You’re not tricking me. I’m too smart for that.”
“I can see that.” He smiled. “Your turn. Just keep it between the lines.”
She nodded and grabbed the yoke.
He removed his hands from his yoke. “She’s all yours.”
“I’m flying the plane. Oh my God, this is so fun.” She watched the dials, making little corrections whenever needed.
“Great job, sweetheart.”
“I had no idea this would be so much fun. How hard is it to get a pilot’s license?”
“Not hard at all. If you’re serious, I can teach you. I actually have my instructor’s license.”
“No wonder you’re so good at teaching this stuff. How do you fit it in with your ranching and raising the boys?”
“I only teach friends and family, sweetheart. And I would love to teach you. You’re definitely a natural. Are you ready for me to take back over?”
“Yes. Although I love it, I am still a little nervous. Ready to relax and enjoy the view.”
He took over the controls.
Fluffy white clouds floated beside them. They talked about many things, but mostly about the boys. Every story he told about them just reinforced to her how much he loved them.
“Even though biologically Tobias and Seth are my sons and Heath and Nate are Grant’s, to each of us they are all our sons. No difference between any of them in our eyes. Since the accident, we’ve raised all four of them together. When you take care of children—making sure they are fed, getting up with them when they have a sore throat and stuffy nose, even changing dirty diapers—they just become your own. Does any of that make sense?”
“Every word makes sense, Greg. You’re both wonderful dads. I’ve only been around the boys a little, and I already love them.”
“I know you do, and they love you, too.” He reached over and squeezed her hand, which sent a spark up her arm.
She smiled. “Keep your hand on the yoke, mister. I don’t want us crashing.”
“I promise, we won’t. Actually, see that up ahead? That’s our destination.”
She saw they were approaching a city. “And what’s its name?”
“Reno,” he said. “I’m taking you to the best five-star restaurant in the state.”
“Oh my God. That’s why we’re both dressed up.”
“Yes, it is. And you look stunning.”
“So do you, Greg. Very handsome.”
He landed the plane at a small private airport, which was owned by a friend of his and Grant’s.