“No.” She laughs. “I’m just thinking about how life doesn’t always turn out the way we think it will.”
“You’re right. But sometimes it’s better. There have been a lot of changes, but do you know what won’t?” I wait for her to shake her head. “You, and how you fit into our lives. No matter how much time passes, you’re still our Kenna.” My lips tilt in a smile.
“You’re a good man, Rip Callahan.”
“Come on. Keep them coming.” I motion for her to keep the compliments heading my way, making her laugh.
“Thank you. Sometimes I get in my own head.”
“We still on for tomorrow?”
“Yes.”
Leaning in close, I press my lips to hers in a soft caress. “I’m looking forward to it.”
“Thanks for the ride,” she says breathlessly, reaching for the handle. I watch her walk to the front porch and disappear behind the door before pulling out of the driveway.
Chapter 10
McKenna
Standing in my bedroom after a quick shower, I’m trying to decide what to wear. I don’t know what tonight is. I don’t know if it’s just two old friends getting together, or if it’s more. It feels like more. However, that could only be my perception of wanting it to be more.
Glancing at the clock, I see that I have exactly fifteen minutes before Rip is supposed to be here. If I know anything about him, even the younger version, he’s always punctual. Reaching into my drawer, I pull out a lacey red bra and panty set. They’re sexy, and they make me feel that way. It doesn’t matter that no one gets to see them but me. They do their job of boosting my confidence. In the back of my mind, I can’t help but wonder if maybe tonight someone will see them? If maybe Rip will see them. I quickly shake off the idea.
I don’t want to look like I tried too hard, yet I don’t want to look frumpy either. Gah! Why am I making this so damn difficult? Flipping through the hangers, I decide on a sundress. It’s a dark brown with small white embroidered flowers on the bust and at the hem of the bottom. It hits just above my knees. Slipping it over my head, I look at my reflection, releasing my hair from the pin it’s been held up in all day. I run my hands through my locks, pleased they look tousled and sexy. Perfect. At least my hair is cooperating.
The doorbell rings. Shit. “Mac!” Grams calls out. “Rip’s here.”
“I’ll be right down!” I call back to her.
Grabbing my mascara, I add a quick coat before tossing it back onto my dresser. Next is a quick layer of shimmer gloss to my lips, and I call it good. I don’t have time for more accessories. Instead, I grab a pair of white flip-flops from the bottom of my closet and slide my feet into them as I unplug my phone and grab my purse. This is as good as it gets. With a deep breath, I open my bedroom door and descend the stairs. I don’t know if this is a date, but it sure feels like one.
“There she is,” Gramps says.
All eyes turn to me. Rip’s eyes turn to me. My body heats as he slowly takes his time looking over every inch of me. When his eyes finally meet mine, a slow sexy smile tilts his lips. “Kenna, you look beautiful.” He steps forward and offers me his hand, assisting me with the final step. Not that I needed the help, but I’m not going to turn down a chance to touch him. “These are for you.” He presents me with a small bouquet of wildflowers I hadn’t noticed.
“Thank you. You didn’t have to do that.”
“Let the man buy you flowers,” Gramps says with a wink.
“I’ll just put them in some water,” I tell him.
“I’ve got that.” Gram steps forward and takes the flowers from my hands.
“I guess I’ll see you two in a little while,” I tell my grandparents.
“Make sure she relaxes. She works too hard,” Gramps tells Rip. “Just let us know if you’re not coming home.”
“I’ll be h—” I start when Rip talks over me.
“I’ll be sure to have her let you know. She’s safe with me,” he tells them.
“Oh, we know that,” Gram says. Her smile is blinding. “You two kids have fun.”
“I guess that’s our cue to leave,” I say with a nervous chuckle.
“After you.” Rip places his hand on the small of my back and leads me to the front door and out to his truck.
“How was your day?” I ask once he’s behind the wheel and we're headed to his place. It’s not even a two-minute drive, but I need the distraction of conversation. I can still feel the heat of his touch on my back.