Cody didn’t say a word until she finished. “I don’t want you to go,” he whispered, “but I can’t stand in your way if that’s your dream. You’re right, you don’t have a reason to stay, without family to hold you back, but maybe you and I could plant some seeds and see if together we could find some roots.”

In that moment, Stevie listened to her heart and made her decision. “I’m going to call Rodney tomorrow and tell him that I appreciate his offer, but I’m staying in Honey Grove. I’ve been promised a fourth date, and that burger and fries means a lot to me.”

Cody pushed back his chair, rounded the table, and tipped up her chin with his fist. The kiss was both sweet and hot at the same time, and it sealed forever the decision she had made. No matter what happened, she was determined that she would never look back with wonder if she’d made the right choice.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Three

Stevie’s lips still felt warm from Cody’s kiss when Mia knocked on the door and yelled that she was bringing peach cobbler for their dessert. She set the plastic container on the table and pulled out a chair for herself. “We had lots of leftovers, and I know you like any kind of cobbler, Uncle Cody. Looks like I timed it just right.” She reached out and picked up a carrot with her fingers and popped it into her mouth. “I didn’t have supper, and I’m starving. Beau is picking me up in…” She checked the time on her phone. “Thirty minutes. He’s so sweet. He asked me where I wanted to go, and what movie I wanted to see. When I was with Ricky, we always did what he wanted to do. I know! I know! I shouldn’t compare them. They’re as different as a fresh cow patty and a diamond ring, but it’s tough not to, when Ricky is the only other guy I’ve been with or dated.”

“I’m going to put off having my dessert for a little while and go check on Dad,” Cody said. “After that long trip, I should be taking his vital signs every day. You ladies can have some time to discuss the dating game while I’m gone.” He pushed back his chair and stood up.

“You think all we talk about is you guys when you’re not around?” Stevie asked.

“I hope so.” Cody flashed a smile on his way out the door. “Be back in a few minutes.”

“I’m glad that Poppa isn’t any worse, but I was hoping that specialist would tell him he was getting better,” Mia sighed.