It’s a relief to know her mom is on board, but I still can’t read John. He’s typically quiet, especially compared to Jackson, but this seems more intense than usual.

“I made lasagna,” Mila announces. “I hope you’re both hungry.”

“Sounds amazing,” I say.

“Yeah, Mom. Can’t wait. I’m starving.” Maize looks around. “Did Kenzie already leave for work?”

“She did,” John mumbles, not making eye contact with either of us.

A knot forms in my throat, and I can’t seem to swallow it down. “What would you like to drink?” Mila asks.

“I got it.” Maize gets up and pours us all glasses of iced sweet tea. I drink it down, wondering what John’s really thinking. Maize helps set the table, then brings the salad, and eventually, the lasagna is set in the middle. John and Mila sit across from us as we pass serving spoons around and fill our plates family style.

“So, you’re now dating my daughter?” John finally says once we all have our food.

“Yes, sir,” I confirm.

“How long has this been going on?” he asks.

“Dad. That’s really none of your business, is it?” Maize snaps. I can tell she’s getting frustrated, and I try to put myself in his shoes. I understand his response.

Mila places her hand on John’s lap. I’m sure to help calm his unease.

“You’re much older, Gavin. Do you plan on stayin’ in town?” John continues with questions.

“If we’re counting, Gavin’s about ten years older,” Maize answers for me. “That’s no secret. Older means more mature, and he’s not a fuckboy like all the other men around here who only want me for one thing.”

“Maize, language,” Mila says.

“I’ve thought about my age more times than I can count. Maize’s mature and thinks on a higher level. She knows what she wants in life, and I support that one hundred percent. And yes, I plan to stay here indefinitely. I love the ranch, and I love your family. I’ve already lived a full life and have traveled around the world and have no desire to go back to that. I’m ready to settle down, start a family, and do what I love, which is training.”

Mila looks at me with adoration and smiles. “That’s nice, Gavin. There’s something magical about this place. It’s one reason I moved here, well and because my grandmother lived here, but I fell in love with the ranch and John, and you too, Maize. It was home in my heart,” Mila tells me. “Seems like it’s yours too.”