Chapter Thirteen – Haven
Chapter Thirteen
HAVEN
I walked into my mom’s kitchen and drew in a deep breath. Something smelled heavenly as I removed my light jacket and placed it on the hook by the door. Late November in Hamilton saw temperatures in the mid to lower fifties. It wouldn’t be long before I broke out my full winter gear.
“Mom?”
My mother walked into the room wearing an apron. It took everything I had not to start laughing.
“Hey, sweetheart,” she said with a huge smile before kissing me on the cheek. “What brings you by?”
“I was in the area and thought I would stop by. I have some news about the dog park as well.”
She turned on the oven light, bent down, and peered inside.
“What are you making?” I asked.
“Spaghetti casserole.”
My brows rose. “Wow, look at you being all Betty Crocker.”
“She bakes, sweetheart.”
Laughing, I reached for a cup and filled it with water. “Did you get off early?”
She frowned. “Yes. I’ve been working later each day trying to learn everything, and one of the doctors told me I needed to watch my time.”
Leaning against the counter, I said, “Did you ask about insurance now that you’re the office manager?”
“They said I have a ninety-day probation period before it will kick in.”
“Are you serious? But I thought Jane said once you were promoted, they would offer you insurance.”
She reached for my hand and gave it a light squeeze. “Don’t get worked up, sweetheart. It will all work out. I’ve gone this long without insurance, and so have you. You really need to look into that.”
After letting my hand go, she turned and walked over to get some plates. “Staying for dinner?”
“Of course I’m staying.”
“Wonderful. I’m dying to hear about the dog park.”
My eyes searched my mother’s face, and for the first time I noticed how tired she looked. “Mom, are you okay with bills and everything?”
Her head snapped up sharply. “What?”
I gave a slight shrug. “I just want to make sure you’re not struggling. I’ve got some money–”
Holding up her hand, she said, “Stop. I’m doing fine, and the last thing I would ever do is take money from my daughter who is about to embark on a huge dream of her own. You’ll need all the money you saved up, young lady. The last thing I want to see is you get in over your head.”
“That’s one of the reasons I came to see you tonight. I found a new contractor, and he is doing some of the work pro bono.”
She paused and looked at me. “What?”
I smiled and nodded. “Yes! He said he likes to pick a project to give back to the community once a year. He contracts out some of the labor, but some of it he does in-house, and he isn’t going to charge us for that! Sophia and I are over the moon. This is going to change everything, and we can even offer less for the memberships now and be able to do open days where people can just come and bring their dogs and not have to pay for a day pass or membership.”
My mom looked skeptical and folded her arms over her chest. “What have I always told you, Haven? If something is too good to be true, then it is.”
“I know you’ve said that, but, Mom, there are people out there who do things like this.” My mind drifted to Nate and his donation. I couldn’t help but smile. “Kind hearts and all of that.”
“That is a lot of work and time to give away for free.”
I nodded. “It is, I agree, and I struggled with accepting it at first, but then Nate and I talked, and he made me realize I deserve this. I deserve to have someone believe in what I’m doing and want to be a part of it.”
My mother’s face softened. “Of course you do, Haven. I didn’t mean that at all.”
I waved off her worry. “I know you didn’t.”
“Wait, did you say Nate? Nate Shaw?”
Nodding, I felt myself smile. “We recently started dating.”
“How recent?”
I shrugged. “Last weekend.”
Her brows slowly went up. “Really? Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Um, we just started dating, Mom.”
She smiled. “You used to have the biggest crush on that boy once upon a time.”
I wanted to correct my mother and tell her he wasn’t a boy in any way, but I decided to keep that to myself.
“Yes, well, we can thank a flat tire for us getting together.”
Mom looked confused. “What do you mean?”
I smiled as the memory of that stormy night came back to me. As I told my mother, my entire body felt warm.
“I was leaving the Shaw Ranch one night and got a flat tire. It was the night of that bad storm. Nate came across me broke down and offered to help. The rest is history.”
She huffed. “Never thought I would see that boy settle down with one girl. Are you sure you can trust him, Haven?”
I reached for her arm and gave it a light pat. “Yes, Mom. And don’t you also say never judge a book by its cover? Nate is an amazing man, and if I told you what he has done for me…well…let’s just say I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. I have to keep pinching myself because it doesn’t feel real. I feel like all my dreams are coming true, and honestly, in the short time we have been seeing each other, Nate has been a part of those dreams being able to come true.”
She walked over and pulled me to her, hugging me. “No one deserves that more than you, Haven. I am so proud of you.”
Once we sat down at the table to eat, I told her about Doug and Nate and all that had happened in the last few days.
“How wonderful that things are turning out as they are, Haven! I know Doug. He’s a patient of ours. He did a playground in town for free one year. It turned out beautiful. I’m not the least surprised he would also take on this project. And how amazing you can open it to those who cannot afford the membership. I know having to charge the membership was a hard decision for you to make.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
Mom looked back at me and smiled. “So, Nate Shaw, huh?”
I felt my cheeks heat. “Yes, Nate Shaw.”
“I know you said you just started dating, but how serious is it?” she asked.
I shrugged. “I think it’s progressing along nicely.”
“I’m so happy for you, sweetheart. I know how much you liked Nate and what he did for you with your father.”
A feeling of sadness swept through the air, and I decided it was time to change the direction this conversation was going.
Taking my napkin, I wiped my mouth and set it on the table. “Nate has invited us to Thanksgiving at his grandmother’s house tomorrow.”
My mother stared at me for a few moments before saying, “He did?”
“Why are you frowning?” I asked.
Mom cleared her throat. “I’m sorry, sweetheart; I didn’t mean to frown. I guess I’m just surprised. What made him invite us if you’ve just started dating?”
“Well, he invited me, and I told him I would most likely be having you over to my apartment. He asked me if you would like to come as well. After all, you are good friends with his mother, Mom.”
My mother nodded. “Yes, Timberlynn and I go back many years. Since you kids were in elementary school.”
“Mom, there isn’t anything behind the invitation. I think Nate simply wants to be with me and he knows family is important.”
My mother smiled and said, “I think it’s a lovely idea. I’ll ask Timberlynn if she wants us to bring anything. Come to think of it, I haven’t spoken to her in a couple of months. We need to catch up.”
I nearly exploded with happiness while at the same time sighing in relief. “I’m so glad you agreed to go. This means the world to me. I care deeply for Nate, and I know things are new between us, but…well…it means a lot to me that we can all be together on Thanksgiving. I’m sure it will help Stella as well.”
“I haven’t seen Stella in years. I did send her a card after Ty passed away. I can’t imagine what she is going through. My heart hurts for her. For the whole family.”
“I still can’t believe he’s gone. He was such a nice guy.”
“That he was. So, are you up for dessert?” Mom asked.
“Wait, you made dessert as well?” I asked with a giggle. “Now I can call you Better Crocker.”
Mom stood. “I did, indeed. Lemon bars. You stay here and I’ll get them cut up and bring them out.”
After setting down a plate of lemon bars and handing me a small plate, Mom smiled and asked, “How is the sex?”
“Mom!”
“What?” she asked, all innocent. “It’s a valid question.”
“Maybe from my best friend, but not my mother!”
She gave a one-shoulder shrug. “I’ve seen those Shaw men. I’m going to assume it’s good. Otherwise, your face wouldn’t be so red.”
“My face is red because my mother just…” I lowered my voice. “…asked me how the sex was with my boyfriend.”
She winked. “Gotcha.”
“No, I don’t think you do!”
“I was a girl your age once, I get it. I hope he pleasures you first. It’s important that you have a lover who doesn’t just think of himself.”
Dropping back in my chair, I stared at my mother. “Please tell me you’re not going to tell me about your past lovers.”
She laughed. “I wouldn’t do that to you, darling. But, when I was your age–”
I quickly stood. “No. Just no! I’m going to do the dishes.”
The rest of the time was spent with my mother helping her clean up while she told me about her new job promotion, and how she was slowly learning everything. I watched as she spoke and wondered if she ever got lonely. She’d gone out a few times since the divorce, but nothing serious. I suddenly had the urge to see Nate. I took my phone out and sent him a text.
Me: I’m having dinner at my mom’s house. She said yes to Thanksgiving. I’m going to be heading home soon.
It didn’t take Nate long to reply.
Nate: I’m so glad she said yes! I’ll let Grams and my mother know. Leaving the ranch now and heading home. Why don’t you come here instead?
Smiling, I peeked up to see my mother reading something on her phone.
Me: I’ll swing by and pack a bag. I’ll text you once I’m on the way to your house.
Nate: Perfect. Be careful driving. See you soon.
I set my phone on the table and gathered the dessert plates. Mom stopped me. “No, leave those, Haven.”
“Mom, you cooked. Let me clean up all the way for you.”
She sat as I finished up the last few dishes.
“Timberlynn texted and asked if I was planning on coming for Thanksgiving.”
I glanced at her over my shoulder. “And did you tell her yes?”
She smiled. “I did. I asked if we could bring something, and she said no. Then texted back and said to bring sneakers and dress comfortable.”
I looked at her and frowned. “What?”
With a nod, she looked back at her phone. “What in the world do they do on Thanksgiving?”
Shrugging, I folded the dish towel and set it on the counter. “I guess we’ll find out tomorrow!”
Before I got out of my car, Nate appeared on the front porch of his house. The smile on his face made my stomach flip with anticipation. I quickly grabbed my purse and bag and got out of the car.
“Want to park in the garage?”
I glanced at my old car. “I think it will be okay.”
Nate met me halfway and took my bag before leaning down and kissing me.
“I missed you.”
“It’s only been a day since I saw you.”
He smiled again, and my stomach felt like butterflies were in there. “I know, it’s crazy. I never in my life imagined I’d be feeling this way.”
Pulling me into his arms, he kissed me again.
“Well, if this is how you act when we’re apart for a day, what would it be like longer?”
Nate laughed, took my hand, and led me to the front door. “Let’s not find out.”
Once inside, Nate helped me with my jacket and hung it up. “Did you bring a heavier coat? It’s supposed to snow tonight.”
“No, I need to unpack all of my winter clothes.”
After taking my bag and bringing it to his room, Nate met me in the kitchen where I was peeking at the soup he had on the stove.
“What are you making?”
“Beef stew, my mom’s recipe.”
I drew in a deep breath and moaned. “That smells heavenly.”
Nate winked at me, and my heart jumped in my chest. “I was about to put the rolls in the oven.”
“Is there anything I can do?” I asked as I looked around the kitchen.
“You can go get into something comfortable. I know you already ate, but after I eat, I thought maybe we could watch a movie.”
“You’re sure you don’t need help?”
Nate shook his head. “I’ll let you pick out the movie.”
“Are you sure about that?”
He shut the oven door and turned to face me. “You’re going to pick out a romance movie, right?”
I felt my cheeks heat. “I was thinking Hallmark. All the Christmas movies are playing.”
Nate closed his eyes and let out a sigh. When he opened them, I was trying not to laugh. “Fine. But if you tell anyone, especially Josh, that I watched Hallmark, I will deny it until my dying day.”
Jumping in excitement, I kissed him and said, “Deal!”
I spun around and quickly made my way to Nate’s bedroom. He had placed my bag on his bed. Unzipping it, I took out the clothes I had brought and the pajamas. I wasn’t sure why I brought those since I was hoping to be naked and snuggled up next to Nate all night. I also wasn’t sure what to wear for Thanksgiving, so I didn’t pack anything, figuring I would be leaving to pick up my mother anyway.
The small bathroom bag was at the bottom of the bag. I took it out and headed to the bathroom. I set it on the counter. Putting it on Nate’s counter felt weird. I didn’t want him to think I was trying to move my things in. With this relationship still so new and my worry that it was too good to be true, I wasn’t even sure I could take anything out and leave it here.
I looked in the mirror and frowned. The dark circles under my eyes showed where I hadn’t slept the night before. I felt happier than ever, yet something was nagging at the back of my mind, and I wasn’t sure what it was. I left the bag sitting toward the back of the counter, but didn’t take anything out.
Making my way back into the bedroom, I pulled out a pair of sweats and a long-sleeve T-shirt from Glacier Park. I pulled my hair up into a ponytail, and last but not least, took off my shoes and put on my favorite warm and fuzzy socks.
After making my way back to the kitchen, I found it empty. “Nate?”
The rolls were in the oven, the beef stew simmering, and no Nate.
I decided to get everything out for the stew. Bowl, spoon, and butter for the rolls. It smelled so good I decided to have a small bowl myself, even though I had already eaten at my mother’s. The sound of the front door shutting caused me to look over my shoulder.
“Were you outside?” I asked.
Nate looked at me. “Yeah, I wanted to check on something outside.”
I nodded. “Is the temperature dropping?”
He walked up and let his eyes roam over me. “Yes, it’s for sure colder outside. You look adorable.”
Glancing down at what I was wearing, I screwed up my face. “I do?”
Nate nodded, took my hand, and pulled me to him. Dropping my hand, he cupped my face and stared into my eyes.
“I’m sorry I pushed you away for so long. I was a stupid idiot.”
My heart started to beat faster. “It doesn’t matter. All that matters is now.”
He dropped his forehead to mine and let out a soft breath.
“Nate? Is everything okay?”
When he said nothing, I drew back and looked up at him. “Nate?”
He smiled. “Yeah, everything is fine.” He saw the two bowls. “Are you still hungry?”
Smiling, I replied, “It smelled so good I decided to try it!”
“I’ll get the rolls and drinks, and you dish out the stew.”
We worked silently as I ladled some stew while Nate buttered some of the rolls and put them on a small plate. As I brought our bowls to the kitchen island, Nate placed two glasses of water down.
“Do you want another drink besides water?”
I shook my head as I slid onto a stool. “Water is perfect, thank you.”
Nate followed my lead and sat down.
“This smells so good, Nate.”
“Let’s just hope it tastes good. I’ve made it a dozen or so times, but it never seems to be as good as my mother’s. I follow the recipe, but something seems missing.”
I laughed as I blew on my stew and then tasted it. Closing my eyes, I let out a moan. “This is heavenly!”
Nate tasted it and shook his head. “It’s missing something.”
“A mother’s touch?” I asked with a smile.
He chuckled. “Maybe that’s what it is.”
“It’s like when someone else makes a sandwich like a BLT or something. It is the best sandwich you’ve ever had, even if it is just a BLT.”
Pointing to me, he said, “Yes! That is exactly like that.”
“I think it is amazing. Warms me up as well.”
He took another bite. “It is pretty damn good.”
We ate in silence for a few minutes before Nate broke it.
“How are things coming along with the dog park? I know Doug just came on board, but do you have a start date?”
I leaned back in my chair, full of the stew and the roll I ate. “I think everything is finally set. The bank has all of Doug’s information now, and I think we’ll be ready to go in a couple of weeks. I’m just not sure how much we can get done with winter coming.”
“You’d be surprised by what they can do, even in the winter.”
“I hope everything goes okay. I have to admit, I’m nervous.”
Nate reached for my hand. “It’s okay to be nervous. I’d be worried if you weren’t.”
“Thank you, for everything you have done. You’ll never know what it means to me.”
Looking down at our clasped hands, Nate softly said, “The feelings that I feel for you, Haven, is nothing I’ve ever experienced before. When you’re not with me, I can’t stop thinking about you. I never again want to ever bring you pain or sadness. Ever.”
“You won’t.”
Nate closed his eyes as he spoke. “When you’re with me, I feel like I can…breathe. I don’t know if that makes sense.”
I could feel tears burning at the back of my eyes.
“Life just seems to make sense now, and the only thing I can think about when we’re apart is you. What are you doing? Are you safe walking the dogs all alone? What can I do to make your dreams come true?”
A sob slipped free as I slid off the stool, bringing Nate with me. “You have no idea what you’ve done for me, Nate.”
“You would have done the dog park without me.”
I shrugged. “Well, I don’t ever want to find out.”
“My biggest regret is the time we lost out on because of me.”
Placing my hand on his face, I drew in a slow, deep breath and exhaled. There were so many things I wanted to say to him, but I wasn’t sure where to even start. I’d loved this man for so long, and a part of me had given up ever being with him. Now he stood before me, baring his heart and soul, and the only thing I wanted to do was tell him I felt the same exact way.
Placing my hands on his chest, I stared at one of the buttons on his shirt. “I read a quote a few years back from Zora Neale Hurston. ‘Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.’ I never really knew what that quote meant. To me, if you loved someone, you screamed it from the top of your lungs. But, that’s not how love works, and the push and pull of us over the years left me even more confused.”
He went to say something, and I pressed my finger to his lips. “I love you, Nate Shaw. I’ve loved you for as long as I can remember, and I only want to focus on our future. You and me and where this takes us. Because I honestly cannot imagine ever returning to a life without you in it.”
Before I could say anything else, Nate lifted me into his arms and took me straight to his bed, leaving everything a mess in the kitchen.