The Unwanted Runaway

Oh” Baby

Anna’s POV

On a peaceful Saturday morning, I found myself ruminating about the awkward kiss with Carter the previous night. In an effort to clear my mind, I made my way to the barn, taking advantage of the early hour. As I tended to the horses and spent some quality time with them, I couldn't help but marvel at one of them, Peanut Butter, who had just given birth a few days ago. Her name brought a smile to my face, as I couldn't help but notice the trend of horses having funnier names than some of other animals like, dogs and cats I remember back in Los Angeles a neighbor named their English bulldogs Droolius Caesar and Hairy Paw-ter. And there was a crazy cat lady who lived in a apartment just her and like 20 different cats . Some of the cats names were Miss Pricy pants, captain sushi, Furious The pusss Destroyer. Honestly, it’s quite comical.

As I comforted Peanut Butter, I felt an unexpected bond with her. It was a refreshing and pleasant surprise. Her recovery after the complications during childbirth had been stressful, but I was glad to have been able to assist Jason and another ranch hand in caring for her. Surprisingly, she only wanted me around and wouldn't let any other guys near her. I guess I have a special touch with animals.

Jason had to guide me through the steps of helping Peanut Butter recover, and I have a feeling that's what made our bond even stronger. As I gently combed through her hair, I suddenly heard loud yelling coming from outside the barn. It was Denton and Sarah, as usual, having another heated argument. It's becoming quite uncomfortable with their constant bickering. Meanwhile, Peanut Butter was getting anxious from the commotion, so I started singing to her to soothe her nerves.

As I sang, I couldn't help but overhear Denton's frustration with Sarah for using his money without his permission. Apparently, she wanted to buy something for Seth, and when his real dad said no, she assumed it was okay to dip into Denton's funds. I'm still a bit confused about the whole situation, but it's not my place to interfere. My main concern was keeping Peanut Butter calm amidst the chaos. So, I sang louder, and it seemed to do the trick.

Buttercup was now relaxed, and I continued to sing as I brushed her hair. I know it may seem strange to some, but I even started talking to her. I know she can't talk back, but animals are excellent listeners. I confided in her about my dilemma with Carter, and it felt good to get it off my chest. Sometimes, it's easier to talk to animals than humans, especially on this ranch.

I walked back into the house, my stomach growled, reminding me that I hadn't eaten yet. I headed straight to the kitchen and opened the fridge, pulling out some fresh ingredients for tomato soup and grilled cheese. Just as I was about to start cooking, Mrs. Rose walked in and asked me what I was doing.

"Oh, hi Mrs. Rose," I greeted her warmly. "I was just about to make myself some lunch. Would you like some too?"

"That's why I came in here," she replied with a smile. "I was planning on making lunch for Luke and myself."

I quickly offered to make lunch for all of us, explaining that I didn't mind at all and would love to help out. Mrs. Rose was touched by my offer and thanked me, saying that I didn't have to do that.

"But I really want to," I insisted. "You're always busy cooking for everyone else, so let me take care of lunch today."

Mrs. Rose finally agreed and I promised to let her know when it was ready. I even offered to make enough for Nikki and bring it up to her room, since she's been resting and taking it easy. She’s been experiencing Braxton Hicks lately. So her doctor told her to rest . It was a surprise to see her taking a break, considering how hardworking she usually is on the orchard.

I smiled to myself as I started cooking, grateful for the opportunity to show my appreciation for Mrs. Rose and help out a little.

I just finished preparing our lunch and carefully set the grilled cheese and tomato soup on the table. After letting Mrs. Rose and Mr. Luke know that their meal was ready, I put together a tray of soup, sandwich, and herbal tea for Nikki and brought it up to her room. When I knocked on the door, she welcomed me in and asked about the tray.

I explained that I wanted to do something nice for her since she's on bedrest, and I thought it was a good way to give back since everyone here always takes care of me. She sat up against the headboard as I placed the tray on her lap, and she thanked me with a smile. I nodded and left the room, making my way back down to the kitchen to join Mrs. Rose and Mr. Luke at the table.

We ate in silence, enjoying the delicious lunch. Finally, Mr. Luke spoke up and praised my cooking skills, saying that Carter wasn't kidding. Mrs. Rose also chimed in, nodding in agreement. I couldn't help but blush and thank them for their kind words.

But Mrs. Rose insisted on doing the dishes since I had prepared lunch. I politely declined and assured her that I could handle it. With a smile, she and Mr. Luke left the kitchen and went back to the living room.

Lily comes running in the kitchen with Ej right behind her. Lily happily yells Anna” Anna” do you want to babysit tonight?

I look at her and ask why ?

Lily replies “My mommy said she was gonna ask you” so her and daddy can go on a date.

I looked at both of them and happily agreed to babysit.

Later that evening, I'm in the middle of a heated game of Candyland with my niece and nephew, when the door suddenly swings open. For a split second, I think it might be Evan and Mia coming home early, but to my surprise, it's Denton. He steps into the house, taking a quick look around before his eyes land on us at the coffee table. He gives me a slight smile before turning to EJ.

"Hey EJ, where's your dad?" Denton asks.

EJ responds, "Mom and dad went out for a couple hours."

Denton nods, "Alright, I'll catch him tomorrow or something." Before he can turn around, Lily chimes in, "Uncle Denton, please play Candyland with us!" She gives him a pleading look, and Denton seems to be deep in thought for a moment before replying, "Not right now, Lily. Maybe next time." Lily persists, using her best puppy dog eyes, and Denton finally gives in, moving from my lap to play a game with the kids.

After what seems like hours, we finally finish our game of Candyland. As we clean up, I ask Denton if he wants to stay and watch a movie with us. "We're going to watch the Princess Bride and have some popcorn," I offer. Denton doesn't hesitate, "Absolutely, I'll stay for both." He asks what we're watching, and Lily proudly announces, "It's a secret!" Denton looks at me with a puzzled expression, and Lily clarifies, "Anna's gonna let us watch the Princess Bride. Mommy won't let me watch it 'cause she says I'm too young." Denton shakes his head, but agrees to watch the movie.

Halfway through the movie, with popcorn spilling all over the couch, both kids are sound asleep. Denton picks up EJ and carries him to his room, tucking him into bed. I do the same with Lily, and as I clean up the mess, Denton comes over to help. "Do you ever dream about having a family of your own someday?" he asks me.

I pause for a moment before replying, "I used to." I look down at my engagement ring, still on my finger, and Denton notices. He watches as I touch the ring, and I explain, "One time in my life, I thought it was possible. I couldn't wait to become a mother. But now, I can't, and I'm okay with that."

Denton looks at me with a confused expression, but then asks, "If you were given the opportunity to be a parent, would you take it now?"

"In a heartbeat," I reply.

Denton smiles warmly at me, and I ask if he wants to finish watching the movie. Before he can answer, his phone rings. He looks at me and asks, "Anna, do you think you can watch Zek right now?"

I give him a puzzled look, "Why?"

He explains, "Ma and Dad are taking Nikki to the hospital. Her water just broke."

I let out a gasp, "Oh, shiit."