Page 34 of Whisk Me Away

A look of shock crossed her features before she shut it down. I watched as her chest rose and fell, almost like she couldn’t quite catch her breath.

"Like a date?" Her words come out low.

"Like a date,” I repeat her words, shoving my hands in my front pockets.

After another few minutes, Karis finally met my gaze, and for a half second, the thought that she might not say yes flashed through my mind. I reach up and swivel the hat on my head to face backward, then grab the back of my neck with my hand.

“Sure," she finally said, putting me out of my misery.

I blew out the breath I hadn’t realized I'd been holding before looking up to see her striking green eyes.

“I’ll see you in the morning around 8,” I said.

Her eyebrows shot up, a look of surprise taking over her face. "Tomorrow?" She asked.

"That a problem?" I asked confidently while shooting her my best grin.

Karis took a few deep breaths before meeting my gaze.

"No problem at all. You can pick me up from my parents’ house. I’m still staying there until I find a place of my own,” she nodded her head, giving me a small smile.

"See you soon,” I lifted my head as I turned and headed for the door.

I got her to agree to a date. Now, I just needed to figure out where to take her.

CHAPTER 22

BRANT

Pulling up outside the Thompsons' farmhouse, I felt a surge of nervous energy mixed with excitement. Today was the culmination of hours spent meticulously planning our date. When I got home from the station last night, I stayed up late planning every little detail, and I couldn't wait to see her reaction. The Falls, hidden away, held a special place in my heart, and I couldn’t wait to share that place with her. The Falls were a well known tourist attraction and the primary reason our town got its name Ashwood Falls, but there was a trail I liked to take that led up the backside of the waterfalls. It ended in a spot that was secluded.

Knowing Karis would appreciate a good meal during our adventure, I stopped at Sunny's diner to pick up her favorite food. Carefully packing it into a backpack along with a blanket and an extra jacket, I wanted to ensure she was comfortable and didn't get too cold while we were out. February mornings in Tennessee could be chilly, but I was prepared to keep her warm throughout our time together.

As I approach the front door, I couldn’t help but feel a flutter of anticipation. Today was Saturday, the perfect opportunity to whisk Karis away from the bakery and her family's struggles and into nature's beauty and peace. I did my best thinking and talking with God when I'm out there.

I hadn't heard an update on Barbra lately. She had stayed pretty secluded in their house except for the weekly appearance at church every Sunday morning. I couldn’t imagine what it’d be like to have to watch one of your parents battle cancer. I wish I could take it away from Karis and relieve the burden she was undoubtedly carrying. Knowing that's not something I could do, I planned to give her today, a day spent in God's creation, getting to know each other more.

I couldn’t wait to see the smile on her face when she realizes where we're headed and how much thought I've put into making this day unforgettable for her. Taking a deep breath, I knocked on the door, ready to sweep her off her feet and embark on our adventure together.

I was met with a warm but slightly guarded expression as Pastor Walter opened the door.

"Good morning, Pastor Walter," I greet him with a respectful nod. "Is Karis ready?"

Pastor Walter's hesitation was palpable as he regarded me before responding. “Morning, Brant. Yes, she's upstairs. She should be down in a minute."

"Thank you, sir," I gave him a reassuring smile, though I could sense his concern lingering beneath the surface.

Just then, the sound of footsteps on the staircase interrupted our stand-off. Karis appeared at the front door, slipping under her dad's arm, which was still holding onto the door frame. She was wearing a simple yet stunning outfit—a pair of black joggers that molded to her lean legs, paired with a mauve t-shirt and a pair of comfortable sneakers. Her hair was pulled back in a loose ponytail, and a hint of excitement dances in her eyes. She was holding a hoodie in one hand and her bag in the other.

As I took in her appearance, I couldn’t help but marvel at how stunningly beautiful she looked. Each day, it seemed, she became more radiant, more captivating in my eyes. It wasn’t just her physical beauty that drew me in, though that certainly didn’t hurt, but also her warmth, kindness, and passion for life. With a smile, I offered her my arm as she waved goodbye to her dad, who was still standing in the doorway.

"Be careful,” Pastor Walter called from behind us.

"We will," Karis called back with an exasperated sigh. "You'd think I was still in high school with how overprotective he's being,” she huffed out a laughed.

I led her to the passenger side of my SUV before opening the door and ushering her inside. Once she was seated with her seat belt on, I closed the door and rounded the hood to climb behind the wheel.

"So… where are we going?" She asked, practically bouncing in her seat. It seemed the hesitance from yesterday was long gone, and in its place was a nervous excitement.