Pete thought long and hard about the whole camping idea but he just couldn’t get comfortable with it. He was more the room service and spa amenities type. Finally he came up with a compromise that he thought Marla would enjoy. He made reservations at some rural cabins about an hour south of Wynott. They still had all the necessary amenities, hot and cold running water, electricity, and flush toilets but in a rustic, wooded setting. Pete had secretly spoken to Betsy, arranging for Marla to take the weekend off. He even arranged for Lizzie to stay at Marla’s house, cover for Marla at the bakery, and take care of the dogs.
Pete watched Marla’s face light up when he walked into the bakery early Friday morning. God she was beautiful. His heart clutched hard in his chest as he sauntered toward her.
“Hey, what’s going on?” Marla smiled broadly at the surprise she had just been given. She noticed he was dressed in jeans and a t-shirt instead of the dress clothes he wore for work.
“I came to whisk you away on a romantic weekend. Are you game?” Marla stood there, stunned, as everyone laughed at her reaction. Marla hurriedly untied her apron and was around the counter and in his arms in a heartbeat. She didn’t care that everyone started clapping happily, she was in heaven and in the arms of the man she loved, heart and soul.
“But what about the bakery and the dogs and…stuff?”
“All taken care of. Betsy and I worked it all out.” “You don’t have to ask me twice. When do we leave?” “Right now. I packed your bag and made arrangements for Lizzie to fill in for you and take care of the house and dogs. You’re a free woman for the next three days, do you think you can handle it?” Pete laughed. “Definitely! Lead the way!” Marla turned back and waved to everyone, mouthing a big ‘thank you’ as she walked out the door.