The Farmhand's Crush

Chapter: 16

The morning sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow across the room as I stirred awake. I blinked a few times, momentarily disoriented, before the memories of last night flooded back. Nic's arms around me, the sweet kisses we shared, it all made me smile.

I turned to find him still sleeping, his face relaxed and peaceful. I couldn't help but admire how handsome he looked, his tousled hair falling across his forehead. I gently nudged him awake, unable to resist the urge to see that smile.

"Hey, sleepyhead," I whispered to him.

He stirred, blinking groggily before a grin broke across his face. "Good morning, My Faye" he mumbled, his voice still thick with sleep.

"Good morning, Do you really want to sleep in, or should we get up and start the day?" I asked, my heart fluttering at the thought of spending more time with him.

"Let's get up, I promised to make breakfast" he replied, stretching his arms above his head, I could see all his mucles moving with his stretch, causing my heart to skip a beat.

After a quick shower, I joined Nic in the kitchen, where he was already busy making pancakes. The scent of warm batter filled the air, and my stomach rumbled in response.

"Smells amazing" I said, leaning against the counter, watching him work.

"Just wait until you try them," he said with a wink. "I might just win you over with my cooking skills if I haven't already."

We spent the next few moments chatting and laughing as he flipped pancakes and I set the table. I felt a sense of comfort in this, a feeling I hadn't anticipated but welcomed wholeheartedly.

Once breakfast was ready, we gathered around the table with his siblings, who were just waking up. Emma and Jake stumbled in, their hair messy and eyes still half-closed, while Lily was full of energy, already asking about riding plans for the day.

"Can we go to the river again?" she asked, her enthusiasm infectious. I wish I had her energy.

"I think that can be arranged," Nic replied, shooting me a glance that made my heart flutter. "But first, breakfast"

The meal was filled with chatter and laughter, and I found myself enjoying the playful banter between Nic and his siblings. They teased each other affectionately, sharing stories from their childhood, and I felt a warm sense of belonging as I became part of their morning routine.

After breakfast, we cleaned up together, and I felt the rhythm of family life around me. The easy way they worked together made me long for more moments like this. It made me really miss my parents.

Once we finished, Nic turned to me, his eyes sparkling. "Ready for some more adventure?"

"Absolutely! What's on the agenda?"

"Let's go for a hike. I know a great trail near here on the property that leads to a stunning view," he said, excitement lacing his voice.

As we geared up for the hike, I felt a rush of anticipation. Being outdoors with him, surrounded by nature, sounded perfect. We grabbed some water and snacks, then piled into his truck for the short drive to the trailhead.

The sun shone brightly as we hiked, the path winding through towering trees and vibrant wildflowers. The air was fresh and crisp, filling my lungs with a sense of freedom. Nic walked close beside me, his arm occasionally brushing against mine, sending delightful shivers through me.

"See that ridge up ahead?" he pointed, his eyes glinting with excitement. "That's where we're headed."

I nodded, feeling the thrill of the adventure. As we continued, we shared stories and laughter, the kind of easy conversation that made the time fly. Each step brought us closer to the breathtaking view I could only imagine.