Full Circle

Chapter 11

It took Gabby another week until she felt human enough to go out in public. Her c-section incision was healing and she could finally move without wincing. She was still getting used to the nursing and the physical changes that entailed but after seeing how healthy Jackson was she wasn't going to change it.

Clint wanted to take her out on an official first date but it took not only his urging, but Paula and Garth as well to convince her to go. Having the three of them around to help was wonderful and she'd been able to rest well during Jackson's first week home. It still felt weird to be prepping for a date when Friday evening rolled around.

Paula sat with Jackson in the rocking chair while Gabby rifled through her closet. "I think it's great that you and Clint are getting back together. You two need this date. You haven't really had the chance to work on your coupleness."

Gabby looked at Paula over her shoulder. "Coupleness? Is that like coupley?"

"No, coupleness is a noun. Coupley is an adjective."

Gabby laughed. "Sorry I asked."

Paula grinned. "Seriously Gabby, aren't you excited about this?"

Gabby stopped rifling and sighed. "Yes. And no. It just feels strange. A little fast."

Paula cocked her head. "You mean people don't normally become widowed, have a baby and begin dating their high school sweetheart all in nine months time?"

Gabby scowled at Paula. "Not. Helping."

"I'm kidding Gabby!" she laughed. "You need to relax. You talked this over long and hard with God, remember? You aren't doubting that now, are you?"

"No. I doubt me. I don't feel like date material."

Paula waved her hand at Gabby. "Oh, please, does that really have a definition? You're going out with Clint, not some guy off the street. Just put on your best pair of jeans, a nice frilly western blouse and your boots. He'll melt into a puddle."

This time Gabby laughed. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I already know he loves me."

"That's the spirit!"

By the time Gabby made her way downstairs, she was in much better spirits. She'd gotten her confidence back. She still felt a bit frumpy, but in truth she was already fitting back into her pre-pregnancy clothes. She'd pulled her hair up and dug out some jewelry that she hadn't worn in a while.

Clint let out a whistle when she and Paula stepped into the kitchen. Gabby grinned as she felt her cheeks blush.

"See, I told you." Paula whispered.

"Funny, you look just like this girl I knew in high school." Clint teased.

"Oh, stop. Let's get this date started before I chicken out."

Clint grabbed his cowboy hat off the counter and bowed slightly. "Yes ma'am." He motioned her toward the door, giving Paula a wink.

"Call if you need anything, okay?" Gabby reminded her.

Paula waved. "We'll be fine. Jackson won't even know you're gone. When he's old enough I'll tell him all about it."

Gabby rolled her eyes and followed Clint to his Jeep.

"How you doing?" Clint asked as they headed out the lane. "Got sweaty palms yet?"

Gabby laughed. "Nah, those are for boys. I've got butterflies."

"Really?" Clint asked, surprised.

Gabby nodded. "Yeah, a little. I haven't been on a date in a while. Especially with you."