Chapter 2

Picket had just finished weeding his garden, when he saw Smalls coming up the road. “Hi Smalls! What brings you here? Looking for someone?”

“I have no idea what you mean. Nevermind. I came here to see Heather. Is she around? If she is busy with something or someone, I can come back later.”

“She is here. She just went inside. Would you like me to call her?”

“No, that’s okay. May I go inside?” Picket nodded. When Smalls was inside, he found Heather in the kitchen cooking something with potatoes. “I never thought you would use potatoes ever again.” They both smiled.

“What do I owe this surprise?” Heather smiled warmly.

“I wanted to ask you if you would like me to escort you to the village dance this week. All the young does and bucks are going.”

“Oh, Smalls. I would love to go.” He took her hand and kissed it. Heather blushed a little. She led him to one of their sitting chairs by the fireplace. Once they were settled, she laid her head on his shoulder. “Oh, Smalls. I can’t believe we are finally free. We dreamed of this time for so long.”

“Me too, Heather. But even though we are free, I still have a lot of work to do. The mended wood is almost here.” Suddenly, they both became silent. They heard Picket come in.

“Oh, I am sorry if I intruded on anything. Would you like me to go outside for a little

while?”

“No, Picket. You can stay.” Once Picket was settled, Smalls asked him, “Are you taking Emma to the dance this weekend, Picket?”

“Yes, I am, and then I am going to propose to her after. Heather, could you go get us a drink, please?” Heather nodded, and hurried out of the room.

“Why did you send her out of the room?” Smalls asked Picket with a confused face.

“I wanted to ask you when you are going to propose to her.”

“I was thinking of also proposing to her after the dance. Do you know what place, in case we both decide to do it at the same place?” “I was thinking on our upstairs patio. Where were you thinking?”

“On one of the upstairs decks of the palace. I am excited but nervous. What if she says

no?”

“Smalls, I know she will not refuse. I can see it in her eyes the love that she has for you. If she says no, I will be a hundred percent surprised. I am so happy for you both.”

“And I am so happy for you two.” That weekend, Smalls showed up at Heather’s door

right on time. When he saw her, his eyes grew wide.

“Heather, you look breathtaking.” Heather blushed.

“Thank you Smalls!” He held out his arm, and she took it.

I can't believe I got this done. with @Jo4life bothering me:) I am joking:) But here is the second chapter.