Table with a View
Hart Land Cupid Cafe Flirt Book 3
Chapter One
A dog-eared paperback in her lap, Jenna Mason sat cross-legged on the comfy bed in the tiny lakeside cabin. The Hart Land resort had been everything the brochures promised, from friendly family owners, to stunning lake views. Sleeping on this bed had been like snuggling into a cloud. Remaining all day to devour another favored novel had been an irresistible temptation.
Even though fall was weeks away, the brisk evening air had allowed her to light a fire a couple of times since her arrival, adding another layer of comfort to her little cabin. Outside, the wind carried the rustle of trees and the occasional splash of water against the nearby point. At first she’d thought one of the cabins nestled against the tree-filled mountainside would be the perfect place to curl up with her stack of books and forget all about… well, forget. She was glad at the last second she’d chosen the cabin closest to the shore.
Still, even with the occasional laughter of other guests splashing about at the water’s edge, the silence today was proving heavier than she’d expected. Somehow, the long sought solitude wasn’t the gift she’d thought it would be. She had come to the lake to get away from the noise—her ex’s loud apologies, her friends’ overly chipper encouragements, and the constant hum of her office. Today especially, she felt transported to an episode of the old I Love Lucy television show when Lucy and Ricky had first moved to the Connecticut suburbs, unable to adapt to the utter silence of country living. To her surprise, she was acutely aware of every creak of the cabin floor, every spit of wave on the stone wall, and every birdcall whether near or far.
On a deep sigh, she closed the book and set it aside. Maybe it wasn’t silence she needed. Perhaps a little corner of the world where nothing would be as bustling as her life back home, but not quite as isolated as her current abode, was in order.
Her phone buzzed with a message: “Don’t forget to breathe.” It was from her sister, Claire, the only one who truly seemed to understand how hard it had been to walk away from someone she’d spent years loving—or what she thought had been love. Jenna smiled faintly. Slowly, she was coming to the revelation that what she and her ex had was more akin to forced familiarity and the idea of love more than love itself. Not that every love had to be like her romance novels, but a little excitement wouldn’t be so awful, would it?
Tying her hair back, she grabbed her notebook and pen. If she couldn’t escape her thoughts, she might as well write them down. The famed lobster rolls at the One Stop had been recommended by the General, his wife, and just about every staff and guest she’d bumped into. The promise of the best lobster rolls on the Eastern seaboard accompanied by breathtaking views had finally been enough to tempt her out of the cabin. Hopefully at this late hour the One Stop would still be serving lunch. It was time to face the world. Or at least, one corner of it.
* * * *
Watching as his grandfather shuffled down the garden path, watering can in hand, Ben Tristan leaned against the weathered fence post. The old man refused to let anyone else tend the tomatoes, even though the arthritis in his knees made the task twice as hard as it used to be. Memories of a much younger man teaching Ben how to tend to the garden after his parents had died unexpectedly in a car crash played before his eyes. He’d been an angry young teen and slowly, his grandfather’s love and patience had brought him about. So had digging in dirt. Pops was one smart man. “You need anything, Pops?”
The old man waved him off with a gruff laugh. “I’ve been doing this since before your father was born. Go find something more useful to do.”
Chuckling, Ben stayed where he was, just in case. Returning to the small town where he’d been born after years in the city hadn’t been part of his long term plan, but when his grandfather’s health started to decline, and Pop’s stubbornness kicked into overdrive, there hadn’t been much of a choice but to come home to the man who had kept him from totally screwing up his life. He owed Pops that much, and more.
The four wheel drive SUV that had replaced his low to the ground sweet ride sat in the driveway. The practical ride seemed to be reminding him of all he’d given up when he’d decided to return to small town Lawford. Even though some days the weight of taking on oversight of his stubborn grandfather settled deep in his chest, making him wonder if he’d lost more than his fast-paced job and city apartment when he moved back, for now, he didn’t mind. He was positive his grandfather was way more important than any corner office. What he didn’t know, was if Lawford would ever truly feel like home again.
A soft bark drew his attention, and he knelt to scratch behind Daisy’s ears. The old dog wagged her tail furiously, oblivious to Ben’s thoughts.
“C’mon, girl,” he stood up, “let’s grab a late lunch before it’s dinnertime.”
Nose to the air, the dog let out a smiling woof. Daisy knew exactly what those words meant. A quick stop at the One Stop and a few words with Katie the proprietor always shook away any doubts he might have about uprooting his world. The lobster rolls were just an extra perk, and as much a favorite of the dog as Ben. Yep, time for good food, a quiet spot to sit, and a chance to remember that life wasn’t all duty and responsibility.
Chapter Two
The bell above the door of the One Stop jingled, announcing the arrival of another customer. Something in the air must have brought out every local and tourist in town. Katie O’Leary loved running the One Stop, and on days like today when the lunch crowd was never ending, her extroverted soul leapt with delight. “Top of the morning to you, Ben.”
“And the rest of the day to you.” He smiled.
All of her life, whether still morning or not, she’d offered the cheery greeting her grandmother had taught her, and through the years, just about every person who came through these doors had learned the appropriate response to the Irish version of hello. “How are things with your grandfather?”
“I swear that old man is going to outlive me.”
Those words brought a smile to Katie’s lips. She had a fond spot for old Edwin. His wife had been one of her grandmother’s dearest friends. It broke everyone’s heart when she passed in her sleep last year. But Edwin had been the one to hold up everyone else in their sorrow. Katie knew no one could live forever, but she wouldn’t object to a lot more years with old Edwin Tristan. “Lunch to go?”
“Pops is tending to his tomatoes today and, I suspect, chatting with Grams.”
“They did love their gardens.”
“I thought Daisy and I would indulge in your lobster rolls and take in the view.”
The smiling faced Golden had already come to her side, tail swishing across the floor, eager for the homemade biscuits that Katie shared with all her four legged customers. “You’re a good girl, Daisy.”
The slow moving tail shifted into fast gear. If the dog could just shuffle about, Katie wouldn’t have to sweep up at the end of the day.
“Daisy.” Ben tapped his leg and the dog dutifully ran to his side and sat at his heels. The tail, of course, still swishing to its own rhythm.
“You two go get a seat and I’ll bring your lunches.” Ben didn’t have to tell her that he wanted a regular lobster roll for him and a breadless lobster dished into a bowl for Daisy. It was an indulgence, but she was a good dog and a little spoiling now and then was good for everyone’s soul.
* * * *
Jenna pushed the single glass door open. The promise of the "best lobster rolls on the Eastern seaboard" had kept her drooling since leaving the quaint cabin she’d been calling home. The aroma of freshly baked bread and seasoned seafood lifted her spirits. Immediately she knew she was not going to be disappointed.
While Katie chatted up a handful of customers in front of her, Jenna’s gaze darted outside to the tiny patio with scattered tables and chairs. One patron in particular caught her eye. A man with sun-kissed chestnut hair, dark sunglasses, and a beautiful Golden Retriever at his side left her wondering what was his story. Did he have a wife? Was he a local or a tourist? Tourist, she decided. If he were a local he’d be at work in the middle of the day in the middle of the week. Or maybe, like her, he was just popping in for lunch.
Shaking her head, she shook off her curiosity. She was washing her hands of the opposite sex. Whether she liked it or not, her history with picking a man in her life was simply abysmal. The idea of a soul mate, a life match, was stuff of romance novels, and apparently not in the cards for her.
“And what can I get you on this sunny day?”
The hint of an Irish accent caused a smile to tug at Jenna’s lips. This had to be the Katie O’Leary everyone spoke of so fondly. “I know it’s a little late in the day, but do you have any lobster rolls left?”
“Absolutely.” Katie’s smile bloomed even wider. “Would you like some homemade slaw to go with that?”
“Oh, yes, please.” She hadn’t heard about the slaw, but somehow she knew it was going to be worth it. Without much effort, Katie easily convinced her to try the real fresh squeezed lemonade.
“You go ahead and grab a spot outside before someone else comes along and I’ll bring your lunch out to you in a few minutes.”
“Thank you.” Immediately, her eyes darted to see if the handsome man with the large dog was still outside. Leaning back in his chair, his ankle resting on the opposite thigh, the man focused on the magazine in hand. Funny, in today’s society everyone seemed to have a phone glued to their hands. A man casually reading a magazine or newspaper was an unexpected sight. Then again, in this laid back setting, unusual somehow felt more usual.
Once again reminding herself she was not interested in men, Jenna tugged the door open and stepped onto the flagstone patio. A single table for two remained unoccupied. With a little extra pep in her step, she made her way before someone else could grab it. Scurrying around the square table, she opted for the seat that faced the water. Her back to the man still reading his magazine, she pulled the chair out and bending at the knees to sit, found herself just as quickly shoved to one side. Waving her arms for balance, she managed to spin in place just in time to see hundred pounds of fur happily parking his derriere in her chair, and the man with the magazine springing to his feet, eyes wide, and mouth hanging open. All she heard was “Daisy, down!”
* * * *
Lurching forward, Ben reached for the woman teetering in place before snapping his hands back to his sides. “I am so sorry. Are you okay?”
The petite brunette whose cheeks flushed the same shade of pink as her blouse blinked, glanced down at her feet, and softly sputtered, “Um, I uh, think so.” Her gaze lifted to meet Daisy, who had the audacity to smile at her.
Ben hefted his hands onto his hips. “Don’t you look so smug.”
“Excuse me?” Pretty blue eyes tore into him.
“Sorry, not you. Her. Daisy. Bad dog.”
As if on command, the dog’s smile slipped and her head tipped down.
“Aw, poor baby. She didn’t mean it. You’re a good girl. And pretty too.” Leaning over, the blonde reached forward and scratched behind Daisy’s ears. “It’s okay.”
And just like that, Daisy looked up, the smile back on her face. He couldn’t blame the dog—if a woman like that cooed at him, he’d be grinning too.
Chapter Three
“There you are, Ben.” A tray in hand with two plates and a bowl, Katie’s gaze drifted from Daisy to her master then to Jenna before her sweet smile widened. “Glad to see you’ve made friends. Life’s too short to eat alone. I’ll just leave these here.”
“Oh.” Daisy’s owner—Ben according to Katie—twisted in place, his arm waving at the table he and Daisy had occupied, a table two other people now sat at happily chatting away. His mouth opened then quickly snapped shut. “Apparently Daisy and I have been evicted.”
Placing the two plates on the table, and bending over to set the bowl in front of Daisy, Katie chuckled. “Guess you three are roomies, at least for lunch.” She brushed her hands together and bobbed her head at them. “Enjoy your lunch and let me know if you need anything else.”
Before either of them could say a word, Katie had spun about and briskly walked back inside the One Stop.
Jenna glanced down at the dog, her nose in the bowl of breadless lobster mix, her tail swishing merrily against the flagstone ground. “I don’t think you’re going to get Daisy to move anytime soon.”
“Doesn’t look like it.” He shrugged.
Shoving the urge to grab her sandwich and eat alone in a corner somewhere down deep inside, she forced her vocal cords to work. “Would you, uh, care to join me?”
The corners of his mouth curled up in a lazy grin and deep blue eyes danced with contentment. “I thought you’d never ask.”
That made her chuckle. She had no idea who to thank for this, Katie, Daisy, the folks at the table that used to be Ben’s, or God himself, but the idea of not eating alone suddenly held a whole lot more appeal than it had just an hour ago.
“Ben, is that you?” Her gaze narrowed, an attractive blonde stopped at the tableside. “It is. I heard you moved in with your grandfather.”
Barely having had time enough to take a seat, Ben was on his feet and smiling. The good thing was that he was clearly a gentleman, the downside, the blonde was awfully pretty. Not that it was any of Jenna’s business.
“Lily. I hear congratulations are in order.”
“Thank you.” The woman looked even prettier when she blushed.
Now Ben moved around the table to give Lily a hug, and Daisy abandoned her bowl of food and was happily grinning at the woman. Traitor.
“Turn my back for five minutes and my wife is hugging strange men.” A tall man with sparkling blue eyes came up behind Lily and gave her a gentle squeeze.
“Ben isn’t a stranger. He was the best pitcher in town, to Callie’s chagrin.”
The man still holding onto Lily stretched out his right hand. “Cole McIntyre. Nice to meet you.”
“Ben Tristan. Likewise, but where’s the new baby everyone’s been talking about?”
“Lucy has her, and we were just saying if we stay away too long, she might not be willing to give Vivian back to us.”
At that moment Lily’s gaze shifted to Jenna, and Ben’s eyes opened wide. “Excuse my manners, this is…” His eyes rounded even wider when he realized he still didn’t know her name.
Jenna extended her arm. “Jenna Mason.”
“Oh, you’re the new guest at my grandparents’ inn.”
With a bob of her head, Jenna smiled. “At Hart Land, yes.”
“I hope you’re enjoying your stay.”
“I am.” She couldn’t resist, her gaze briefly darted to Ben and she could feel her cheeks warming. “Very much.”
* * *
His grandmother had been disappointed that Ben couldn’t make it back for Lily’s wedding, but determined to climb the corporate ladder, he’d had to pass on taking time off. The same had been for all the Hart granddaughters, though he had a soft spot for Lily, probably because of her mouthwatering pastries. The kid could bake better than anyone he’d ever known, including his grandmother, from the time she was in junior high.
Now, seeing the way the firefighter’s eyes lit with love and delight every time he glanced at his wife, along with how they still held hands after a few years of marriage and what he was sure had been weeks with little or no sleep, made him very happy for Lily.
“We’d better get going.” Cole kissed his wife on the temple. “Your grandmother is going to wonder what happened to us if we don’t get back with everyone’s lunch sooner than later.”
“Agreed.” Lily leaned slightly into her husband before waving at Ben. “Don’t stay a stranger.” Then she turned to Jenna. “It was lovely meeting you. I’m glad Ben finally found someone nice.”
To his relief, the woman whose name he’d only learned a few moments ago didn’t flinch. Ben, on the other hand, was mortified, his mouth dropped open to set Lily straight, but his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth. By the time he’d recovered from the surprise, Lily and Cole were entering the One Stop.
“I’m sorry about that.”
“What?” Still standing, Jenna reached over, scratched the top of Daisy’s head, and slid into the empty chair the dog had vacated to eat.
For a moment he debated whether to apologize for Lily’s assumption they were together or explain that he knew plenty of nice girls, even if he had spent more time focusing on his career than his love life. Opting instead to sit and enjoy lunch and the company, he shook his head. “Nothing.”
The sandwich almost to her mouth, she paused, looked at him, and smiled impishly. “So, you don’t have much luck with women?”
He almost choked on a bite of lobster roll. Coughing, he reached for the glass of lemonade and took a long sip.
“Now it’s my turn to apologize. I didn’t mean to startle you with my teasing.”
Shaking his head, he took another sip. “Maybe we should start over.”
At that moment, Daisy sat beside her and rested her head on Jenna’s lap.
“Don’t fall for that look.” Ben shook his head at Daisy. “That’s dog speak for you don’t really want your sandwich, do you?”
As hoped, Jenna’s response was a sharp burst of laughter that made her eyes twinkle. “Sorry, girl. I’m hungry.”
The dog actually sighed, but didn’t move.
“All right, young lady.” Ben snapped his fingers at his side.
Daisy lifted her head, giving Jenna an apologetic look, and slowly pawed over to Ben’s side just as a deep voice called out, “Heads up!”
Chapter Four
Shifting in place to scan the area where the voice came from, Jenna spotted Katie coming out the door with a plate of food in each hand and Daisy jumping to her feet and bolting toward Katie.
“Oh, no.” Visions of almost a hundred pounds of fur knocking Katie over and slurping up the free food flashed before Jenna’s eyes like a preview of next week’s movie of the week.
The sound of chair legs scraping against the stone flooring filled the air as Ben lurched to grab his dog by the collar, his fingers barely missing as Daisy sprang up on her back legs.
At least a foot off the ground, her head tipped heavenward, Daisy’s mouth wide open, a bright orange Frisbee spinning swiftly through space stopped abruptly, gripped in Daisy’s jaw.
Danged if the dog wasn’t still smiling.
Wobbling in place like a bobble toy, Katie quickly caught her balance. “Well, that was certainly a close one.”
A young man in his late teens came rushing up to Katie. “So sorry, the wind caught it. I tried to give you a heads up.”
“Ah, that was what all that ruckus was about.” The storekeeper smiled at the apologetic young man. “I’d say you owe Miss Daisy here a nice big bone for saving me and these two lunches.”
“Yes, ma’am.” The young man squatted and retrieving the Frisbee from Daisy’s mouth, scratched behind her ears. “What do you say? A nice bone?”
Dancing on her front paws, Daisy lifted her head and dropping the Frisbee in her hero’s hand, barked her approval.
“Let me deliver these two lunches and then you both can come inside with me and we’ll find a good treat for our rescuer.”
“Sounds good,” the young man nodded, tossing the Frisbee back to his friends in the parking lot.
Back from serving the rescued lunch plates, Katie waved at the teenager. “Remember, next time aim for the open water, not my patio,” the smiling woman teased, her tone light but commanding.
Nodding, the young man followed the proprietress inside.
“That was close.” Ben blew out a long slow breath and flopped back into his seat.
“Daisy was great.” Jenna went ahead and retook her chair.
“Welcome to the One Stop.” Ben bit back his amusement and pulled Daisy into a sit beside him. “Come for the lobster rolls, stay for the live entertainment.”
Jenna chuckled, still a bit breathless from the commotion. She broke off a small piece of her sandwich and, with a glance to Ben for approval, held it out to Daisy. The dog accepted it with exaggerated gentleness, earning an affectionate pat on the head from Jenna.
“You’ll spoil her,” Ben’s tone lacked any real reprimand.
“She earned it.” Jenna leaned back, taking a sip of her lemonade. “She’s got better reflexes than I do, that’s for sure.”
“Don’t let her fool you. Daisy’s just as much trouble as she is charm. Isn’t that right, girl?” Ben gave the dog a playful nudge and Daisy let out a huff, settling down at his feet, her gaze on the door the proprietor and teen had used.
A moment later, the teen emerged, large bone in hand, and without lifting her head, Daisy’s tail began swishing wildly.
“You really are making out like a queen today, aren’t you?” Ben scratched behind one ear as Daisy dug into the bone that apologetic teen laid at her feet.
Jenna took a sip of the fresh lemonade, savoring the tart sweetness. “You’re lucky to live here. Everything from Main Street to Hart Land and now here, has so much character.”
“My grandmother would say we’ve been blessed.” Ben glanced out at the water, his gaze wistful. “Haven’t made up my mind yet if the lake is meant to be just for now, or home for good, but it is a very lovely, and peaceful, and friendly place.” His grin widened. “With a little chaos tossed in from time to time.”
“Chaos seems to follow me.” Jenna chuckled. “Maybe that’s why I like it here.”
Ben studied her for a moment, his easygoing smile fading into something more thoughtful. “Sometimes a little chaos is just what we need to shake things up.”
Her gaze leveled with his. For just a moment, she felt as if he could read her thoughts, her very soul, perhaps understood something about her that she hadn’t said out loud. She broke the moment with a laugh, lightly tapping the edge of her glass against his. “To chaos, then.”
“To chaos,” he echoed.
The conversation meandered after that, touching on everything from Daisy’s antics to the peculiar charm of small-town life, to the loss of his parents, then his grandmother’s passing bringing him home to Lawford until somehow, she found herself telling this handsome stranger all about her recent break up and escape to this picturesque town.
She’d lost all sense of time. Not till the sun dipped lower, painting the lake in shades of gold and amber, did she realize they’d been chatting for hours. Hours that were passing too quickly. Jenna wished there was such a thing as magic wands and fairy godmothers to simply wave an arm and keep them frozen in this sweet moment of time.
* * *
Katie returned to clear the plates, leaving behind two slices of key lime pie. “On the house. Call it an apology for the patio antics. Besides, this will help make sure you two don’t run off before the best part of the day.”
Fork in hand, Ben paused to watch Jenna lift a bite of pie to her mouth. He almost swallowed his tongue as her lips closed around the fork and she let out the slightest moan of appreciation. “Oh, my. This has to be the best pie I’ve ever had.”
“You should come back tomorrow.” Katie grinned. “I’ll be baking my grandmother’s custard pie. I’m told it’s to die for.” The woman who some thought had a sixth sense about people and life, perhaps even a magical touch, winked and spun about, leaving them alone on the patio.
“Why does custard pie sound so much more tantalizing when Katie says it?”
“That accent makes everything she says sound special.” Ben took a bite. At least in the kitchen, Katie really did have the magic touch.
Stabbing at the pie, she slipped another piece into her mouth. “Katie’s baking could be enough to make a city girl move to the mountains.”
“Careful,” Ben waved his fork at her, “that’s how they get you.”
Jenna laughed, glancing around the patio, making him wonder what was she thinking.
“Penny for your thoughts?”
She shrugged. “Just thinking about this place. The twinkle of the lights strung overhead, the gentle flow of water washing against the single dock,” her lips tipped upward in a sweet smile, “the Frisbee catching dog. I can’t help but wonder if maybe this little corner of the world, with all its quirks and chaos, just might have a way of sneaking into your heart when you least expect it.”
That wasn’t what was sneaking into his heart. The lake had made itself at home in his heart a long time ago. No, today it was Jenna who was sneaking into his heart, and it made no sense at all. In only a short while he shouldn’t be so keenly interested in her, and yet he was. Which left the question, what was he going to do about it?
Chapter Five
As the string of lights cast a warm glow over the patio, Jenna found herself keenly aware that the One Stop would be closing soon and this wonderful day would have to come to an end. Ben’s easy smile and calm presence had made everything in her world seem… right. The idea of returning to a quiet, solitary cabin felt oddly empty.
Katie popped her head out the door. “I’ll be locking up, but I’m leaving the lights on. Stay as long as you like.”
“Thanks.” Ben waved at the woman, and turned to Jenna. “Do you need to be going home?”
Did she? “No.” She shook her head, pleased to see his smile widen.
“What about you? Your grandfather won’t be worried?”
“Nope. I texted him when Katie brought out the pie that I would be a bit longer.” He stood, brushing off his hands and offering her his arm. “Come with me. One of the best views in Lawford is just a short walk away. Daisy will vouch for it.”
Daisy’s ears perked up at the sound of her name. Eagerly, the dog rose, her tail wagging in agreement.
For a moment, Jenna hesitated, before slipping her hand into the crook of Ben’s arm, almost afraid that if she touched him, the world as she knew it would come crashing down.
The small dock she’d noticed boaters pulling up to earlier stretched out into the lake, its planks illuminated by faint moonlight. Ben led her to the end, where they sat side by side, their feet dangling just above the rippling water. Daisy settled beside them, her head resting on her paws, her gaze darting from the disappearing sun to her master and back.
“It won’t be long now.” Ben lifted his eyes heavenward.
“What won’t be long?”
“There.” His free arm lifted, pointing to the sky. “First star of the night.”
Like she did when she was a little girl, she closed her eyes and made a wish.
“And another.” His arm shifted, pointing to a different spot in the distance.
In what seemed like only a few moments, the sky was covered in shimmering diamonds. “We don’t see this in the city.”
“Nope,” Ben agreed. “Out here, the stars remind you how small your troubles really are. And how big your dreams can be.”
Jenna glanced at him, surprised by the wistfulness in his tone. “Do you have big dreams?”
His gaze fixed on the heavens, he hefted one shoulder in a casual shrug. “I used to. Then life happened. Family obligations, responsibilities…you know how it goes. But lately, I’ve been wondering if maybe it’s not too late to dream again.”
“I’m starting to believe that maybe it’s never too late. And this place…well, it feels like the kind of place where dreams really could come true.”
“What about you, what are your dreams?” Ben smiled, his eyes meeting hers.
“I suppose the same thing as anyone else. Successful career. A good man. And lots and lots of comfortable shoes.”
* * *
Ben burst out laughing. Had he ever met anyone like Jenna before? “You are full of surprises, aren’t you?”
With a gentle shrug, she smiled at him. “Show me a woman who doesn’t like shoes and I’ll show you a woman who hasn’t found herself yet.”
A chuckle rumbled in his chest. “Shoes, huh?”
She nodded.
“And all these years I thought it was all about flowers, and wine, and somewhere I read that all really women want is to dance.”
“I rest my case. Can’t dance without comfortable shoes.”
He couldn’t resist. As scared as he was to ruin this exquisite day with a stranger who felt like a lifelong friend, he reached over and took her hand in his. When she didn’t pull away, he laced his fingers with hers and quietly sat, feeling her warmth, watching the stars, and wondering if life had ever been more perfect.
For all he knew, they’d sat on the dock for ten minutes or ten hours. He hoped she didn’t want this to end any more than he did. “How long will you be staying?”
Her gaze met his. “I don’t know. Suddenly, getting back to the city doesn’t seem very important.”
If it was possible for a heart to do a somersault, his just did. “Do you have plans for tomorrow?”
Her head shook from left to right.
“I’d love to show you around town and the rest of the lake.”
“That sounds wonderful.”
“And then maybe dinner?”
She nodded.
Tempted to throw out dancing and more stargazing, he settled on enjoying the moment, the stars, the woman at his side, and the still small voice inside him that whispered welcome home.
A dog-eared paperback in her lap, Jenna Mason sat cross-legged on the comfy bed in the tiny lakeside cabin. The Hart Land resort had been everything the brochures promised, from friendly family owners, to stunning lake views. Sleeping on this bed had been like snuggling into a cloud. Remaining all day to devour another favored novel had been an irresistible temptation.
Even though fall was weeks away, the brisk evening air had allowed her to light a fire a couple of times since her arrival, adding another layer of comfort to her little cabin. Outside, the wind carried the rustle of trees and the occasional splash of water against the nearby point. At first she’d thought one of the cabins nestled against the tree-filled mountainside would be the perfect place to curl up with her stack of books and forget all about… well, forget. She was glad at the last second she’d chosen the cabin closest to the shore.
Still, even with the occasional laughter of other guests splashing about at the water’s edge, the silence today was proving heavier than she’d expected. Somehow, the long sought solitude wasn’t the gift she’d thought it would be. She had come to the lake to get away from the noise—her ex’s loud apologies, her friends’ overly chipper encouragements, and the constant hum of her office. Today especially, she felt transported to an episode of the old I Love Lucy television show when Lucy and Ricky had first moved to the Connecticut suburbs, unable to adapt to the utter silence of country living. To her surprise, she was acutely aware of every creak of the cabin floor, every spit of wave on the stone wall, and every birdcall whether near or far.
On a deep sigh, she closed the book and set it aside. Maybe it wasn’t silence she needed. Perhaps a little corner of the world where nothing would be as bustling as her life back home, but not quite as isolated as her current abode, was in order.
Her phone buzzed with a message: “Don’t forget to breathe.” It was from her sister, Claire, the only one who truly seemed to understand how hard it had been to walk away from someone she’d spent years loving—or what she thought had been love. Jenna smiled faintly. Slowly, she was coming to the revelation that what she and her ex had was more akin to forced familiarity and the idea of love more than love itself. Not that every love had to be like her romance novels, but a little excitement wouldn’t be so awful, would it?
Tying her hair back, she grabbed her notebook and pen. If she couldn’t escape her thoughts, she might as well write them down. The famed lobster rolls at the One Stop had been recommended by the General, his wife, and just about every staff and guest she’d bumped into. The promise of the best lobster rolls on the Eastern seaboard accompanied by breathtaking views had finally been enough to tempt her out of the cabin. Hopefully at this late hour the One Stop would still be serving lunch. It was time to face the world. Or at least, one corner of it.
* * * *
Watching as his grandfather shuffled down the garden path, watering can in hand, Ben Tristan leaned against the weathered fence post. The old man refused to let anyone else tend the tomatoes, even though the arthritis in his knees made the task twice as hard as it used to be. Memories of a much younger man teaching Ben how to tend to the garden after his parents had died unexpectedly in a car crash played before his eyes. He’d been an angry young teen and slowly, his grandfather’s love and patience had brought him about. So had digging in dirt. Pops was one smart man. “You need anything, Pops?”
The old man waved him off with a gruff laugh. “I’ve been doing this since before your father was born. Go find something more useful to do.”
Chuckling, Ben stayed where he was, just in case. Returning to the small town where he’d been born after years in the city hadn’t been part of his long term plan, but when his grandfather’s health started to decline, and Pop’s stubbornness kicked into overdrive, there hadn’t been much of a choice but to come home to the man who had kept him from totally screwing up his life. He owed Pops that much, and more.
The four wheel drive SUV that had replaced his low to the ground sweet ride sat in the driveway. The practical ride seemed to be reminding him of all he’d given up when he’d decided to return to small town Lawford. Even though some days the weight of taking on oversight of his stubborn grandfather settled deep in his chest, making him wonder if he’d lost more than his fast-paced job and city apartment when he moved back, for now, he didn’t mind. He was positive his grandfather was way more important than any corner office. What he didn’t know, was if Lawford would ever truly feel like home again.
A soft bark drew his attention, and he knelt to scratch behind Daisy’s ears. The old dog wagged her tail furiously, oblivious to Ben’s thoughts.
“C’mon, girl,” he stood up, “let’s grab a late lunch before it’s dinnertime.”
Nose to the air, the dog let out a smiling woof. Daisy knew exactly what those words meant. A quick stop at the One Stop and a few words with Katie the proprietor always shook away any doubts he might have about uprooting his world. The lobster rolls were just an extra perk, and as much a favorite of the dog as Ben. Yep, time for good food, a quiet spot to sit, and a chance to remember that life wasn’t all duty and responsibility.
Chapter Two
The bell above the door of the One Stop jingled, announcing the arrival of another customer. Something in the air must have brought out every local and tourist in town. Katie O’Leary loved running the One Stop, and on days like today when the lunch crowd was never ending, her extroverted soul leapt with delight. “Top of the morning to you, Ben.”
“And the rest of the day to you.” He smiled.
All of her life, whether still morning or not, she’d offered the cheery greeting her grandmother had taught her, and through the years, just about every person who came through these doors had learned the appropriate response to the Irish version of hello. “How are things with your grandfather?”
“I swear that old man is going to outlive me.”
Those words brought a smile to Katie’s lips. She had a fond spot for old Edwin. His wife had been one of her grandmother’s dearest friends. It broke everyone’s heart when she passed in her sleep last year. But Edwin had been the one to hold up everyone else in their sorrow. Katie knew no one could live forever, but she wouldn’t object to a lot more years with old Edwin Tristan. “Lunch to go?”
“Pops is tending to his tomatoes today and, I suspect, chatting with Grams.”
“They did love their gardens.”
“I thought Daisy and I would indulge in your lobster rolls and take in the view.”
The smiling faced Golden had already come to her side, tail swishing across the floor, eager for the homemade biscuits that Katie shared with all her four legged customers. “You’re a good girl, Daisy.”
The slow moving tail shifted into fast gear. If the dog could just shuffle about, Katie wouldn’t have to sweep up at the end of the day.
“Daisy.” Ben tapped his leg and the dog dutifully ran to his side and sat at his heels. The tail, of course, still swishing to its own rhythm.
“You two go get a seat and I’ll bring your lunches.” Ben didn’t have to tell her that he wanted a regular lobster roll for him and a breadless lobster dished into a bowl for Daisy. It was an indulgence, but she was a good dog and a little spoiling now and then was good for everyone’s soul.
* * * *
Jenna pushed the single glass door open. The promise of the "best lobster rolls on the Eastern seaboard" had kept her drooling since leaving the quaint cabin she’d been calling home. The aroma of freshly baked bread and seasoned seafood lifted her spirits. Immediately she knew she was not going to be disappointed.
While Katie chatted up a handful of customers in front of her, Jenna’s gaze darted outside to the tiny patio with scattered tables and chairs. One patron in particular caught her eye. A man with sun-kissed chestnut hair, dark sunglasses, and a beautiful Golden Retriever at his side left her wondering what was his story. Did he have a wife? Was he a local or a tourist? Tourist, she decided. If he were a local he’d be at work in the middle of the day in the middle of the week. Or maybe, like her, he was just popping in for lunch.
Shaking her head, she shook off her curiosity. She was washing her hands of the opposite sex. Whether she liked it or not, her history with picking a man in her life was simply abysmal. The idea of a soul mate, a life match, was stuff of romance novels, and apparently not in the cards for her.
“And what can I get you on this sunny day?”
The hint of an Irish accent caused a smile to tug at Jenna’s lips. This had to be the Katie O’Leary everyone spoke of so fondly. “I know it’s a little late in the day, but do you have any lobster rolls left?”
“Absolutely.” Katie’s smile bloomed even wider. “Would you like some homemade slaw to go with that?”
“Oh, yes, please.” She hadn’t heard about the slaw, but somehow she knew it was going to be worth it. Without much effort, Katie easily convinced her to try the real fresh squeezed lemonade.
“You go ahead and grab a spot outside before someone else comes along and I’ll bring your lunch out to you in a few minutes.”
“Thank you.” Immediately, her eyes darted to see if the handsome man with the large dog was still outside. Leaning back in his chair, his ankle resting on the opposite thigh, the man focused on the magazine in hand. Funny, in today’s society everyone seemed to have a phone glued to their hands. A man casually reading a magazine or newspaper was an unexpected sight. Then again, in this laid back setting, unusual somehow felt more usual.
Once again reminding herself she was not interested in men, Jenna tugged the door open and stepped onto the flagstone patio. A single table for two remained unoccupied. With a little extra pep in her step, she made her way before someone else could grab it. Scurrying around the square table, she opted for the seat that faced the water. Her back to the man still reading his magazine, she pulled the chair out and bending at the knees to sit, found herself just as quickly shoved to one side. Waving her arms for balance, she managed to spin in place just in time to see hundred pounds of fur happily parking his derriere in her chair, and the man with the magazine springing to his feet, eyes wide, and mouth hanging open. All she heard was “Daisy, down!”
* * * *
Lurching forward, Ben reached for the woman teetering in place before snapping his hands back to his sides. “I am so sorry. Are you okay?”
The petite brunette whose cheeks flushed the same shade of pink as her blouse blinked, glanced down at her feet, and softly sputtered, “Um, I uh, think so.” Her gaze lifted to meet Daisy, who had the audacity to smile at her.
Ben hefted his hands onto his hips. “Don’t you look so smug.”
“Excuse me?” Pretty blue eyes tore into him.
“Sorry, not you. Her. Daisy. Bad dog.”
As if on command, the dog’s smile slipped and her head tipped down.
“Aw, poor baby. She didn’t mean it. You’re a good girl. And pretty too.” Leaning over, the blonde reached forward and scratched behind Daisy’s ears. “It’s okay.”
And just like that, Daisy looked up, the smile back on her face. He couldn’t blame the dog—if a woman like that cooed at him, he’d be grinning too.
Chapter Three
“There you are, Ben.” A tray in hand with two plates and a bowl, Katie’s gaze drifted from Daisy to her master then to Jenna before her sweet smile widened. “Glad to see you’ve made friends. Life’s too short to eat alone. I’ll just leave these here.”
“Oh.” Daisy’s owner—Ben according to Katie—twisted in place, his arm waving at the table he and Daisy had occupied, a table two other people now sat at happily chatting away. His mouth opened then quickly snapped shut. “Apparently Daisy and I have been evicted.”
Placing the two plates on the table, and bending over to set the bowl in front of Daisy, Katie chuckled. “Guess you three are roomies, at least for lunch.” She brushed her hands together and bobbed her head at them. “Enjoy your lunch and let me know if you need anything else.”
Before either of them could say a word, Katie had spun about and briskly walked back inside the One Stop.
Jenna glanced down at the dog, her nose in the bowl of breadless lobster mix, her tail swishing merrily against the flagstone ground. “I don’t think you’re going to get Daisy to move anytime soon.”
“Doesn’t look like it.” He shrugged.
Shoving the urge to grab her sandwich and eat alone in a corner somewhere down deep inside, she forced her vocal cords to work. “Would you, uh, care to join me?”
The corners of his mouth curled up in a lazy grin and deep blue eyes danced with contentment. “I thought you’d never ask.”
That made her chuckle. She had no idea who to thank for this, Katie, Daisy, the folks at the table that used to be Ben’s, or God himself, but the idea of not eating alone suddenly held a whole lot more appeal than it had just an hour ago.
“Ben, is that you?” Her gaze narrowed, an attractive blonde stopped at the tableside. “It is. I heard you moved in with your grandfather.”
Barely having had time enough to take a seat, Ben was on his feet and smiling. The good thing was that he was clearly a gentleman, the downside, the blonde was awfully pretty. Not that it was any of Jenna’s business.
“Lily. I hear congratulations are in order.”
“Thank you.” The woman looked even prettier when she blushed.
Now Ben moved around the table to give Lily a hug, and Daisy abandoned her bowl of food and was happily grinning at the woman. Traitor.
“Turn my back for five minutes and my wife is hugging strange men.” A tall man with sparkling blue eyes came up behind Lily and gave her a gentle squeeze.
“Ben isn’t a stranger. He was the best pitcher in town, to Callie’s chagrin.”
The man still holding onto Lily stretched out his right hand. “Cole McIntyre. Nice to meet you.”
“Ben Tristan. Likewise, but where’s the new baby everyone’s been talking about?”
“Lucy has her, and we were just saying if we stay away too long, she might not be willing to give Vivian back to us.”
At that moment Lily’s gaze shifted to Jenna, and Ben’s eyes opened wide. “Excuse my manners, this is…” His eyes rounded even wider when he realized he still didn’t know her name.
Jenna extended her arm. “Jenna Mason.”
“Oh, you’re the new guest at my grandparents’ inn.”
With a bob of her head, Jenna smiled. “At Hart Land, yes.”
“I hope you’re enjoying your stay.”
“I am.” She couldn’t resist, her gaze briefly darted to Ben and she could feel her cheeks warming. “Very much.”
* * *
His grandmother had been disappointed that Ben couldn’t make it back for Lily’s wedding, but determined to climb the corporate ladder, he’d had to pass on taking time off. The same had been for all the Hart granddaughters, though he had a soft spot for Lily, probably because of her mouthwatering pastries. The kid could bake better than anyone he’d ever known, including his grandmother, from the time she was in junior high.
Now, seeing the way the firefighter’s eyes lit with love and delight every time he glanced at his wife, along with how they still held hands after a few years of marriage and what he was sure had been weeks with little or no sleep, made him very happy for Lily.
“We’d better get going.” Cole kissed his wife on the temple. “Your grandmother is going to wonder what happened to us if we don’t get back with everyone’s lunch sooner than later.”
“Agreed.” Lily leaned slightly into her husband before waving at Ben. “Don’t stay a stranger.” Then she turned to Jenna. “It was lovely meeting you. I’m glad Ben finally found someone nice.”
To his relief, the woman whose name he’d only learned a few moments ago didn’t flinch. Ben, on the other hand, was mortified, his mouth dropped open to set Lily straight, but his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth. By the time he’d recovered from the surprise, Lily and Cole were entering the One Stop.
“I’m sorry about that.”
“What?” Still standing, Jenna reached over, scratched the top of Daisy’s head, and slid into the empty chair the dog had vacated to eat.
For a moment he debated whether to apologize for Lily’s assumption they were together or explain that he knew plenty of nice girls, even if he had spent more time focusing on his career than his love life. Opting instead to sit and enjoy lunch and the company, he shook his head. “Nothing.”
The sandwich almost to her mouth, she paused, looked at him, and smiled impishly. “So, you don’t have much luck with women?”
He almost choked on a bite of lobster roll. Coughing, he reached for the glass of lemonade and took a long sip.
“Now it’s my turn to apologize. I didn’t mean to startle you with my teasing.”
Shaking his head, he took another sip. “Maybe we should start over.”
At that moment, Daisy sat beside her and rested her head on Jenna’s lap.
“Don’t fall for that look.” Ben shook his head at Daisy. “That’s dog speak for you don’t really want your sandwich, do you?”
As hoped, Jenna’s response was a sharp burst of laughter that made her eyes twinkle. “Sorry, girl. I’m hungry.”
The dog actually sighed, but didn’t move.
“All right, young lady.” Ben snapped his fingers at his side.
Daisy lifted her head, giving Jenna an apologetic look, and slowly pawed over to Ben’s side just as a deep voice called out, “Heads up!”
Chapter Four
Shifting in place to scan the area where the voice came from, Jenna spotted Katie coming out the door with a plate of food in each hand and Daisy jumping to her feet and bolting toward Katie.
“Oh, no.” Visions of almost a hundred pounds of fur knocking Katie over and slurping up the free food flashed before Jenna’s eyes like a preview of next week’s movie of the week.
The sound of chair legs scraping against the stone flooring filled the air as Ben lurched to grab his dog by the collar, his fingers barely missing as Daisy sprang up on her back legs.
At least a foot off the ground, her head tipped heavenward, Daisy’s mouth wide open, a bright orange Frisbee spinning swiftly through space stopped abruptly, gripped in Daisy’s jaw.
Danged if the dog wasn’t still smiling.
Wobbling in place like a bobble toy, Katie quickly caught her balance. “Well, that was certainly a close one.”
A young man in his late teens came rushing up to Katie. “So sorry, the wind caught it. I tried to give you a heads up.”
“Ah, that was what all that ruckus was about.” The storekeeper smiled at the apologetic young man. “I’d say you owe Miss Daisy here a nice big bone for saving me and these two lunches.”
“Yes, ma’am.” The young man squatted and retrieving the Frisbee from Daisy’s mouth, scratched behind her ears. “What do you say? A nice bone?”
Dancing on her front paws, Daisy lifted her head and dropping the Frisbee in her hero’s hand, barked her approval.
“Let me deliver these two lunches and then you both can come inside with me and we’ll find a good treat for our rescuer.”
“Sounds good,” the young man nodded, tossing the Frisbee back to his friends in the parking lot.
Back from serving the rescued lunch plates, Katie waved at the teenager. “Remember, next time aim for the open water, not my patio,” the smiling woman teased, her tone light but commanding.
Nodding, the young man followed the proprietress inside.
“That was close.” Ben blew out a long slow breath and flopped back into his seat.
“Daisy was great.” Jenna went ahead and retook her chair.
“Welcome to the One Stop.” Ben bit back his amusement and pulled Daisy into a sit beside him. “Come for the lobster rolls, stay for the live entertainment.”
Jenna chuckled, still a bit breathless from the commotion. She broke off a small piece of her sandwich and, with a glance to Ben for approval, held it out to Daisy. The dog accepted it with exaggerated gentleness, earning an affectionate pat on the head from Jenna.
“You’ll spoil her,” Ben’s tone lacked any real reprimand.
“She earned it.” Jenna leaned back, taking a sip of her lemonade. “She’s got better reflexes than I do, that’s for sure.”
“Don’t let her fool you. Daisy’s just as much trouble as she is charm. Isn’t that right, girl?” Ben gave the dog a playful nudge and Daisy let out a huff, settling down at his feet, her gaze on the door the proprietor and teen had used.
A moment later, the teen emerged, large bone in hand, and without lifting her head, Daisy’s tail began swishing wildly.
“You really are making out like a queen today, aren’t you?” Ben scratched behind one ear as Daisy dug into the bone that apologetic teen laid at her feet.
Jenna took a sip of the fresh lemonade, savoring the tart sweetness. “You’re lucky to live here. Everything from Main Street to Hart Land and now here, has so much character.”
“My grandmother would say we’ve been blessed.” Ben glanced out at the water, his gaze wistful. “Haven’t made up my mind yet if the lake is meant to be just for now, or home for good, but it is a very lovely, and peaceful, and friendly place.” His grin widened. “With a little chaos tossed in from time to time.”
“Chaos seems to follow me.” Jenna chuckled. “Maybe that’s why I like it here.”
Ben studied her for a moment, his easygoing smile fading into something more thoughtful. “Sometimes a little chaos is just what we need to shake things up.”
Her gaze leveled with his. For just a moment, she felt as if he could read her thoughts, her very soul, perhaps understood something about her that she hadn’t said out loud. She broke the moment with a laugh, lightly tapping the edge of her glass against his. “To chaos, then.”
“To chaos,” he echoed.
The conversation meandered after that, touching on everything from Daisy’s antics to the peculiar charm of small-town life, to the loss of his parents, then his grandmother’s passing bringing him home to Lawford until somehow, she found herself telling this handsome stranger all about her recent break up and escape to this picturesque town.
She’d lost all sense of time. Not till the sun dipped lower, painting the lake in shades of gold and amber, did she realize they’d been chatting for hours. Hours that were passing too quickly. Jenna wished there was such a thing as magic wands and fairy godmothers to simply wave an arm and keep them frozen in this sweet moment of time.
* * *
Katie returned to clear the plates, leaving behind two slices of key lime pie. “On the house. Call it an apology for the patio antics. Besides, this will help make sure you two don’t run off before the best part of the day.”
Fork in hand, Ben paused to watch Jenna lift a bite of pie to her mouth. He almost swallowed his tongue as her lips closed around the fork and she let out the slightest moan of appreciation. “Oh, my. This has to be the best pie I’ve ever had.”
“You should come back tomorrow.” Katie grinned. “I’ll be baking my grandmother’s custard pie. I’m told it’s to die for.” The woman who some thought had a sixth sense about people and life, perhaps even a magical touch, winked and spun about, leaving them alone on the patio.
“Why does custard pie sound so much more tantalizing when Katie says it?”
“That accent makes everything she says sound special.” Ben took a bite. At least in the kitchen, Katie really did have the magic touch.
Stabbing at the pie, she slipped another piece into her mouth. “Katie’s baking could be enough to make a city girl move to the mountains.”
“Careful,” Ben waved his fork at her, “that’s how they get you.”
Jenna laughed, glancing around the patio, making him wonder what was she thinking.
“Penny for your thoughts?”
She shrugged. “Just thinking about this place. The twinkle of the lights strung overhead, the gentle flow of water washing against the single dock,” her lips tipped upward in a sweet smile, “the Frisbee catching dog. I can’t help but wonder if maybe this little corner of the world, with all its quirks and chaos, just might have a way of sneaking into your heart when you least expect it.”
That wasn’t what was sneaking into his heart. The lake had made itself at home in his heart a long time ago. No, today it was Jenna who was sneaking into his heart, and it made no sense at all. In only a short while he shouldn’t be so keenly interested in her, and yet he was. Which left the question, what was he going to do about it?
Chapter Five
As the string of lights cast a warm glow over the patio, Jenna found herself keenly aware that the One Stop would be closing soon and this wonderful day would have to come to an end. Ben’s easy smile and calm presence had made everything in her world seem… right. The idea of returning to a quiet, solitary cabin felt oddly empty.
Katie popped her head out the door. “I’ll be locking up, but I’m leaving the lights on. Stay as long as you like.”
“Thanks.” Ben waved at the woman, and turned to Jenna. “Do you need to be going home?”
Did she? “No.” She shook her head, pleased to see his smile widen.
“What about you? Your grandfather won’t be worried?”
“Nope. I texted him when Katie brought out the pie that I would be a bit longer.” He stood, brushing off his hands and offering her his arm. “Come with me. One of the best views in Lawford is just a short walk away. Daisy will vouch for it.”
Daisy’s ears perked up at the sound of her name. Eagerly, the dog rose, her tail wagging in agreement.
For a moment, Jenna hesitated, before slipping her hand into the crook of Ben’s arm, almost afraid that if she touched him, the world as she knew it would come crashing down.
The small dock she’d noticed boaters pulling up to earlier stretched out into the lake, its planks illuminated by faint moonlight. Ben led her to the end, where they sat side by side, their feet dangling just above the rippling water. Daisy settled beside them, her head resting on her paws, her gaze darting from the disappearing sun to her master and back.
“It won’t be long now.” Ben lifted his eyes heavenward.
“What won’t be long?”
“There.” His free arm lifted, pointing to the sky. “First star of the night.”
Like she did when she was a little girl, she closed her eyes and made a wish.
“And another.” His arm shifted, pointing to a different spot in the distance.
In what seemed like only a few moments, the sky was covered in shimmering diamonds. “We don’t see this in the city.”
“Nope,” Ben agreed. “Out here, the stars remind you how small your troubles really are. And how big your dreams can be.”
Jenna glanced at him, surprised by the wistfulness in his tone. “Do you have big dreams?”
His gaze fixed on the heavens, he hefted one shoulder in a casual shrug. “I used to. Then life happened. Family obligations, responsibilities…you know how it goes. But lately, I’ve been wondering if maybe it’s not too late to dream again.”
“I’m starting to believe that maybe it’s never too late. And this place…well, it feels like the kind of place where dreams really could come true.”
“What about you, what are your dreams?” Ben smiled, his eyes meeting hers.
“I suppose the same thing as anyone else. Successful career. A good man. And lots and lots of comfortable shoes.”
* * *
Ben burst out laughing. Had he ever met anyone like Jenna before? “You are full of surprises, aren’t you?”
With a gentle shrug, she smiled at him. “Show me a woman who doesn’t like shoes and I’ll show you a woman who hasn’t found herself yet.”
A chuckle rumbled in his chest. “Shoes, huh?”
She nodded.
“And all these years I thought it was all about flowers, and wine, and somewhere I read that all really women want is to dance.”
“I rest my case. Can’t dance without comfortable shoes.”
He couldn’t resist. As scared as he was to ruin this exquisite day with a stranger who felt like a lifelong friend, he reached over and took her hand in his. When she didn’t pull away, he laced his fingers with hers and quietly sat, feeling her warmth, watching the stars, and wondering if life had ever been more perfect.
For all he knew, they’d sat on the dock for ten minutes or ten hours. He hoped she didn’t want this to end any more than he did. “How long will you be staying?”
Her gaze met his. “I don’t know. Suddenly, getting back to the city doesn’t seem very important.”
If it was possible for a heart to do a somersault, his just did. “Do you have plans for tomorrow?”
Her head shook from left to right.
“I’d love to show you around town and the rest of the lake.”
“That sounds wonderful.”
“And then maybe dinner?”
She nodded.
Tempted to throw out dancing and more stargazing, he settled on enjoying the moment, the stars, the woman at his side, and the still small voice inside him that whispered welcome home.
