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“Wait,” he stammered. “We just pretended so the love guides would be happy and not ruin the night for the other couples.”
Her eyes widened. “Daniel, what will it take for you to wake up and stop taking life for granted? Love doesn’t come along every day, trust me. I know.”
“I appreciate your concern but don’t need your help.”
She shook her head, her lips curved downward. “I’m afraid you need my help more than you know. Unfortunately, I’m off to Paris for a week; you’re on your own. I hope you don’t mess it up with Suzy for your sake.”
“Paris?”
“Yes, the flowers are in bloom there. It’s such a lovely city, and I must paint it.”
He cracked a smile. “You can’t paint here?”
“Of course not, darling.” She waved her hand dramatically. “I must be inspired. Don’t worry. I’ll return Friday morning just in time for Suzy’s first show. In the meantime, don’t mess it up with her. Take life—
“I understand, but it won’t work.”
She shook her head. “Daniel, you’re such a disappointment sometimes.” She embraced him and kissed his cheeks one more time. “I must leave. Paris waits for me.”
He nodded, feeling an odd sensation. He was going to miss her. Strange.
“Have fun,” he said.
“You too, darling.” She turned and pranced her way out of his office.
Chapter eleven
Suzy untied her apron and hung it up. “I’m heading to the gallery now.”
Joann glanced up from the front counter. “I want to ask you a personal question, but you can tell me it’s none of my business.”
“It’s not about Daniel, is it?” Suzy groaned.
It seemed like everyone and their dog was interested in their relationship. It was annoying, to say the least. Megan didn’t shy away from giving her opinion. Even Mr. Peterson had strongly suggested to her that Daniel seemed like a respectable guy.
The love guides, Bob and Beth, insisted they belonged together. Let’s not forget Harold and his opinion that they were destined to be together. Vivian Cline had even schemed to get them together.
“Kind of.” Joann nervously tapped her fingers on the counter. “I was wondering how long you will stick around here.”
“What?” Suzy’s brow furrowed together as her body tensed. “Why would you even ask that?”
“I’ve gotten used to you, and I don’t want to lose you, but you did sell two paintings. If you keep this up, you won’t need a job here.”
“I could never leave this place or you,” Suzy said, her shoulders relaxed. I love teaching the kids and you. If anything, I might have to cut my hours a little, but that’s not anytime soon, I promise. I’m afraid you’re stuck with me.”
“That’s great to hear because I kind of like you too.” Joann sighed the pent-up breath she’d been holding.
Suzy laughed. “Kind of?”
“All right,” Joann said, shrugging. “I adore you, and so do the children.” She stood and walked around the counter. “Have fun with Daniel.”
“It’s purely professional,” Suzy firmly said, more to herself than anyone.
Since Thursday, she hadn’t seen him. He texted to tell her he had a good time, loved the painting she gave him, and was excited for her show. He hadn’t said anything about their relationship, where it was going, or even if they had one.
She bit her lip. Thursday night had all been pretend.
“See you tomorrow,” she said, heading out into the bright sun. She loved the spring. More flowers were popping out, the leaves on the trees were a lush green, and the sun was warm as it danced on her skin.
