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Ryder looked out at the white house with black shutters surrounded by a white picket fence. “Have you been here before?”
I shook my head.
“Really? I thought for sure you had. This place has you written all over it.”
I could understand why he might think that, but even when we were together before and I had lots of disposable income, I wouldn’t ever expect or even want him to take me to such a place. “It’s pricey and—”
“We aren’t worried about price tonight.” He took my hand and held it between his own. “You are worth it all.”
That was sweet but, “You know I don’t expect to be taken to fancy restaurants.”
He leaned over and skimmed my lips. “I know, but I’ve always wanted to be able to do this for you.”
I ran my hand across his cheek. “Ryder Prescott, you are a sweet man.”
He pulled me to him for a brief kiss before whispering against my lips, “If you knew what was going through my head right now looking at you, you wouldn’t think so.”
“You should hear what I’ve been thinking about you.”
“Mmm,” he groaned. “I’m going to need to step out of this vehicle before I give in to temptation and make us very late.”
“If you must.” I leaned away from him.
He, on the other hand, drew me back to him and pressed his lips against mine for a stirring moment before pulling away and jumping out of the vehicle. He ran around to my side, opened the door, and offered his hand to help me out. I noticed he purposely averted his eyes when it came to my legs.
We walked hand in hand under the trellis dripping in lilacs to enter the property. Not only did the scent of lilacs linger in the air, but the smell of divine cuisine wafted on the light breeze. It was all picturesque with hanging lanterns in the trees and a lighted brick-paved pathway. I noted how pleased Ryder looked that he could afford to take me to such a place. I never realized how much of a concern that truly was to him. But I was honest in saying I didn’t need this. What I cared about was that we were together. He could have taken me to Burger Shack for all I cared. I was just as happy to share fries with him as I would be to dine on filet mignon. But I leaned into him, happy he was happy.
He kissed my head. “What do you think of this place?”
“It’s nice.”
“Nice, she says.” He chuckled.
The Halstroms were already seated when we arrived inside the exquisite little place made of stone walls and plank wood floors. The low lighting made it feel even cozier.
Wes and Deidre both stood when we arrived at the small table near the hearth that did not bear a blazing fire but glowed from the hundreds of twinkle lights within. They were an attractive couple, probably in their mid to late forties. Wes was tall with an athletic build and Deidre was petite with a crown of auburn hair. Both, though, looked welcoming and greeted Ryder as if he were an old friend. Wes gave him a hearty handshake and Deidre hugged him and kissed his cheek.
Ryder was quick to introduce me. “This is my fian . . . Shelby Duchane,” he corrected himself. I was taken aback by him almost introducing me as his fiancée. I hoped that meant he was thinking along those lines. I knew we were starting over, but I already knew where I wanted to end up.
Wes and Deidre offered me warm smiles. Deidre was obviously an affectionate person and wrapped her arms around me. “It’s so nice to finally meet you.”
Finally? Had Ryder talked about me with them?
“The pleasure is mine,” I responded.
Wes shook my hand once his wife released me. “It’s nice to meet you, Shelby. I’m glad to see Ryder’s move out here has proved to be more than just financially equitable.”
Ryder gave me a crooked grin before pulling out the heavy rustic wood chair for me. Once everyone was seated, Wes announced, “This calls for a toast.” He hailed the waiter dressed in a suit and tie and ordered a very expensive bottle of champagne. I recognized it as it was one of my mother’s favorites. She loved the hint of lemon and berries in it. As soon as the order was placed, Wes directed his attention toward me. “Before I start to grill Ryder here about how my investment is going, tell us what you do.”
“Currently I own and run a clothing boutique in town, M&M’S on Main.”
“Ooh,” Deidre squealed to my right. “The concierge at our hotel suggested I visit your store. I had no idea you owned it.”
I smiled, happy to know the store was being touted. “Please do. I should be there all day tomorrow.”
