“No. I can’t do that. I do love this place. You’re right, it has to be a misunderstanding. Eavesdropping, overhearing, it’s probably not the whole story.”
“Exactly. We’re okay, right?”
“Absolutely.”
“I’m going to head back, then. There’s a ton to do. Call me. Any time. I’m here for you.”
“Okay.”
“And if you need me to come to get you, I’ll drive straight back. Got it?”
“Yes. You are so sweet. Thank you. Thank you so much for everything. I can’t believe I was so lucky to have met you through all of this.”
“Everything happens for a reason. I didn’t know what I was looking for until I met you.” He turned and left on that note.
She stood there, letting it sink in, as he walked away.
She spent the next several hours with the puppy, practicing a few commands in between playtime. “Sit” was going well, “shake” was coming along, but “stay” was nearly impossible.
“What am I going to name you?”
It was easy to set her concerns aside with this little bundleof joy entertaining her. He ran, ran, ran, ran, and then would fall asleep. Most of the time on his back, with his little feet in the air; it was adorable. She already had at least ten pictures of him sleeping, and it was only their second day together.
She sent a puppy picture to Randy. He hearted it immediately.
Her fingers hovered over her phone.
I want more with you,she whispered. She was tempted to type it but then laid down her phone. She was too emotional to make any decisions right now.
She lay down on the floor with the puppy and fell asleep until her phone woke her. “Hello?”
“Natalie, it’s Jesse.”
“Hi, Jesse.”
“Mr. Grandstaff asked me if I could contact you and have you drive your truck over to his place. Says we’re going to load you up with beehives.” Jesse’s laugh touched her. “I hope you’re ready for all that.”
“I think I am. I have absolutely no idea what it involves, but I love the idea of painting them. I think they’ll look really cute. I just hope the bees will love them too.”
“I have a feeling he’ll make an apiarist out of you if you’re not careful.”
“An apiarist?”
“Bee-loving beekeeper,” Jesse said. “I’m headed to Mr. Grandstaff’s now, if you’re not busy you could meet me there.”
“Sure. I’m on my way.” She got up and grabbed a couple of water bottles and a bowl to take with her for the dog. “We’re going for a ride.”
He yawned and plodded along behind her.
In the truck, he resumed his nap.
The gate was open when she got to Paul’s, so she drove on up to the house. Jesse and Paul stood in front, talking.
“How are you two today?” she called as she got out.
“Good to see you.” Paul waved a bony hand. “I’m so happy you’re interested in the bees. I’ll teach you everything you need to know.”
“I’ll try my best.”
