“A fact she reminded me of many times.”
“So, what did you say?”
“I politely declined.”
“Because?” When I only stammered out some sounds, Brooke’s grin widened. “Does your reluctance have something to do with a certain cabinetmaker, perhaps?”
“No…”
She snorted a laugh. “Sure thing, Lolly. Well, the next time you justhappento bump into Aiden, can you put in a good word for me?” She tossed her hair off her shoulders. “I need all the help I can get with Harry.”
“You’re interested in him?”
“I’ve been prancing around for a year trying to get that man’s attention.”
“No bites?”
“Not even a nibble!”
“I’ll see what I can do,” I promised. “IfI happen to bump into Aiden.”
After waving goodbye, the fact I headed straight to the store had absolutely nothing to do with tempting fate. No. That wasn’t my plan at all.
The basket clutched in my hand swung empty as I wandered around the aisles, my mind lost, imagining how bristly Aiden’s beard would feel against my skin if he kissed me. It was a silly fantasy that plagued my thoughts more and more. Stopping in front of the baking section, my fingertips brushed over my bottom lip, a spark rippling over my skin.
I decided kissing Aiden would feelwonderful.
Still distracted, I tossed a bag of flour into my basket and turned the corner—only to halt, my heart stuttering to a stop just as I collided with a broad chest blocking my path.
I pushed my glasses up my nose. “I—I’m so s-sorry.”
“It’s okay.”
The rich rumble of Aiden’s voice rolled over me. I almost dropped my basket. “H-hi,” I said.
He squared his shoulders and tugged the buttons of his flannel shirt as if he were trying to make sure they were extra straight. “Evening, Lola. You, um…” He stuffed his hand in his pocket. “Is that one of your new outfits?”
Nodding, I suddenly became self-conscious, twisting my fingers in the belt of the floral dress. “It’s a little…much…”
“No. It’s nice. Pretty.”
“Thanks.” The word whooshed out of me.Nice.Pretty. I couldn’t remember the last time a man had complimented my outfit. My chest filled with a warmth as soft and satisfying as fresh pancakes out of the pan. “And thank you. For yesterday.”
His shoulder lifted. “No big deal.”
My heart would have sunk if his cheeks hadn’t darkened to a hot pink under his beard. Maybe itwasa big deal.
“I, um… I noticed your book,” I said. “In your car. I didn’t mean to peek. It was on your dashboard.The Count of Monte Cristo.” I nibbled on my bottom lip to stop the rambling.
“I like reading.”
“Me too! I haven’t read that one yet. I’m making my way through all the classics now that…”I’m allowed to waste time reading. I couldn’t say that, though. I hoped the smile I managed didn’t look forced. “I have more spare time for reading these days.”
“It’s a good book. Long, though.”
“What do you like about it?”
Aiden’s head tilted, thinking over my question. “It’s just… sort of… timeless.” His eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled. “Most people assume it’s only about revenge, but I think it’s about redemption. Finding hope where there shouldn’t be any. Finding…love.”
