“Have you forgotten I’m five-three?”
“You could be a hand model.”
I look down at the hand that’s not currently holding my phone. “I don’t think so. I haven’t had a manicure in years, and my fingers are kind of stubby.”
Del snorts a laugh. “Okay, I’m just trying to get some ideas going.”
“And I’m grateful, because I really don’t have a clue what I’m going to do.” A flicker of nerves appears in my belly.
“What about that bookstore you’ve always wanted to open?”
“I’d need to save up more money for that.” I scratch the side of my nose. “It feels like a big risk. I think I just want to find a steady job and get settled first wherever it is I end up in.”
“That makes sense. Don’t worry, you’ll figure everything out. Today, you’ve got to celebrate. What are your Thanksgiving plans?”
“I was going to buy a frozen Thanksgiving dinner for one from Hy-Vee and watch a rerun ofPlanes, Trains, and Automobiles.”
“Gah. Stop. You’re making me depressed. I think you need company. Oh, I know! Go invite Rowan for dinner.”
“Are you crazy?” I glance out the window that faces his front yard. Hold on. “Actually… That’s not a bad idea.”
“I know.”
“He’s probably spending the day alone too. He’s got no family here, and it will give me a chance to repay him for everything he’s done for me before I leave.” It’s been a while since I cooked for more than just me. If I go to the store right now, I should be able to pull something together.
“I’m full of great ideas. Go get ’em, tiger.”
“Love you, bye.”
I’m in such a great mood that I don’t think about it twice. I slip on my Vans, jog over to Rowan’s, and knock on his door.
It’s cold out, so I hop from foot to foot while I wait for him to answer. I should have put my coat on.
Finally, the door opens, and Rowan appears on the other side.
My heart stutters inside my chest. His hair’s wet from a shower, his beard is freshly trimmed, and his eyelashes seem thicker in the afternoon light.
Given that I’m leaving soon, it feels okay to let myself appreciate just how stupidly handsome he is.
He eyes my thin T-shirt for a moment before lifting his gaze to my face.
“Hey. I wanted to—“
He steps aside. “Come in.”
“No, it’s okay, I just stopped by to see if you have plans for Thanksgiving.” My palms slide up and down my arms.
His gaze flashes with irritation. “Where is your coat? Do you want to freeze to death?”
“I’m fine. It’s not that bad.”
He rolls his eyes. “Your lips are turning blue.”
“Oh my God, I just came over to ask…” I get distracted when he starts unzipping his big black hoodie.
“Um, what are you—“
He takes it off, steps closer, and wraps it around my shoulders. “Here.”
