Page 50 of Falling for Keeps

“You’re done with the chairs, aren’t you?” Carson says.

My eyes cut to him. Does the man want me there? He’s being too friendly and it’s going to start confusing the heck out of me. “Yeah, they’re finished.”

“No pressure,” he says, “but you’re welcome to join us. I’ve heard the mini donuts are unreal.”

“Says the dentist?”

“We’ll have a communal tooth brushing party after.”

“I’ll bring the floss.”

“That’s weird,” Penny says. “I just want a pumpkin and donuts.”

“You will brush tonight, though,” he says.

“Duh.”

He squeezes her around the shoulders. “We’ll probably head out soon if you want to join us, Emma, but no pressure.”

“Please come!” Penny says, negating his words entirely.

“I’m kind of a mess right now.”

“You might want a warmer coat.” Carson looks me up and down in a way that makes me squirm. “But you look great.”

“Now I know you’re full of it. Sure, I’ll come.” Because I’m a sucker for punishment, Carson, and maple mini donuts, of course.

Carson heads across the road, holding Penny’s hand. “Meet you out here in twenty?”

“Okay.” I gather my tools to put away in the detached garage, then carry the can of stain to the shed. My phone vibrates a handful more times, so I pull it out when I head inside to dress warmer. There are a few messages from Seth.

Seth

Dinner tomorrow night?

I was thinking the Maple Bar and Grill.

The wedding was a lot of fun, and I want to see you again.

I can’t help myself. I type out a response.

Emma

I’ll see you tomorrow at work, won’t I?

Seth

Ha. Ha. Ha. I mean, I’d like to SEE you again. Friday???

I stare at my phone, unsure of what this means. He wants to date me, that’s no secret. I’d figured after our first time together at the wedding, he’d get his fill and stop feeling the need to chase me. That’s what happened last time, and I’m prepared for history to repeat itself. I’m not going to sit around and wait for him once he’s already moved on.

Unless he really has changed.

Emma

Okay

Seth