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Was I curious how good it would be?
Yes.
Did I imagine it?
Often.
Especially after that night.
I’d often lie in bed thinking about the way he’d said my name. The commanding demeanor he’d adopted that was so different from his usual persona.
But I was on track to move to Japan at the end of July. And even if I weren’t, the situation was too complicated.
So, I tried to ignore my attraction to Tristan by burying myself in my studies and preparing content. I used the kids as a distraction.
It was nice… Normal, even. At least when we didn’t have to do the weekly dinner with my parents. After that first disastrous attempt, we’d taken some time off. More recently, we’d been meeting at Fall River Estates or Larkspur. Public places forced everyone to be on their best behavior, and my mom seemed to delight in showing off her family. Well, her family that wasn’t me.
I sighed and tried to focus on my assignment, a seemingly impossible task. Despite my best efforts, it was as if I was attuned to Tristan’s every movement. To his very presence.
I finally gave up and opened a new browser window on my phone and navigated toThe Vine.V’s new advice column was surprisingly thoughtful and well written. The ax throwing place was having a grand opening soon. Tristan was planning to meet Asher, Bennett, and Liam.
I kept scrolling but paused when I came to an image of the hardware store. The post was titled “Nailed It!”
Huh. Okay.I read on.
Tired of dating apps? Looking for love the old-fashioned way?
In some cities, Starbucks is the place to meet a new love interest. Here in the AV, we do things a little differently. If you’re in the market for love, look no further than Screw This hardware supply. Judging from this past weekend alone, it might be the best place for both finding a screwdriver and someone to…ahem. Well, you get the drift.
I wanted to laugh, but then Tristan’s name caught my eye. And the more I read, the angrier I became.
Tristan Lockwood was seen helping several women with their needs. Who can resist a sexy single dad who’s good with his hands? It’s good to see him getting back out there.
Getting back out there?
V,The Vine, all of it was so dumb. She, whoever she was, clearly had it all wrong. He spent all his time with the kids and me. I would’ve known if he were dating, wouldn’t I? I mean, the way he looked at me…
Watch out!I read, unable to stop myself.It looks like the AV’s hottest bachelor is back in the game.
Hottest bachelor? I snorted. I mean, I didn’t disagree, but still…I couldn’t believe V would write something like that. Actually, considering this wasThe Vine, I could.
I’d been featured once—a story about my homecoming—but that was it. And I hoped it would stay that way. I worked hard to cultivate my image and build relationships with my followers online.The Vinewas a loose cannon. And I could only imagine how Gloria would react ifgosh forbidI did anything scandalous.
I snorted at the idea. My mere existence posed a threat to her image as the perfect mayor. The mayor’s husband’s secret love child? Ooh boy. That would turn some heads.
But the town’s golden boy and widower with his late wife’s younger sister? I shook my head. I could only imagine everyone’s response. Shock. Disappointment. Disgust.
Even so, it was difficult to ignore the anger and jealousy coursing through me at the thought of Tristan “helping” all these other women with their “needs.” I had no claim to him. No right to feel jealous, and yet, I did.
I was so distracted, I hadn’t realized Tristan had come downstairs and was padding into the kitchen. “Hey, Ellie. I have a favor to ask. Two, actually.”
I jabbed the power button on my phone. “Sure. What’s up?” I asked, hoping he hadn’t seen what had been on my screen.
“I, um—” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I wondered if you’d be willing to give me a haircut.”
I blinked at him a few times, positive he was joking. When I realized he wasn’t, I said, “Oh, you’re serious.” I laughed. “I’m flattered. But why not just go to Mane Street or wherever?”
“I just—” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I can’t.Don’twant to.”
