AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I almost let out a sigh but suppress it. “Thanks for asking, but I can’t. My son and the bookstore take up all my time.”
He stares at me for a moment, then smiles. “I’m going to keep trying until you say yes.”
Packing his purchase into a paper bag, I hold it out to him. “It will be a waste of your time. I’m not interested in dating at all.”
“I’m sure I can change your mind.”
Geez, dude. Stop already!
When I don’t reply quickly enough, he adds, “You can bring your son to dinner. I won’t mind.”
Trying to remain polite, I say, “Thank you for the invite but no. I’m really not interested.”
“Okay. I’ll accept defeat this time.” He gives me a flirty smile. “But I’ll see you soon.”
Dammit.
He walks to the door, then looks at me again. “By the way, I’m Barry.”
I don’t give him my name and just half-heartedly wave so he’ll leave.
When the door jingles behind him, I let out a sigh and shake my head before getting back to work.
When I’m done sorting the new books, I place them in a cart and head toward the aisles.
“Mommy, I need to wee,” Vincent calls from his corner.
“I’m coming, baby.” I shove a book into an open slot and hurry to the back. “Let’s get you to the restroom.”
I take him to the back and point to his little potty.
“Wait for me,” he orders as he pulls down his shorts.
“I’m not going anywhere,” I assure him. Even though he wets the floor, I still praise him. “You’re such a big boy.”
I wait for him to pull up his shorts and open the faucet so he can wash his hands.
“Mommy’s big little man,” I murmur lovingly.
“Tsk.” He gives me a frown. “I can’t be big and little at the same time.”
Letting out a chuckle, I say, “You’re right. You’re just Mommy’s big boy.”
We walk back to his corner, and I ask, “Are you hungry?”
He shakes his head and lies down on his tummy to continue coloring in the picture.
When I turn around to get back to work, it’s to see Barry coming into the store with flowers.
Dear God. The man doesn’t understand the meaning of no.
Barry gives me a grin that would make most women swoon. “I’m back for round two, hoping I can change your mind.”
When he holds the red roses out to me, I shake my head. “I’m not going to accept the flowers, and I won’t change my mind. I’m really happy with my life and would appreciate it if you stopped trying.”
“Look, I’m a nice guy. Would it hurt you to have one dinner with me?”
I let out a sigh, and lifting my hand, I rub my forehead. Giving it one final try, I say, “I still love the father of my child, and I always will. There’s no place in my heart or life for another man.”
