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Owen was grinning at them like a kid. “I have a great idea,” he said, waggling his finger between them. “You guys should have a Christmas competition.”
“What?” Jimmy said, turning to him.
“Yeah,” Brianna agreed. “Each of you hold your Christmas events, your arts and crafts, and your tree trimming,” she said, pointing at Jimmy. “And the event that raises the most money for Jenni’s rescue, wins.”
Jimmy nodded. “I like it. That’s a great idea.”
“No, it’s not.” Roni said instantly. What did they mean by competition?
They all looked at her with expectant gazes.
“Why not?” Brianna asked.
The corner of Jimmy’s mouth lifted. “Don’t tell me you’re afraid of a little competition? You’re afraid I’ll win, aren’t you?”
“No, of course not,” she said quickly. But was she?
“I should hope not; otherwise, you are not the Roni I used to know.” He winked. That same wink that always used to turn her insides to goo.
She glared at him. “Trust me, that girl is still in here.”Somewhere.
“Then what’s the problem?” he challenged.
She could feel the weight of all their stares. “No problem. What are the terms?”
“Easy,” Owen said. “By the night of the Caroling Kickoff, whoever has raised the most money for Jenni’s foundation is the winner.”
“I love this,” Brianna said. “I really do.”
“What do we win?” Roni persisted with skepticism heavy in her voice.
“The winner has to make the loser dinner—and not something cheesy like hot dogs. A real home-cooked meal,” Jimmy said.
“Can you even cook?” she asked with doubt heavy in her tone.
He leaned forward. “I make a mean steak Diane,” he insisted. “One taste, and you’ll be begging for more.”
She grinned and leaned toward him. “Well, then, I’m looking forward to tasting it.”
“It’s settled, then.” Brianna stood and pulled on her jacket. “We have to run. It’s been so good to see you again, Jimmy. I really hope you’re going to stick around for a while, and maybe even move back for good.”
“Maybe I will,” he said with a smile. “So far, my plans are up in the air.”
Roni was annoyed at the hope that surged through her at his words. How many times would she let this man hurt her? She had to toughen up. He still wasn’t committing to staying.
“Bye, love you guys,” Brianna said as she and Owen walked away.
Roni stood. “We should probably get going too.” She picked up the check.
“No, let me get that,” Jimmy said, reaching for it. “I said I’d buy you dinner.”
His smile sent little butterflies moving through her heart. She was a lost cause. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. It’s been good to see you again. To remember…” He didn’t finish.
He didn’t have to. She knew exactly what he meant. She had to stop herself from slipping her hand into his as they walked toward the cashier to pay for the pizza.
“I can’t believe this pizza parlor is still here, and the pizza still tastes the same.”
