Page 19 of Commit

CHAPTER 10

REMI

TWO YEARS AGO

I hold up a swatch of paint colors against the wall and tilt my head, examining them. A tilting head should do the trick, and then maybe I will finally be able to choose a color for my yoga studio. It’s now or never since opening day is next week, and I need to make sure I have time to paint the space, hang the mirrors, and air it out before my first class. Paint fumes won’t add to anyone’s zen experience.

“Hey, Remi?” Jana says, standing in the doorway. “There’s a cowboy here to see you.”

I narrow my eyes at my best friend. “A cowboy?”

She looks over her shoulder back to where the front door is. “Yeah, a cowboy.”

“Can you get rid of him?”

“I don’t think you want me to get rid of this one.”

I know I live in Texas, but this is the first time I’ve ever had a cowboy door-to-door salesman.

“Fine.” I drop the swatches on the folding table holding all my junk and walk to the front.

“Good afternoon, miss.”

Matt is standing there with a bouquet of flowers in his hand. He’s wearing a plaid shirt, a cowboy hat, a belt buckle, and tight Wranglers that do way too many good things for his body. If it were appropriate, I would ask him to spin around to get the full 360 view.

I lean against the doorframe and fold my arms. “I thought you said you didn’t own a cowboy hat or a belt buckle.”

“It’s a new investment.”

Play it cool, Rem. Do not start thinking about how this is the cutest thing a man has ever done for you. Save those thoughts and squeals for after he leaves.

I press my lips together. “What are you doing here?”

“Seeing if you’ve changed your mind and want some help painting.”

“From a cowboy?”

“Why not?”

We’ve only been on two dates. It’s not Matt’s responsibility to help me get my yoga studio ready for the opening. This is my dream. I’ve been saving up for it for five years. I started this thing on my own, and I can finish it without anyone’s help.

“Nope. Sorry. Besides, I wouldn't want you to get paint on your new clothes.”

“Eh, they’re from the thrift store and smell like moths.”

I snort out a laugh, causing the cutest smile to form on Matt’s lips.

“I thought you’d say that I couldn’t help paint, so I brought you some dinner instead.” He lifts his other hand, showing a plastic bag full of takeout.

Dang.

He’s thoughtful.

And persistent.

He’s got me falling for him hook, line, and sinker. I should know better than to grow attached to a guy.

“What’s for dinner?” I ask.

---