Page 52 of The Matchmaker and the Marine

“We’ve talked about this, Adam. I can’t.”

Keeping his voice steady, he asked, “Do you think John would want you to spend the rest of your life alone?”

“I have a great life. Wonderful friends. I can travel where I like. I’m financially comfortable.”

“If you can find anyone a great match, you should seriously consider finding someone for yourself. At least someone to go to the movies with, or maybe out to dinner occasionally, and what about vacationing to some exotic part of the world? That would be great fun with someone special.” Adam wasn’t sure why he felt compelled to convince her to date.

She gave a soft chuckle. “Well, a funny thing happened this week. One of my clients called to ask me out. Even after I found him a great match, he asked me to think about it.”

Adam felt his jaw clench. “And then what happened?”

“I very politely turned him down and encouraged him to go out on the date. I think they’re going to get along very well.”

Adam said, “We’re friends, right?”

She laughed. “Good friends. But Nick and I are not friends. Besides, I’m sure the last thing you’d think about is hitting on me. I’m not your type at all.”

Chapter 20

Melinda watched as Adam blanched. She was by his side in two quick steps. “Adam, what’s wrong? Are you in pain?”

With a frown, he said, “I’m fine.”

“Should I call the hospital to see if you can take your pain meds early?”

“No. It’s not my hand that’s giving me a problem.” He brought his eyes up to meet hers. “I’m shocked that you’d think we’re not compatible.”

“What?” She sat down, dumbfounded.

“Wait, that didn’t come out right.” He seemed to fumble for what he wanted to say. “Over the last few weeks, we’ve become close. If there wasn’t some sort of chemistry or connection, we wouldn’t have any kind of a relationship.”

Stunned, she asked, “Are you asking me out?” Her heart thudded in her chest.

“All I’m saying is you’re an amazing woman. If I had met you before asking you to be my matchmaker, I would have asked for your number.”

Stuttering she said, “I-I don’t know what to say.” She began to arrange items on the top of his coffee table.

“Melinda. Relax.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “No need to get all flustered.”

“I’m not.” She was mildly annoyed he could read her so well. “You haven’t eaten your snack yet.”

He picked up the milk and downed it in one long gulp. He grinned. “How’s that?”

Hearing a car door close, she crossed to the window that overlooked the driveway. “Stacey’s home. I’m going to run down and see if she’ll run me to my place. I can bring back dinner and have my car for later.”

“When you tell her what happened, please assure her I’m fine. She tends to worry about me.”

“I won’t be gone long.” She placed his cell phone within easy reaching distance. “If you need something call.”

“When will you be back?”

“About an hour, if not before.” She watched him closely, looking for signs of distress. “I’m going to put a casserole together at my house and bring it back. It will be better for you than takeout.”

“I don’t want you to fret over me.” His voice was stern.

“I hear that disapproving tone in your voice, mister, and I’ll do as I please,” she teased.

“If that’s the case, can you swing by the store and pick up something for dessert?” He wiggled his eyebrows, causing Mel to laugh. “After the day I’ve had, I deserve something decadent.”

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