Page 59 of The Matchmaker and the Marine

He sat down with a smirk. “You’re the boss.”

She gave him an annoyed looked before saying, “The doctor said you’re healed?’

“He did.” Adam was done talking about his medical issues. “How’s business?”

“Brisk. If I didn’t know better, I would swear it was spring.”

“I don’t understand. What’s special about spring?” he asked.

“People come out of hibernation and all thoughts turn to love, especially after Valentine’s Day.”

He cocked his head. “I had no idea.”

She kicked off her sandals and wiggled her bright pink toes. “Statistics show most people are anxious for warm weather and new adventures. Hence higher numbers of first dates in the spring, and most break-ups happen before the holidays to avoid that awkwardness of taking someone home to meet the family. You get through the holidays solo, cocoon for the winter months and say hello in spring again.” She tilted her head back and closed her eyes. “So, statistically speaking, I should be slowing down as we’re sliding into fall and winter.”

He liked listening to her talk about business, with a touch of sass. “Does that mean if you meet someone now it won’t last?”

Without looking at him she said, “Not at all. It typically takes one to two years to know if someone will really fit into your life.”

“Well, that’s good. I wouldn’t want to be setting myself up to fail.”

“Adam,” she chuckled, “you’re a great catch.” She dropped her head and leveled her gaze at him. “Have you talked to Beth?”

“No. With this happening”— he held up his hand — “I haven’t felt much like putting the effort into dating.”

“Maybe you should say something to her. She’s probably wondering if you fell off the end of the earth. Or you decided you didn’t want to go out again.”

Adam heard a subtle reproach in Mel’s voice. “You’re right. I’ll call her tonight. What about you and that guy, the client you said hit on you? Have you heard if things went well with his match?”

Her eyebrow arched. “Actually, I heard from Nick and Gretchen. Things are going well for them.”

Mildly curious he asked, “He didn’t ask you out again?”

“No, I was pretty firm.” Melinda stood up. “I have to get back into the office and finish up some computer work. Before I do, I’ll help you haul out whatever tools you need.”

Adam’s gazed slid up and down. “I don’t think so. Pale pink top and white pants. You’ll be wearing grease and grime from head to toe.”

“I’m washable,” she said pointedly.

“All you need to do is unlock the door and we can both get back to work.”

Melinda paused. “You’re kind of bossy you know?”

He gave a hearty laugh. “Military training. Lots of practice at both giving and receiving them.” He pointed to her back door. “Now, if you would so kindly open the door, I can get back to work.”

She stormed toward the house, but over her shoulder she laughed, “Catch you later.”

As soon as she went inside Adam began taking measurements. Concentrating on the tape he didn’t notice Will had come around the corner of Melinda’s garage. “Adam.” Will held up his tool belt. “Thought I’d lend you a hand.” He snickered. “No pun intended.”

Adam frowned. “That’s a bad joke.”

“What do you have left to do?” Will glanced at the structure and gave a low, appreciative whistle. “When Stacey sees this, I’m in trouble. She’s going to want one in our backyard.”

Adam gave him a sidelong look and chuckled. “That can be arranged. For a price.”

Casually Will said, “Have you seen Melinda today?”

“Why?”

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