Page 14 of The Hot New Bachelor in Town

“Ah,” I say.

“You’re the hot new bachelor in town,” she says. “But I’m sure you’ll be okay!”

“I think I’ll risk it.” I take a step toward the door. “Thank you again.”

“No problem.”

I reach the exit, then pause as a whiff of that perfume touches my nostrils again. A phantom thread tugs me back and a sudden thought takes hold.

“You want to come with?” I ask her.

Mika sits up in her chair. “Oh, no. No, thank you. I’m the only one here, so...”

“Do you have any other guests?” I ask.

Her lips press together. “… No. It’s just you.”

“Then, come on. I’m sure the proprietor of a fancy establishment like this knows her way around town.”

“I do, but?—”

“So, come on. Give me the grand tour.”

Mika hesitates, giving her bottom lip a bite. “Fine,” she says, standing up. “But just for a little while.”

I smile.

5

MIKA

It’s a nice night for a walk.

To tell the truth, I don’t remember the last time I even took one. For the last while, I’ve been a Bruno’s waitress by day and manager of the inn by night. The rest of my time is spent sleeping, eating, or panicking over bills. Sometimes all three at once.

I lead him south along Main Street, taking him toward the center of town. The town square comes into view, the central gazebo prominent and well-lit, shining lights on the streets surrounding it. The shops and businesses are closed, their lights off and doors secured. Not a soul in sight.

Except Carter.

And me.

“What’s this place like in-season?” Carter asks.

“Much more lively,” I answer. “There’s special town events almost every night, so everything stays open late. At the inn, we have paddle boats so guests can take them out on the lake to sit out under the stars.” I smile wider. “Every year, someone gets engaged on the lake during Fourth of July fireworks. It’s cheesy, but… it’s actually kinda nice. It’s a good time.”

I look at him, admiring his smile as we walk, then quickly look away before he notices.

“So, what do you do?” I ask.

“What do I do?”

“You said today was the most important day of your career. I’m just curious. What do you do?”

“I am a consultant,” he answers. “I work in mergers and acquisitions for private equity firms.”

I blink twice, and he laughs.

“Basically, I tell rich people with more money than they know what to do with, what to do with their money.”

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