Page 8 of The Hot New Bachelor in Town

“But I can go there now and get a room?”

“Uh,” I pause, realizing the trip in logic. “It’s not very busy right now. It’s currently off-season. Very quiet.”

“Off-season?”

“Post Valentines, pre-wedding season. Not a lot going on in Small Town right now.”

“Right. Well, thank you,” he says, standing up. “I’ll head there now.”

“Great. That’s… great.”

He opens his wallet and hands me some cash. “You can keep the change.”

“Thank you…” I blink twice at it. “Sir, this is a fifty-dollar bill.”

“Right.”

“Your tab is thirteen dollars.”

“What can I say?” He shrugs as he picks up his suitcase from beneath the table. “I’m feeling generous today.”

I stuff it in my apron. “Thank you, sir.”

He takes a step forward, then stops, briefly turning back to me. “Are you wearing perfume?” he asks.

“Uh, yeah.” I sniff my wrist. “Why? Is it too strong? I kinda had to rush out the door this morning.”

“No,” he says. “It’s nice.”

I blush. “Well, thanks.”

He walks off, taking the map with him.

“Have a good day!” I say as the entrance bell chimes behind him.

I rush to the window to watch him cross the street, his head going up and down as he orientates himself with the map.

Then, I run.

“Bruno!” I shout, bolting into the kitchen toward the back door. “I’m taking my break!”

“All right, hun,” I hear him mutter as Lottie and Tish whisper, “Where is she going?”

I don’t bother explaining. I run out the back and through the alleyway, taking a right turn as I reach the sidewalk. With an eye on the square, I watch as the handsome man attempts a wide berth away from the yogis, who eagerly wave to summon him in their direction.

Yes, horny, bendy ladies!

Keep him busy!

Crossing to the next street over, I sprint through lawns and backyards to reach the inn before he can.

Two Hearts Inn.

The family business.

“Papa!” I plow through the front door. “Red alert!”

He’s not at the front desk, nor is he in the sitting room. I rush around the desk, hoping to find him in the back office.

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