Page 8 of Beards and Broken Hearts

“She is unbelievably-” he starts, but I interrupt him with a glare.

“Attractive.” Jenson finishes with no remorse.

My fists clench, but I nod as I make my way to the front of the deli. I hate that he’s right. It would be so much easier if the only woman I’ve ever loved, and the one I know I’ve hurt beyond repair, wasn’t so damn beautiful.

Not that it changes anything. She’ll never forgive me, and I accept that. Hopefully, we can avoid each other. That’s best for everyone here.

Even as I tell myself I never want to see her again, I can’t help but think about the woman I saw today and wonder about her life since I’ve seen her last. She’s taller, and her hair is darker and cut a little shorter now that I’m viewing her in the light of day, but those eyes will always be burned into my memories. Those curves are definitely new, and that is the reason I have been tossing and turning all night with little to no sleep. I know there is no way we would ever get back together, but that doesn’t stop my dreams from showing me how good it would be if we did.

CHAPTER FIVE

Daphne

Magnolia Market is buzzing with fresh produce, fresher gossip, and the random bee that always seems to make its way into the quaint little store.

Happy to leave the heat of the September sun behind me, I walk through the doors, welcome the air-con, grab a cart, and head for the dairy section to grab some milk. My sister has an addiction to milk and cookies and seems to partake in them every night, leaving me with little to no milk the next morning. I swing the glass door open, grab a gallon, and then move on to yogurt and cheese before heading down the next aisle.

Everyone seems to be discussing the upcoming Beard competition at the local bar. Holly mentioned going, but I’m the introvert out of the two of us and want to skip it.

“I’m sure he’ll win again this year. Have you seen how long it’s gotten?” I hear a woman say before she snickers.

“And it’s oh so thick,” Another woman adds, and the two fall into a fit of giggles.

Their voices sound older than I would expect of two gossiping chickens who are clearly ranting about their appreciation of a man. I find myself too curious not to keep following their voices.

“Now, ladies, that Jenson is bringing a strong game this year, and as you know, the two are close friends. I imagine there will be strong competition this year from both. Will be so hard for us all to pick just one winner,” An older woman announces with humor in her voice.

I hear more snickering before I round the corner to the produce, where I spot three women with white fluffy hair talking to Elenore.

“Now, you all hush. It’s any man’s game. I will say I will be attending along with-” Elenore stops short when she spots me heading her way. Granted, I’m moving as slowly as possible, trying to eavesdrop, which I now realize was very rude.

“Daphne!” Elenore exclaims, waving me over to her group.

My cheeks heat as I join them, regretting my earlier decision to investigate. Curiosity killed the cat, and I would do well to remember that. The last thing I need is to involve myself in small town gossip. There’s always a side you have to choose. This new girl doesn’t have enough street cred with the townfolk to choose wrong, and that’s just too much pressure.

“Who is Daphne?” I hear one woman ask softly.

“Daphne dear, it’s so nice to run into you again,” Elenore says. “This is my dear, sweet friend and wedding dress designer, ladies. I’ll have you know she’s making me a one of kind dress for my big day.” Elenore pulls me into her small side with affection as she beams her mega proud smile.

At the moment, I smile back at her, but a large part of me is anxious she’s not going to like the dress. Nothing would feel worse than letting this kind woman down. She clearly believes in me, but I’m crippled in fear, causing me restless nights without sleep over it.

“Nice to meet you all,” I tell the group with a shy wave.

“Oh, you too, sweetheart. I’m Cora, and this is Gretchen and Judith. We’ve all been friends for too long, so we forget our manners sometimes. Please forgive Gretchen.” The tallest of the women tells me with an outstretched hand.

We shake hands, and Gretchen apologizes. “We are so happy you’ve moved to our little town, dear. I meant nothing by it. Just didn’t know ya.”

“I understand. It’s really no problem. Nice to meet you all.”

Judith shakes my hand last and starts talking about tonight's Beard competition. “You’ll have men literally lined up for you to pick from. It’s a girl’s dream come true.”

“Maybe not this girl. No thanks. I’m too busy for one bearded man, let alone a bar full.”

“Leave Daphne alone, girls. She’s an innocent bystander,” Elenore says, linking my arm with hers. She pulls me away from the crowd, and we walk a short distance before she continues. “But you could just look. I mean, if you wanted to. It’s my bachelorette party. I have never had one before. I’d love it if you could come. Bring Holly. Drinks are on me.” Her big eyes shine with hope, and I can’t think of a single excuse, so I cave in.

“Oh, okay, why not? It’s just a little fun. Holly is always saying I should get out more.”

Elenore drops my arm and claps with glee. “Perfect. I’ll be by to pick you ladies up in style. My man rented us the fancy town limo, so dress your best.”

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