Page 89 of His Curvy Distraction

“Yes?”

“You have a visitor, Mr. Mayor. She promises to be quick.”

“Okay,” I said, my heart jumping. A smile lifted my lips even before the door opened and revealed Natalie. “What are you doing here?”

She walked right to me and stepped into my arms without hesitation. “When I have something big like this, I get nervous. A hug from someone I care about helps. I took a risk that it would be good for you, too.”

I held her tight and inhaled the strawberry and marker scent of her. My heart rate slowed and my body relaxed. “How do you do that?”

“Years of therapy and lots of meds,” she said with a chuckle.

“Really?”

She shrugged, looking embarrassed about her admission.

“No judgement. I just didn’t know.”

“Anxiety is a bitch. Sometimes it’s worse than others. I don’t do well when I have to talk to strangers. Adults. I’m fine with kids, but I had a panic attack and threw up before my first open house night when I was a new teacher. Same before parent-teacher conferences. First day of school, I was fine. Kids only? I’m set. But parents? Nope.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. It’s just a part of my story. And I’m not here to complain about me. I’m here to help you relax.”

I quirked an eyebrow at her. “Oh, really?”

She pushed me away. “Not that relaxed.”

“Aw, man.”

She chuckled and smoothed the lapels of my suit. “Are you ready?”

“No,” I admitted. “Goldie was here yesterday and suggested it. Said she thought it would be good to get my side out there.”

“She’s right. I wouldn’t have thought of it, but it’s a good idea.”

“I was checking up on you,” I confessed.

“You were what?” she blurted.

“I wanted to know how things are going with the fundraiser and afraid to ask you. Goldie set me straight. I want to know about the fundraiser. And about your day. And everything about you.”

Natalie’s face softened. She nodded and stepped into my arms again. “Okay.”

I held her tight, letting her presence relax me and remind me I was good at what I did and I believed in not only myself, but my staff and the town.

“You’re going to be amazing,” Natalie whispered. “You are so good for this town, and people know that.”

“Thank you for coming.”

“You’re welcome.”

She pulled back and lifted on her toes to kiss me. We kept it chaste and simple, but I wanted more. I always wanted more from her.

“I’m gong to go before the reporter comes, but good luck. Kick ass. And remember how awesome you are.”

“Thank you, Natalie.”

“You’re welcome.” She smiled, holding my hand as she walked toward the door. When she was too far away to hold on, she squeezed my hand, then let go.

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