Like he had this inner glow. It was a spark that attracted me to him like nothing else.

Like a moth to a flame.

I wondered if this attraction would prove just as deadly. Shivers ran down my spine and he looked at me, concern on his face.

“You cold?”

“Oh, no. I’m fine.” I assured him.

“Sure? Oh, crap. They only take cash.”

“Crap. I forgot. Um, I can Venmo you?—”

“What? I’m not taking your money, Sugarplum,” he growled, and I had the distinct feeling I’d offended him.

“There’s an ATM,” I suggested, biting my lip.

“Okay, I can take some cash out. Be a good girl and wait for me right here, Sugarplum,” he growled, squeezing my hand before letting it go.

“Of course,” I whispered back.

Someone cleared their throat behind me, but my ears were still buzzing because of that look on Max’s face. Like he didn’t want to leave me for even a second.

I was getting way too caught up in my own head. This was just a date. Making it out to be more was a mistake. Sure, Max came on strong, but that didn’t mean he was looking for more than whatever this was.

It had been a long time for me. But I was single now and plenty old enough to have sex with a man if I wanted to.

And boy, I wanted to.

I was so busy daydreaming about Max and his delicious kisses I didn’t notice the line had moved.

“Next!”

I lifted my head and smiled at Jezebel, walking up to the counter. She owned the drive in and was working the concessions stand tonight.

“Hi Jez.”

“Hello Penny. What can I get you?”

She’d been a few years behind me in high school, but I knew her and her family well. Her father was living in the retirement center, and he’d left her this place along with a few acres of farmland.

“Um, my date is just getting some cash from the ATM,” I said, worrying my lip.

“No worries. Order now, and he can pay when he gets back. What will you have?”

“Really? Thank you! We’ll have two large Cokes, a large popcorn, and a box of Snowcaps, please.”

“You got it,” she said and turned to get my order.

“Still eating junk like that, Pigpen? You really should watch your caloric intake.”

I cringed.

Of all the bad luck!

Of course, I would have to run into Burt the Dirtbag tonight. I straightened my shoulders and turned to see my ex-husband and his new wife.

“Hello Burt.”