Page 16 of Falling For Us Again

“Because you’re oblivious to certain behaviors in your relationships.”

“And how do you know that?” I say raising an eyebrow.

“Because I’m observant.”

“Well, you’re wrong. This has nothing to do with Jenna. She ended things a decade ago.” I scratch my chin with a playful smile. “Damn, I just realized that women keep breaking up with me.”

“Usually a sign you’re a piece of shit, by the way.” She waves a finger at me.

“Maybe I am.” I shake my head, amused.

“Anyway, just be careful. “You two have a complicated history that never got closure. Don’t make irrational decisions in hopes of getting back at her or getting back together.”

“No worries about that. I haven’t thought of her in almost a decade” I lied.

“You know I’ll support your dreams.”

She pauses, a twinkle in her eyes. “As long as they’re not stupid.”

I smirk. “Bold words from someone who’s rejected every good man in town. Your love life is worse than mine.”

She winces as she ties her auburn hair into a ponytail, ready to make the last batch of bread for the day. “Please. I just don’t like drama, and none of these men are like him.”

“There’s a him I’m not aware of? Hmm interesting.” I chuckle as I help her put on her apron. “Who’s he? And why aren't the two of you together?”

She thinks for a moment. “He’s pretty dumb.”

“Just your type, I suppose.” I chuckle.

She hits me playfully.

"Okay, but who is it?”

She shrugs. “He’s someone I've liked for a long time, but never pursued it. He's always been into someone else, so it’s just best to like his dumbass from a distance.”

“He’s definitely dumb for not seeing what a great woman you are.”

Maggie laughs. “Right? Like I said, he's pretty dumb.”

“Don’t worry, he’ll realize his mistake and find his way to you.”

She looks at me with a hopeful smile.

“You think so? I doubt it, but I’d really like that to happen.”

“I do.”

She turns away to the kitchen, and I cross the room to attend to a customer. My conversation with Maggie lingers on my mind, but I push it away.

Whether or not I go back to working as a chef has nothing to do with Jenna.

Chapter 6

McCORMICK’S PROPHECY

Jenna

I tie my hair in a ponytail as I slide into my car, the elastic band snapping into place. Excitement bubbles within me as I start the engine. Lola has invited me to her art studio and I'm excited to see her work.

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