Page 23 of Heart of the West

My eyes never leave his face as he takes his first bite. A look of pleasure washes over his face. He closes his eyes.

“These are good. Very good. Good enough to send to my grandmother.”

“I have extra. I can get you some.”

He shakes his head. “Later. Let’s get you home and tucked into your apartment.”

“Yes, please.”

The ride back to town is filled with comfortable silence. I’m too exhausted to talk and Dustin seems to sense it.

“I know this isn’t the best time to have this conversation, but I see the spark between you and Effrem.”

I blushed. “This isn’t the best time, but you’re right. I’m attracted to him. I find you attractive. You’re so fun to be with. I think we’d be great in the sack, but I think we’re both looking for more.”

Dustin nods his head. “Honestly, I feel the same. You’re very attractive and yes, we could tear up the sheets, but I’m ready to find my forever and have a family. You know Effrem’s a widower, right?”

“Cece mentioned him having a late wife about a minute before Torrent, the horse I thought was Paxon, bolted.”

“Poor thing. You didn’t even have time to process the information before Torrent did his thing.”

“Has he dated a lot since he lost his wife.”

“No, not at all. Evie was his whole world. They dated throughout junior high and high school. Married as soon as she graduated. He’s a year older than she is. I don’t think he’s gone on a date.”

My heart sank to the bottom of my feet. “Oh, well. Looks like I have a snowball's chance in hell.”

Dustin shook his head. “No, not at all. The way he looks at you. There’s a spark. Something I’ve never seen in him since Evie’s passing. Don’t lose hope. Just know the path may not be easy. Effrem’s likely to dig in his heels and fall in love kicking and screaming. He’s fiercely loyal.”

“Thank you for telling me all this.”

“Hey, I said I wanted a friend if we didn’t hit it off. I meant it. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you this week. There’s no reason we still can’t hang out as friends. Even go on dates. And don’t think you’re paying half. Grandma would drive up and smack me upside the head.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle picturing a little old woman slapping such a strapping guy upside the head. He smiles and starts to chuckle.

“You're picturing it, aren’t you?”

“I am.”

“She’s due to visit after the new year. I’ll make sure I introduce you.”

“I can’t wait. I feel like I know her already from the stories you’ve told me.”

I’m feeling a little better by the time we arrive at the bakery. Dustin walks me to the backdoor.

“Do you want me to come up?”

I shake my head. “I need to decompress.”

“I understand. Call if you need anything. Anything at all. No matter what time it is.”

I give him a quick hug and a peck on the cheek. “Thank you for everything.”

He pulls me into a quick hug. “I mean it. Call me if you need me.”

“I will thank you.”

I hurry up the stairs and let myself into my apartment. I sink down on the couch for a few minutes, but I’m too restless. Maybe take a nap. I kick off my shoes by the front door and head to my bedroom. I grab the folded blanket on the end of the bed and pull it on top of me, not bothering to get under the bed covers.

---