Page 111 of Gideon

“I think I was more afraid you wouldn’t be that excited to see me.”

Her lips pursed. “That means you were hoping I would be excited?”

His grin spoke volumes. She wasn’t making it hard for him to see how she felt. His confidence was intoxicating. She’d had to carry so much responsibility over the last few months, she’d forgotten how much his presence lifted her.

“I’ve been talking to my dad,” he said.

“Oh, yeah? Things are still going well?”

“Yeah. We talk most weeks.”

“About what?”

“Getting a workshop up and running again.”

“I thought he lost everything in the fire.”

“Believe it or not, he had insurance on the place.”

“Your dad? Really?”

“I was as astonished as you when I found out.”

“But he can’t work it, can he? I mean, he can do a little, but?—”

“No. He can’t. I would.”

“Oh. You would run it.”

“I would.”

“So…you’d move back here?”

“I think I’d have to, wouldn’t I?” That smile again.

“Yeah, well, you couldn’t run a business from…wherever you were.” Her brain had abandoned her, and she hated it for that.

“He said your mom’s still visiting him.”

“Yes.” The mention of her mom brought her back to earth, although he’d stepped closer, and she found it harder to breathe or think. “She’s started visiting a lot of people. She’s loving it.”

“Good. I’m happy for her.”

“Me too.” After a couple seconds of silence, she felt the need to fill it. “So, that’s good news you’re moving back. The town will be thrilled to hear it. They appreciated the work you did.” He nodded lightly and moved closer. “And with the rain returning, they’ll be able to pay you, so that’s something.”

He reached for her hand. “Honestly, I don’t really care what the town thinks. There’s really only one person who I’m interested in around here.”

“Oh, yeah?”

He pulled her close and wrapped his arms round her. “Yeah.”

“That’s too bad. Deputy Cole’s not in town anymore.”

He laughed. “I’m happier knowing he and the rest of them are paying for their crimes.”

Then, before she knew what was happening, he kissed her. It was the best feeling she’d had in a long time. Better than the rain, better than her mom’s joy. The impossible had happened once again.

When they finally pulled apart, she could barely remember what day it was.

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