Page 25 of Yuletide Acres

“No, but I thank the fine people of Yuletide Acres for granting me this time. I look forward to knowing you all.”

“Very well, Ms. Mills. I believe that’s it for the evening. Meeting is adjourned.”

I’m all smiles as I weave through the crowd, pulling Estelle into a hug. “Thank you. I never would have survived without you here.”

“You’d have been fine, dear. I do believe there’s a convert in your corner, now.” She motions over my shoulder and I turn to see Dylan standing there, hands shoved in his jean pockets. “I’m sure you two are famished. Dylan, why don’t you take Poppy out for some dinner? Maybe a celebratory drink. Remind her that you still have a few redeeming qualities.”

God, I love his mother. I chuckle, smirking in Dylan’s direction. “A few? That might be pushing it.”

Dylan nods, even managing a small smile of agreement. “It might take some doing to convince Poppy that I have any good qualities at this point.” He holds out his hand in my direction. “But, I’d love the opportunity to redeem myself. That is, if you’re interested.”

I am interested. Very interested. But I also can’t handle being tossed about again. His vacillating disposition toward me is giving me whiplash.

“Sorry to break it to you, Mayor, but I made dinner reservations for Poppy and me tonight.”

I turn to see Troy standing there, offering me his arm. I also note Dylan’s jaw clenching as he stares at the comely sheriff.

“You did?” I retort. This is news to me, too.

“I figured you’d been under a lot of stress, what with the move and all the upheaval. Let’s not forget your few rounds with the mayor. I thought a nice steak dinner might be just what the doctor ordered.”

“She’s a vegetarian,” Dylan interjects, crossing his arms over his chest.

Troy’s eyes bulge from his head. “You are? In Montana? Huh, that’s a new one.”

I giggle at the absurdity of the situation. Truly, this was not how I expected this evening to turn out. “I eat chicken.”

“You do?” the men question. In stereo, no less.

“Yes, but I prefer vegetarian meals. You are so kind to think of me, Troy.”

“Come on, let’s go. I have a glass of whiskey with your name on it.”

Decisions, decisions. I’d much rather spend time with Dylan, but the man was cornered into taking me out. His mother set up the date, and I can’t be sure if he was on board or simply being polite. That, and he’s been a raging jerk to me, whereas Troy has been nothing but gentlemanly.

A gentleman who’s likely making a play to become the third person I’ve slept with in ten years. I should have rethought that statement before I aired my sexual history.

Still, my heart is safe with Troy, and I doubt he’ll try anything untoward.

But I don’t have to choose, as Dylan makes my decision for me. “Since you two have plans, I’ll see myself home. Have a good night, sheriff. Ms. Mills.”

And just like that, the wall between us grows thicker. Soon, even the memories of Dylan and me will be inaccessible.

“Forget about him,” Estelle whispers. “He’s jealous. He’ll come around.”

“I somehow doubt that,” I murmur, offering Troy a smile. “I’m ready when you are.”

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