Page 40 of Yuletide Acres

Chapter 8

Dylan

Istorm back into the bar, determined to settle my tab and catch up with Poppy. I need to reassure her that this situation—this bad as hell looking situation—isn’t what it seems.

I’ve been a fool before, but this one takes the damn cake.

Gayle is at my side, her glare burning holes into me. With a resigned huff, I swing my gaze to meet hers. I owe her an explanation, too.

I screwed over both women tonight.

The worst part is that I’ve likely ruined any future chance with Poppy. All because of my jealousy. My unfounded jealousy.

“Well? What the hell was that about, Dylan? I know you don’t date, but for God’s sake, you’ve never treated me with such disregard.”

I scrub my face with my hands, a sinking feeling in my stomach. She’s right. “I’m sorry, Gayle.”

“You’re sorry? That’s the best you can do? Sorry?” She grabs her drink, downing it in one swallow. “I suppose I should understand, right? She’s gorgeous and new. A shiny new toy.”

“Actually, she’s not new.” My earlier headache has returned with a vengeance; I just hope I can maintain until I reach Poppy.

“What the hell does that mean? I’ve never seen her before.”

“She’s Poppy, the woman from the festivals.”

“Festivals?”

“Yes, the woman I dated for a year. The one I traveled around the country with a decade ago. She’s that woman.”

Recognition breaks across Gayle’s face, replacing some of the fury. “Holy shit. How did you find her?”

“She found me.” I force a laugh. “She claims Merry brought her here. That she visited her dreams and told her about this town where she needed to move.”

“Do you believe her?”

“As crazy as it sounds, I do. Poppy and I didn’t know each other’s last names. There’s no way this is coincidence.”

“You’re still in love with her.” It’s a statement, not a question.

One I can’t deny.

“I’m more in love with her than ever before.”

“I could kill you, Dylan West, but you’re fucking up enough on your own. You don’t need my assistance. Why in the world would you ask me to meet you here when you’re with Poppy? Why not warn me beforehand?”

Crap. I’m really going to sound like a terrible human being. “I thought she was coming here with Troy. I—”

“Wanted to make her jealous. You’re a bastard.”

“I know I am. You have every right to hate me.”

“You’re not my favorite person right now, but to be honest, I was tiring of our little meet ups. I want a man who will hang out with me in the daylight.”

“You’re an amazing woman, Gayle.”

“Don’t patronize me. I’m no Poppy. That’s apparent.”

“No one is,” I mutter, burying my head in my hands.

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