Page 9 of Christmas Souls

Her cheeks turn this pretty shade of pink, and I know I've embarrassed her.

"Sorry. Figure of speech."

"No, tell me the truth. You thought I wouldn't be able to understand or be flexible enough to merge our dreams together."

"I was young and scared."

"You were scared of me?"

My heart cringes at the possibility. Was I such a fuddy-duddy that she didn't trust me to be open to her dreams?

"You made me very happy."

"I'm sorry?"

She shifts uncomfortably in her seat and won't look up at me. I reach over the table and lift her chin up so that she's looking right at me.

"I was happy enough to imagine a simple life with you—a house, some kids, a dog,” she says, “But deep down, I realized I couldn’t let go of my dreams. I needed to fight for them."

"I understand."

"No, I don't think you do. I was this close to letting go and just marrying you and living happily ever after. That scared me."

I reach for her hand and squeeze it gently. "Yeah, the old Michael wouldn't have understood. Hopefully, this new Michael can be more flexible and understanding." I hesitate. I want to spend some more time with her before the day is over. "Let me take you to Over the Roast later so we can get some dessert."

Her eyes shine bright with interest. Mandy has a sweet addiction a mile long, and I've got an in with the coffee shop owner since she's dating my brother Ben. We ride over in companionable silence. She seems perkier than she was earlierand I take that as a win. When we enter, we see some of the old biddies that love to gossip having their afternoon tea.

I usher Mandy to one of the booths at the back of the shop and sit across from her. Sam comes over and takes our order. I just know Mandy is going to love the pain au chocolat they have started making at the shop.

My back is to the wall, and I can see everything happening in the coffee shop from here. My body tenses up when Mrs. Carter and Mrs. Pierce get up from their seats and start to approach our booth.

"Hello, dears, it's so good to see you two together again."

"Ladies," I mumble.

"Oh, hi. Michael is working on renovations for my grandmother's house so I can sell it. If you know of anyone that wants to buy, please let them know to get in touch with me."

"You two seem very chummy here." Mrs. Carter ignores everything Mandy just said.

"You know what they say about rising from the ashes." Mrs. Pierce adds.

"Michael's company is the best in town,” Mandy presses. “He's taking good care of me."

"I'm sure he is, sweetie. I'm sure he is."

The ladies leave us, and Mandy and I burst out laughing.

"Are they always like that?"

"No, they've kept their distance from me these past few years. They're always matchmaking, though. You did good, though. Standing up to them."

"Last thing I want is to be in everyone's mouths in this small town. Besides, I teach young children. I don't want there to be any gossip."

Her face takes on this dreamy appearance when she mentions the dance classes she's giving.

"You're enjoying the classes?"

"So much. The kids have endless energy, and they are like sponges absorbing everything."

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