Page 43 of Home to the Cowboy's Arms

“Maggie, I amreally not that hungry. But if you insist I sit here and drink tea while you have something, be my guest.”

“Thank you for joining me. And I know you would love these new recipes that Tillie is trying out. I’ll get two just in case you change your mind.”

“Well fancy seeing you here, Cade,” Maggie said with a wide grin. “Do join us. We can go over some of the plans for the opening day now that you both are here.”

Tori felt sure he would make an excuse to not stay but he smiled and took a seat.

“Hello, Tori, it’s good to see you again. You’re looking well.”

They would have to make small talk.

“I’m fine, thank you. And you?”

“Could not be better. That does look delicious, Maggie.”

“You should try it. Tillie is just amazing.”

Tillie arrived with the rest of the plates of food and Maggie had just cut into her chicken breast when her phone rang. “Hello?” She listened for a moment or two. “Very well if it can’t wait.”

Maggie looked at them both and shook her head. “I am so sorry but I need to run over to Judge Spicer’s courtroom right quick. I should be back shortly. I know you two will enjoy the food and don’t let it get cold. I’ll be right back.” She didn’t give either time to reply before she was halfway across the room.

“Well, I suppose we shouldn’t let all this waste. How about some of these fresh rolls? I believe you once said they were favorites of yours.” He passed the breadbasket over to her.

She was trying to figure out a good exit but then Maggie said she would be right back. Tori didn’t like being put in such a spot.

“I understand you got to have a visit with your brother Rance?”

“I suppose Matt told you that?”

“Yes, he did mention it. I know that made you happy.”

Silence.

“This is awkward,” Cade finally said.

“Very much so.”

“I’ve missed you.”

Tori felt that pain in her chest at his words and knew her heart could be a traitor. “What am I supposed to say to that? I thought we weren’t going to get personal if and when we saw each other around town?”

“Well, that hasn’t worked real well for me. In fact, I admit I almost had your brother’s truck towed from that reserved for lawmen space at the courthouse when he was here.”

“What in the world? Why would you do such a thing?”

“I didn’t know the person you were having such a great lunch with that day was in fact your brother. When I saw he was parked there, well I felt he might need to be towed… That’s what you would have done, right? Thinking someone who couldn’t read a sign had parked there anyway?”

“Have you lost your mind?”

“Possibly. And believe me, it hasn’t been pleasant. And I noticed when I owned up to saying I missed you that you didn’t respond. Guess that lets me know how much you did not miss my charming personality.”

“Have you hit your head recently? You haven’t spoken to me in almost a month now and here you are telling me how much you missed me? And expecting me to do the same to you?”

“If you recall, Tori, it wasn’t I who walked away at Jillie’s party. It was you. And I was trying to respect your wishes and give you space.”

“Thank you for that. Too bad it couldn’t have continued today.”

“You know you should ask yourself why in the world that a grown man like me with a reasonably intelligent brain would want to subject himself to your sharp tongue and more rejection.”

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