Page 29 of Cupid's Shot

“That’s okay, Legs. I want to spoil you.”

“How can I say no to that?” She leans into me, kissing me. Watching her walk away, I take another sip of my wine. “Legs,” I muse to myself, staring at hers, then refocus on plating dinner.

27

Taking a few deep breaths while alone in the dining room, I can’t believe how much effort he put into tonight’s dinner. Sipping this amazing wine, I feel so special. Looking around the Victorian home’s dining room, all of the little details pop out at me. He hasn’t cut any corners in his renovation or this dinner date.I love this home.It’s definitely not a bachelor pad. It’s elegant, inviting, and warm.

He emerges from the kitchen, his hands holding appetizer plates.

“Do you really not believe that you’re creative?” I ask, as he sets a beautifully plated salad in front of me.

“I’m not.” He chuckles.

“Tell that to this dish … and your house.”

He shrugs, then says, “I can’t paint like you. That’s for sure.”

“Creativity comes in many forms.”

He sits across the table from me, and we take our first bites of the salad.

“I’ve never considered that I was artsy or creative,” he says, like he’s been ruminating on my comment.

“You are very creative, Aaron Olson!”

The face he makes … he’s still unsure about it. That’s so crazy.

“Tell me more about your studio,” he says, grabbing for my hand across the table. “When did it officially open?”

“Officially in April, but I bought the building last February.”

“Time flies, right? I had no idea you’ve been back in town for a year.”

“It was a whirlwind … buying the building and turning the ground-floor retail into Main Street Maker’s Studio.”

“You’re kicking ass!”

“I’m getting by.” I sigh.

“Most businesses fail in the first year. I think you’re doing great.”

“I haven’t really made it a year yet,” I deflect.

“Plan on closing before April?”

“No.”

He laughs, and I agree. I should be prouder of myself and my business. “The first off season was tough though. Lots of key learnings for next year.”

“Like?”

“Maybe some virtual classes and an e-store so people can have kits shipped to their house.”

“Love those ideas.” He takes a sip of his wine.

“When is your next big trip?” I ask, curious to know more about him.

“I don’t know yet. I’m hoping to get one in before the summer rush, but I really want to finish up this house.”

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