Page 36 of Nate

“It’s nice that you have a good relationship with her and her husband.”

“We keep in touch. They live in Wyoming now, but she’ll text me once in a while. It’s always good to hear from her.”

“That’s nice.”

“When did this almost wedding happen?”

“Four years ago. I’ve been skittish ever since. I have this terrible recurring dream that I’m in love with a new man and I’m standing at the altar waiting. He doesn’t show and all the bridesmaids are laughing.”

“Damn, that harsh.”

Markie laughed. “It is, isn’t it? I got him back a little though. I sued him for half the cost of the wedding and won.”

Nate chuckled. “Good.” He stood. “I’d better get going.”

“Okay.” Markie stood and they stared at each other.

“Thanks for dinner. It was great.”

“You’re welcome. Thank you for the carnation.”

“Would you like to go out next Saturday night? We could go to The Hartland and then to Dewey’s.”

Markie smiled. “I’d love it. Just call me or text me what time and I’ll be ready. Do you need my number?”

“No, I saved it when I knew it was you.” He took her hand. “Walk me to the door.”

She followed him to the door, and he removed his hat from the hook, then turned to look at her.

“You’re not going to punch me if I kiss you, are you?”

She burst out laughing. “No.”

Nate grinned, leaned in, and pressed his lips to hers. Markie moaned and wrapped her arms around his neck as he pulled her closer, deepening the kiss, then he lifted his lips.

“I’ll be in touch, Markie. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, Nate.”

He stared at her for a few seconds, then opened the door, stepped out, and closed it behind him.

Markie leaned back against the door, smiling. She couldn’t wait for next weekend.

Chapter Six

Markie entered the Everyday Grind to get a cup of coffee. She was going to explore the stores today.

“Welcome to the Everyday Grind, someone will be right with you,” a woman behind the counter said.

“That’s fine. Is Celine in today?”

“No, she’s off today. What can I get you?”

After ordering her coffee, Markie left the shop, then crossed the street to enter the bakery. She’d never been there and it was time to check it out. When she entered the shop, she groaned at the smell of baked goods.

She saw the ticket dispenser, removed one, sat at a small table and waited along with everyone else. When the bell chimed, she looked toward the door to see the livestock agent she met not long ago, Caysen Anderson. He glanced at her, then did a doubletake.

“Hello, Dr. Russell.” He touched his hat.

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