Page 49 of More Than a Good Friend

Mom is right. Gabby has always been nice, and that gives me an idea.

“I’ll give her a call.” I may have just solved my double-date problem if it comes to that. I’m hoping Goldie will stop dating Evan and say yes when I ask her out. But just in case, I have a backup plan.

After visiting with Mom for a bit, I head back to the ranch. Goldie hasn’t texted, letting me know she’s back, but she could’ve forgotten.

And if I hurry, I might be able to see her before she changes out of that blue dress.

CHAPTER17

GOLDIE

My theory on needing more than one date to give someone a fair chance is dumb. There was no spark on the first two dates, and there’s even less today. Pretty sure Evan feels the same because he’s checked the time twice in the last two minutes.

We’re in a small town, not far from Stadtburg, and lunch has been pleasant, but it’s obvious this guy wants to leave. Without me.

I’d be hurt if I didn’t feel the same way.

“Listen, you were so kind to drive all the way out here and pick me up. I’m sure I can get a ride back. I have friends who aren’t far from here.”

His face lights up, which stings a bit. “Oh. Well, if you’re sure, then I’m going to head back to San Antonio. It was nice seeing you again.”

I extend my hand. “Thanks for buying my lunch. I hope there’s a spark with your next match.”

Nodding, he smiles. “You felt it too, huh? The lack of a zing?” After a sigh, he blows out a breath. “I did enjoy your company, but as far as dating...” He shrugs.

I shake my head. “No.”

He laughs. “At least you’re cool about it. I’ve had dates burst into tears. Which is painful.”

We walk to the door, and I’m scoping out the shops. I’ll need a place to kill time until my ride shows up. But in order for a ride to show up, I need to message someone. Probably Dag.

As the guy reaches for his door handle, he says, “Maybe things will work out for you and your friend.”

My feelings are so obvious that even my dates can tell I’m hung up on my best friend.

“We’re just friends.”

His laugh says he doesn’t believe me. “You sure you’re good? I don’t want to leave you stranded.”

“Totally. Go enjoy the rest of your day.” I wave, then head down the sidewalk so that I don’t end up staring as he backs out.

There are so many people at the ranch I could message about a ride, but I’m a glutton for punishment, so I call Dag.

“You need me?” Dag skips the greeting completely.

“Any chance you could pick me up in Comfort?”

“On my way. I can’t believe he bailed on you.” He gives a low angry growl, which I choose to ignore for now.

“He didn’t. I’ll explain when you get here.” I end the call and realize I never mentioned where to meet. But the town isn’t all that big, and we both have phones.

I poke through one of the stores Bluebonnet mentioned. This town is where Parker brought her for their honeymoon. It’s a sweet place. And I’d love to honeymoon here. All I need is a special someone. And a ring. And a honeymoon.

Being frank about there not being a spark was easy because I’m looking for a relationship that would be dangerous in dry conditions. I want sparks, sizzles, explosions of romance. That’s not too much to ask, is it?

If it is, I’d rather live single in my dream world than end up as someone’s pity partner. I have nothing against participation awards. I just don’t want to be one.

After buying a cute dish towel that totally belongs in the kitchen at the ranch, I cross the street and wander down to another place Bluebonnet gushed about. A store surrounded by flowers and butterflies. It’s still early in the year for flowers or butterflies, but plants are growing. Come summer, this place will be alive with fluttering insects and birds.

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