Page 19 of Unexpected Danger
“I do appreciate how you’ve helped me with dealing with Mr. Nuss’s unwanted texts and visits.”
“That’s because I care about you, Londyn. A lot.”
“Wow, so in case you two forgot, I’m here too.” Jasmine chewed on a complimentary breadstick.
Dustin laughed. “Aw, Jas, we know you’re here.”
The remainder of the lunch resulted in delectable food and pleasant conversation. But something niggled at Londyn about Dustin. He obviously had feelings for her andhadwalked her to her car each evening and followed her to her apartment a few times to keep an eye out for Mr. Nuss.
Why then could she only see him as a long-term friend? Because she still and always would have feelings for Brodie? Because she was like her mom in that men were easily disposable?
Dustin was good-looking, kind, and from what he said, a Christian. He attended church with Jasmine, earned a decent income, had an apartment on the east side of the city in a serene neighborhood, and was well-liked due to his charming personality.
“Anyone up for watching a movie tonight?” Dustin asked after they’d eaten their meals.
Jasmine raised her hand. “I am. What about you, Londyn?”
She shrugged. “Sure. It would beat being alone tonight if that creep decides to text me or show up again.”
“If he does decide to text you or show up at your door, we’ll be there.”
Dustin’s words comforted her. “My apartment is fine. How about right after work? We can order a pizza.”
“Now you’re talking,” said Dustin, wadding his napkin and setting it on his empty plate.
After work, Jasmine ran to the store on the way for pop and snacks, and Dustin escorted Londyn to her door. It would be comforting to have company if anything nefarious happened.
Jasmine had been to Londyn’s apartment several times to watch chick flicks. It would be an interesting dynamic to include Dustin, although he mentioned he was agreeable to watching whatever Londyn and Jasmine chose.
The crisp air smelled like rain, and peeps of sunshine emerged from behind the clouds. True spring might finally be around the corner.
She punched in the code to the door.
“This is a nice place,” said Dustin, looking around. Once inside, he stopped at the window and peered out. “I’ve always appreciated being able to see out the front. When I was a kid, we had a big tree blocking our view. Good for climbing out of the second-floor window and sneaking out. Seeing if someone was at the door, not so much.”
“Can I get you a glass of water, milk, orange juice, or coffee? Sorry, but that’s about the extent of the offerings. Hopefully, Jasmine will remember the pop.” Jasmine could be absent-minded at times.
“Coffee would be great.”
Londyn brewed a cup of fresh coffee while Dustin wandered around her living room. He stopped to look at her few knick-knacks, treasured porcelain dolls, and the photos on the shelf.
“Your family?”
“Yes. They adopted me.”
“Who’s the guy with you hiking?”
“Brodie. He’s a good friend of mine.”
Dustin faced her and arced a brow. “Only a friend?”
She didn’t have to look in the mirror to know the heat traveling up her face. Dustin regarded her, his eyes remaining steadfast on her while he awaited an answer.
“He is a good friend and was also something more.”
“Was?”
Why did she feel like she was being interrogated? “Unfortunately, I broke his heart.”
