Page 22 of The Lyrics of Love

“We have talked about it,” Tenley confided. “We’re going to wait until Thanksgiving and see how the reception to our two books goes first. Carter should also know something in the next couple of weeks regarding his pilot. Once we feel like we’re on more of a schedule, we definitely will be making a baby. Or two. Or more.”

Rylie flung her hands in the air. “See? All of you fell in love with and married wonderful guys, and they worship the ground you walk upon. You’ve been successful in your careers, and now you’re going to write that next chapter in your lives by starting families.” She paused. “I feel as if I’m getting left behind.”

When the others murmured their protests, Rylie held up a hand. “You know of the four of us, I’ve probably dated the most. At least it was that way before I came to the Cove. I spent the time since I’ve been here developing and growing Antiques and Mystiques. It is gaining a solid reputation. In fact, I’ve hired Tracy Thomas to come in as a clerk on weekdays once school starts in September. Her little boy will be a first grader, and she was looking for part-time work while he’s in school. And that’s when it’s not even tourist season. I believe by next May or June, I’ll be able to hire additional staff. Yes, I’m pleased with how Antiques and Mystiques has grown and found success. Professionally, I am extremely satisfied.

“Personally, however, I feel my life is lacking. All of you are both friends and family to me, but I am feeling a bit lonely,” she admitted. “I long for love, just as you did at one point, and I’m going to do something about it.”

“I’m with the other two,” Ainsley said. “I don’t think Match or Bumble is the way to go.”

Rylie blew out a frustrated breath. “Great, so what should I do? And don’t quote back to me what those advice columnists say to do when you’re looking to broaden your dating pool. Do volunteer work. Find someone at church. Work on behalf of a political candidate. Well, I do all those things—and then some. It hasn’t led to me meeting anyone special.”

“Carter is still in touch with some of his firefighter buddies in Salty Point,” Tenley said. “I’ll bet he could set you up on a date with one. Surely among them, one of them is single.”

“I’m not sure if I’m interested in a fireman, to be honest,” Rylie said. “The thought of knowing my husband would be racing into danger every time that alarm went off? I just don’t believe that’s for me. You’re fortunate that Carter was able to walk away from being a firefighter.”

“I understand where you’re coming from,” Willow said quietly. “Every day Dylan walks out our door, I say a quick prayer for his safety. Yes, the Cove is a small town, and the dangers out there for most policeman usually don’t reach such a small place as we live in, but I still worry about him every day. I love him, though, and he loves what he does. So, I have to let it go and trust that he will use his training to the fullest in case a dangerous situation arises.”

“That could happen with any profession,” Ainsley pointed out. “Look at Jackson and what happened to him. His own client shot him. Jackson could have been killed. And Jackson actually got the man off!” Ainsley shuddered. “You know I’ve told you this before. If you look for love, it hides in the shadows from you. I think you should live your life, Rylie, and it will come to you. What about your surfer community? Anyone there?”

She shook her head. “No, either guys are already married—like my friends Ken and Kyle—or there’s just no spark. It’s like with Gage. He’s a good-looking guy but just like a big brother to me.”

“Gage is protective of you,” Willow said. “Any man you do go out with, you would need Gage’s approval. Actually, he would need all our approval before he could marry you. He wouldn’t only be marrying you, Rylie. He would be marrying our entire group. We are family.”

“What about last night with Nash?” Ainsley asked out of the blue. “Was there a spark between you?”

Rylie saw Tenley and Willow’s confused looks and said, “I sort of had a date last night. I ran out of gas, and a guy stopped and took me to Fred’s gas station and back to my car. He was nice. Hot as hell. And yes, Ainsley, I did feel a physical and emotional connection with him. The only problem is that he divorced a year ago, and it was unpleasant. He’s pretty much given up on the idea of trusting women and flat-out told me he won’t marry again. Because of that, I just don’t want to see him again. It would be a waste of my time in the long run.”

“But see?” Tenley said. “That was a random encounter. And you said there was a spark. So, life could throw you some kind of curveball. In fact, this Nash fellow might even change his mind.” Tenley stopped as understanding spread across her face. “Nash is a really unusual name. I read my People Magazine religiously. Was it... Nash Edwards?”

She nodded. “He said he’s come to the Cove to write new music. I’m sure once women in the Cove find out he’s here, he’ll have a line at his door. I’m not joining it, though.”

Rylie’s phone buzzed, and she removed it from her purse. “Stupid texts,” she said as she dismissed it. “I’m so tired of getting them from unknown numbers. Vote for this politician. Try this new diet supplement.”

As she railed, she noticed Ainsley texting. Usually, her cousin’s phone was nowhere in sight when they got together.

Again, Rylie’s cell chimed. She reached for it from where it sat on the table, seeing it was the same unknown number she had just eliminated.

Ainsley caught her wrist. “Don’t delete it this time. You need to see who it’s from.”

A funny feeling swept through her. “You know who’s texting me?”

Her cousin nodded. “It’s Nash Edwards. He came to see me after he left Antiques and Mystiques this morning.”

“I thought you said the date went poorly,” Willow said. “But yet he came to see you in person?”

Rylie shrugged. “He likes to whittle and carve. Before I had decided we were a no-go, I had suggested he might come see my store and get some ideas. Frankly, it did surprise me when he showed up this morning.”

“A guy doesn’t come in to see furniture, Rylie,” Tenley said softly. “Nash came to see you, didn’t he?”

Ainsley said, “I agree. Nash told me when he asked for a second chance, Rylie pretty much shut him down and tossed him from the store.”

“Nash said that?” she demanded.

Ainsley chuckled. “Well, he said—and I’m quoting loosely—that while you were polite, your words were full of piss and vinegar.”

“Of course, they were,” she cried angrily. “We are way different people and want different things in life. It sounds like you’re taking his side against me.”

Ainsley shook her head vigorously. “You are always my first concern, Rylie. You know that. But this guy really wants to try with you again. I think he regretted what he said to you. Yes, I gave him your number because he does want that second chance. I believe you should give it to him. Please, watch what he sent.”

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