Page 97 of The Love Shack

Small smile in place, Lawson lifted a hand, waving to everyone and accepting their appreciation.

Unlike her, Lawson had spent much of his life helping others, traveling the world, dealing with a variety of people. Nothing in a small town would disturb his confidence. Watching him interact so comfortably filled her with pride.

With her gaze back on Berkley, Betty said, “The volunteer turnout for The Love Shack makes us all so proud, and we’re thrilled with how Ms. Carr has worked with other businesses to not only bring in funds to help the animals, but to showcase those businesses.”

Oliver started the applause, and everyone joined in. Face hot, Berkley covered her cheeks and laughed. She was not Lawson, so she was plenty disturbed by the attention, but also flattered.

And honored by the kind praise.

“Many of you have already signed up for the dog-walking classes. Ms. Carr has that well in hand, I’m sure.”

Betty knew she did. They’d discussed it just yesterday morning.

“Once every animal has a walking partner, we’ll start planning a wonderful fall parade.”

Enthusiastic whoops filled the room. Cemetery did enjoy its parades.

“The only problem I still see is that our esteemed Kathleen doesn’t have a date.”

It wasn’t until everyone shifted that Berkley realized the mannequin was seated up front, a box of tissues in her hand, her head bent forward.

All eyes swiveled to Lawson.

Oliver smirked. “Told you so.”

Fortunately, Lawson chuckled, then hugged Berkley to his side. “Sorry, but I’m taken.”

Wow, had he just announced that to one and all? Apparently so, given how quickly Betty grabbed her phone for a photo. No doubt it’d be front and center on the local social media accounts very soon.

Did she mind? Nope. In fact, Berkley decided to lend a hand. “Lawson can only be Kathleen’sfriend, but not her date.” As everyone laughed yet again, she patted his chest.

Given his smug smile, he enjoyed her possessive display.

Just imagine, she—once a scandal and then a loner—was now in a crowded council meeting, clowning around with the most wonderful man in the state, standing with friends and being heralded by the town matriarch.

A month ago, if someone had suggested such a thing was possible, she’d have given them a firm denial.

As Betty got back to business, Lark leaned around again and said with an enormous grin, “Oh man, Lawson, you’re going to owe me big-time.”

One eyebrow lifted in question. “For what, exactly?”

“I happen to have a brilliant idea—and you’re all going to love it.”

When the meeting ended, Berkley and Lark invited Betty to join them for dinner, but she declined, saying she and Gladys planned to work in the garden.

Lark couldn’t help but laugh at how Betty insinuated the dog would actually assist, but it was also sweet.

Betty looked at Berkley, indecision on her face, then she grinned widely, adding new creases to her cheeks, and hauled Berkley in for what looked like a strangling hug. When she finally let up, she surprised Lark by grabbing her, too.

The tight squeeze brought a huff of laughter out of Lark, but it was also sweet. Betty was soft, and even with her low-heeled business shoes, she was still very short. She smelled of powder and hair spray but felt warm and loving.

Stepping back, Betty gave them each critical scrutiny. “So I’ll see you both at the tea, correct?”

When Berkley said “I’m looking forward to it,” she appeared to mean it, and that thrilled Lark almost as much as Betty.

Oliver and Lawson got caught up talking to a few other men...as well as a couple of women.

“Business owners,” Berkley murmured low.

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