Page 10 of Frozen Hearts

“So what are you suggesting I do about it?”

“Realize where your feelings are coming from. Don’t take things out on Mel. She doesn’t seem like a bad person so there’s no reason things can’t be cordial between you two.”

Willow understood what River was saying. Whether her disliking Mel was the product of the woman being insufferable or because of her own broken heart, who could say? The simple fact was that she didn’t like Mel. But River was right, she could still be cordial. If for no other reason than to promote a happy living situation in her community.

“I’m surprised you aren’t going to tell me that I should go ask her out,” Willow laughed.

“It’s not up to me to decide when you’re ready to take that leap again. I won’t ever pressure you in that arena. You’ve been through a lot, friend. It’s okay if you need to take a little time for yourself,” River reassured her.

“You act as if coming home to find that your girlfriend moved out would be a traumatic occurrence.” Willow tried to laugh but it came out forced. River’s hand landed on her shoulder.

Six months ago, Willow had believed she was in a happy and healthy relationship. She and Amy had been dating for two years and living together for nine months. By all accounts they were headed for engagement and marriage. Then without warning Amy left. Willow went in for a job interview, and when she got home Amy, and her stuff was gone. Amy left a note explaining that she’d felt like things were moving too fast.Easy come, easy go.Looking back now there had always been signs, but Willow never expected Amy to leave.

“You’ve been through a lot. It’s okay if it takes you time to trust again. It would be strange if it didn’t take you a little time,” River smiled softly.

“Thank you for being so wonderful to me over the last six months. You really showed up for me during a very difficult time,” Willow said.

“You’re my best friend. Where else would I have been then other than beside you?” River asked. Willow lay her head on River’s shoulder.

“You’re an amazing friend. I think you’re right. I don’t have to like Mel to be nice,” Willow said with a grin.

“There’s the spirit,” River laughed. She gave Willow a little kiss on the top of her head.

Willow rested her head on the back of the couch and sighed. She grabbed the remote and turned on the TV. Willow tried to forget about the heat that had spread through her heart and core when she’d looked at Mel. She wasn’t interested in Mel, hell she could barely handle the idea of sharing a dog park with her. She turned her attention to the show they were watching, desperately hoping to be sucked into another world.

Chapter 5

Mel worked her way around Mallie’s Cafe. She greeted customers and made sure everything was in working order. It had been almost a year since Brynn had promoted her to manager. Today, Brynn was catching up on some paperwork. She glanced over at Mel and laughed.

“Is today your first time dropping Mase off at doggy daycare?” Brynn asked.

“What gave me away?” Mel chuckled.

“You keep checking the time,” Brynn said. Brynn, who had named the cafe Mallie’s after her own dog, was a bit of an expert when it came to puppy parenting.

At this point Brynn was more of a friend than just simply a manager. Mel knew that Brynn had taken her under her wing, much like a big sister might.

“Is it that obvious?” Mel asked, blushing.

“Only to people who know you. I doubt anyone else would think anything about it.”

“Do you still take Mallie to doggy daycare?” Mel asked, curious.

“Absolutely. At this point if I didn’t take her to doggy daycare Mallie would probably revolt.”

“Glad to know Mallie is a fan.”

“Jordan is Mallie’s favorite person. If I were standing on one side of the room, and Jordan was on the other side I would lose every time,” Brynn insisted.

“I think that’s true for most dogs,” Mel laughed.

As if on cue Jordan and Reese walked through the door. They each smiled and waved as they walked to their typical booth. Brynn left her seat behind the bar to go join her friends. A moment later Jordan waved Mel over. She smiled and walked towards the trio.

“I just wanted to let you know that Mase is doing great for his first day,” Jordan announced. Mel slid into the spot beside Brynn.

“That’s such a relief. I wasn’t really worried. But it is nice to hear that it’s going well,” Mel smiled.

“You’re a good dog momma,” Reese said with a warm smile.

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