Page 34 of Make You Stay

“What if you fall in love between now and then?”

“With whom?”

Enid catches my gaze, and I know she sees through my blasé response regarding love. Her grin solidifies it. “Well, I know a certain someone who looks way better now than he did a couple of weeks ago.”

“Yes, he does.” The man is a whole new level of sexy, if I’m honest.

“He needs to find a good woman.”

“There’s Barbara. They went on a date the other night, and she’s been around a few times this week. Unfortunately for him, she was a fan of the beard.”

“He didn’t shave the beard for his date with Barbara.”

“I know, but I’m sure he wanted to make a good impression and instead shot himself in the foot. He’s a handsome man. She’s a fool if she doesn’t see it.”

“He shaved the beard for you. He knew you didn’t like it.” She pats my knee, sending me a knowing smile. “He likes you very much, Chloe.”

“He’s a wonderful friend.”

“He’s more than that.”

“He isn’t. We haven’t—” I sit up, feeling the panic set in.

“Relax. I’d be thrilled if you two got together.” She stands up, grabbing her purse. “Since you’ve been amazing enough to prepare dinner, I’ll run out and grab dessert. See you back here in a couple of hours.”

Good to her word, Enid walks back into the house precisely two hours later, her family in tow. The girls make a beeline for the family room, eager to look through Betsey’s photo collection, while Jeff sets about tending the fire.

The only person missing is Aidan. I guess he had plans with Barbara again.

At least I didn’t get too dressed up. I changed into a simple sweater dress and applied a hint of makeup, but nothing outlandish. Nothing that looks like I’m trying too hard to impress the man who isn’t here.

Swallowing back the disappointment, I focus on prepping the chili fixings, smiling as laughter wafts in from the other room. I haven’t had enough laughter in my life—not by a long shot.

“Hey, sorry I’m late,” a voice says behind me.

Spinning around, I can’t hold back the smile crossing my face. Aidan is here, looking gorgeous in a flannel and jeans. Turns out Idolike the lumberjack look, at least on him. “You came.”

Aidan grins, holding out a bouquet. “I had to get these first.”

I bury my nose in the purple roses, feeling the tears back up in my eyes. It’s the first time a man, outside of my dad, has ever brought me flowers, and the emotions are swiftly becoming overwhelming. “They’re lovely. Purple is my favorite color.”

“I had a feeling. Glad I chose correctly.”

“You didn’t need to buy me flowers.”

“You’re cooking dinner for this crazy crew. Some flowers are the least I can do.”

My glow fades at his words. The bouquet is still as lovely, but it’s not a romantic gesture. Rather, a hostess gift. “Let me put them in some water.”

“Thank you for doing this.”

“It’s my pleasure. It’s nice not eating alone.”

“I know the feeling. I’m alone all week, remember?”

Not lately, Aidan.

“I never thought of it like that. You always seem so busy.”

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