Page 67 of Love's Cure

“Emmett, I’m glad you’re here. I know you were upset with your mother and me at the Inn last night, and I want to say I’m sorry. As your mother may have told you, I’ll be working with your father’s campaign and helping her. I already feel like part of the family.”

“I think you owe Crystal an apology too. It was supposed to be a dinner for my mother to get to know Crystal better.”

Diana bit her lip before turning to her. “I’m sorry, Crystal. Natalie asked me to accompany her. I didn’t understand.”

“Thank you,” Crystal said, unsure what to say next.

Diana smiled at Emmett, lifted herself onto her toes, and kissed Emmett on the cheek. “There. I don’t want anything to ruin our relationship.”

Emmett patted Diana awkwardly on the back before stepping away from her. “Okay, now that that’s out of the way, let me enjoy myself with Crystal.”

As they walked away, Crystal looked back and noticed how intensely Diana was studying them. An uneasy feeling entered her. Diana was interested in Emmett as more than a family member. And if Crystal wasn’t mistaken, she was being encouraged by Emmett’s mother.

She was jarred back to the moment when Taylor approached. “Crystal, I’m happy you came.” She turned to Emmett. “And you too, of course. I’m glad to see you here with Crystal.”

Certain Taylor was going to gush more about their being together, Crystal said, “Where’s Cooper?”

Taylor took her elbow. “Follow me.”

She led them to the far edge of the lawn where two men were in deep discussion.

“Cooper and Aaron are talking about a possible project, but we can interrupt them,” said Taylor.

Aaron turned as they approached. Tall, with black, straight hair, brown eyes, and tan skin, he had classic features. He smiled at her, and Crystal easily gave him a quick hug hello.

“I haven’t seen you in forever,” she said. “Where have you been hiding?”

“At The Meadows. While work is being done on Emmett’s house, I’ve taken over running most of the development.” He shook hands with Emmett.

“Cooper, darling,” said Taylor. “You’ve met the new doctor in town, Emmett Chambers. And you know Crystal.”

“Of course. Nice to see you again, Crystal.” He held out his hand to Emmett, and the two men shook. “I understand how happy Lilac Lake is to have you here. Are you enjoying the area?”

Emmett glanced at her and back to him. “Yes, I am. Everyone seems friendly, and I can practice medicine on a personal level I like.”

“I heard you’re the son of Senator Chamberlain. How is that working in a conservative state?” Cooper asked. Crystal realized that he wasn’t being rude, but was simply interested.

“I’ve maintained my independence for some time, so it isn’t an issue, especially with the name change. I’m sure you’ve experienced some of that same need working in the family publishing company.”

Behind his horn-rimmed glasses, Cooper’s blue eyes sparkled. “Touché. I like you, Emmett. I hope we can spend some time together. Do you enjoy fishing?”

“I haven’t tried it, but I’m sure I’ll like it. Just being on the water is soothing.” Emmett turned to Aaron. “How about you? Do you ever get a chance to relax?”

“Evenings often find me on the lake in my canoe. That’s when nature quiets for the night. A perfect time.”

Emmett grinned. “With my house on the river, I guess I need to get a canoe.”

“You’re welcome to use mine until you do,” said Aaron. “Are you interested in doing anything with maple sugaring? I’ll need help in the spring.”

“I haven’t done it, but it sounds like something I’d like to try,” said Emmett.

Pleased, Crystal listened to the exchange. As Emmett had mentioned, everyone in town was welcoming, and it felt so wonderful to be part of it.

Dani walked over to them. “We need some badminton players. C’mon, join us.”

“I will in a little bit. Right now, Emmett and I need something cool to drink.”

Taylor took her arm. “Let’s get some sodas and beers for our ... dates.”

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