Page 52 of One-of-a-Kind Bride

“It’s a fact.”

“Gotta be good for your business then. All these people buying wedding gowns.”

“Actually, it can be lucrative in big cities like New York, but honestly, I’m surprised at how much interest there is in Last Stand. I mean the town has lots of appeal, like a shabby chic version of old town America, but—”

“A what?”

“Don’t tell me a builder of your status doesn’t know what shabby chic is?”

“Of course I know. I am building a she-shed for Julie, remember? Just never thought of the town as being considered that way.”

“Well, when you think of it, Last Stand is timeworn, but stylish. Longstanding but trendy and fashionable. And the festivals around here are known throughout the state.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah, people enjoy the traditions without feeling behind the times. It’s kinda cool how novel and charming the town really is.”

“You sound like a spokesperson for the place.”

“You know I’ve always liked this town.”

Coop held back his next comment. She could see it in his eyes and on his expression. And she didn’t want to rehash her reasons for leaving and breaking his heart. He knew them all too well. It was a can of worms she didn’t want to reopen.

She’d promised Julie she would give this evening a chance. But was she right to promise something like that? Did she hold too fast to her promises, regardless of the outcome? Being here in Last Stand gave her freedom to debate that in her head. Had her promises led her astray at times?

It was a short drive to the restaurant and once Coop parked the SUV, he told her to wait and then came around to the passenger side and opened the door for her. Southern manners were not wasted on her. She liked the gentlemanly act and wondered if it would become a lost art soon. Sure, she was perfectly capable of opening the door for herself, but it was those little nuances that men did that made a woman feel extra special.

At least it did for her. “Thank you,” she said, accepting his hand as she exited the car.

But the hand-holding ended there. Coop released her and tension immediately drained out of her body. He led her to the entrance of the Dragonfly with the slightest touch to her back and a hostess greeted them. They’d gone on a few real dates when they were seventeen, all that a working Coop could afford, and those times were easy and fun. Honestly, back then, they hadn’t cared if it was a burger joint or a coffee shop, as long as they were together. They’d never gone to any place remotely as nice as this restaurant.

They walked along tumbled stone and were shown to a table for two in the garden. Uneven brick walls created an outdoor terrace flourishing with plants and flowers. Rich in rustic elegance, the place hit just the right tone for the evening. Coop pulled out the chair for her and she took a seat. He sat facing her and gave her a smile.

“This is really nice, Coop.”

He looked around the place. “Yeah, the food’s good too. I’ve taken Cassie here on special occasions.”

“Such as?”

“Her seventh birthday. Honestly though, she would’ve been happier with a hot dog and a cupcake.”

“Most kids would.”

“When we were younger, I would’ve given anything to take you to a place like this.” He sighed. “I don’t know why I just said that.”

“Maybe because it’s true?”

“It is, but that was another lifetime ago.”

“Still, you’re a part of my best memories, Coop. We can’t think back and not remember all the summers we spent together with Julie.”

“I know you’re right. I can’t get it out of my head.”

“What?”

“That you’re here again. I know it’s only temporary. But at least we’ve had a chance to reconnect.”

“Reconnect?” Taylor’s heart skipped a beat. What was he trying to say?

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