Page 65 of Love's Bloom
They cleaned up the kitchen and relaxed on the couch. Sugar fitted herself between them and snored softly as they watched a suspense movie that forced Misty to close her eyes from time to time.
“That was great,” said David when it ended.
“Scary,” Misty commented. “I’m lucky I have Sugar to keep me company at home.”
They both looked at the dog sleeping on her back, oblivious to the world and couldn’t help laughing.
“I think the security system is a little safer for you,” said David. He stood and pulled her to her feet. They stood staring at one another. David’s steady look sent heat through her, and she knew he wanted to kiss her. She lifted up on her toes and sighed as he brought his lips to hers.
David glanced at the bedroom door and said, “Guess I’d better get you home.”
“Yes, it’s been a long day. A lovely one.” She knew he wanted more from her but wouldn’t push until she was ready.
CHAPTER TWENTY
The next morning, Misty lay in bed thinking of Crystal, hoping she was having a fabulous time in Paris. Her thoughts drifted to David and his family. She was falling hard for him, but she wouldn’t tell him until she was more confident in herself. She realized her feelings for David included loving his family, which made it more complicated.
She got up and dressed for her morning walk through town.
“Ready for a walk?” Misty asked Sugar, and Sugar came running to her. Misty hooked a leash to her harness, locked up the house, and headed out. Sugar knew exactly where they were going and led the way. It was cool, a reminder of days to come, and Misty enjoyed the briskness of their pace. If she looked carefully, she could see subtle changes to the leaves. Gone was the early bright green of spring. A faint yellow had entered some leaves as if readying to show off brighter colors in a month or so. She saw a flash of red and smiled as a cardinal took flight. It was a good omen, signaling a nice day ahead.
As they entered the park, Misty saw David’s father. He was kneeling in front of one of the flower beds, pulling weeds. Tears stung her eyes at how carefully he worked among the flowers, seeing the work as a tribute to his daughter.
Sugar pulled so hard on her leash that it slipped out of Misty’s hands. David’s father looked up and burst out laughing as the dog bounded toward him.
“Hey, Sugar,” he said, getting to his feet and patting her.
Misty came over to them. “She couldn’t stand not being able to greet you.”
“It’s great to see her. You, too. Happy Labor Day!” His deep-blue eyes, like David’s, filled with light as he grinned at her.
“And to you,” she said. “Hopefully, it will be a relaxing one for you. David says this is a busy time for the business.”
“It’s busy most of the year, until our winter break,” said David’s father. “Then, Susie and I will take off for Florida for a month or so.”
“Susie told me you took her to Paris for an anniversary trip,” said Misty. “That’s where Crystal and Emmett are celebrating their honeymoon.”
“I heard about their wedding. Congratulations to you for being a part of it.” He stood, and Misty decided to move on so he could get back to work.
“Thanks. I’ll see you later,” she said, picking up the leash and leading Sugar out of the park, aware his eyes were on her.
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At the Lilac Lake Café, things were busy. Dogs were allowed on the concrete patio, so Misty headed there and was delighted to see Sarah Bullard Miller sitting at one of the tables with her twin daughters. After her husband’s death, Sarah’s parents, who owned the hardware store, convinced Sarah to move back to town. Sarah enjoyed a hearty laugh, was well-liked and joined the group at Jake’s when she could. But helping at the store and taking care of her girls kept her busy.
Sarah waved. “You’re welcome to join us.” She turned to the girls. “Emily and Mia, please say hello to Ms. Owens. She teaches second grade at the school where you’re attending kindergarten.”
They gave her identical smiles, butone girl had light-brown hair, and the other had blond hair. All four eyes were the same attention-getting green color.
Sugar sat between their chairs and loved it when the girls stroked her.
Misty lowered herself into a chair opposite Sarah. “I’m glad you were able to make it to the wedding.”
“Such a sweet, short ceremony,” Sarah said. “I’m happy for Crystal. She and Emmett are a wonderful couple. Where did they go on their honeymoon? I know it was a secret.”
“Paris,” said Misty, grinning. “It’s always been a dream of hers to go.”
“What a fantastic surprise,” said Sarah.
