Page 6 of Love's Harvest
Aaron turned to Sarah.“Will you be able to make it?”
“Yes, my mother will take the girls overnight.They love having a sleepover, and I won’t have to worry about what time I get home.”
“Nice to have her help,” said Aaron.“When I come into the store, I see your office light on upstairs.I know how busy you are.”
Sarah chuckled.“My parents know exactly when I arrive and when I leave.”
Aaron gave her a steady look.“Are you happy here?At one time, you couldn’t wait to leave Lilac Lake.”
She sighed and looked away.“That seems a lifetime ago.I had to leave, go to college as my parents hoped for me.”
“Everything in its time.I had to stay in town and help Brad with the business we created in high school,” said Aaron.
“And now you’re so successful,” said Sarah.“I’m proud of both of you.The Meadows is a stunning development.”
“Thanks,” said Aaron.“I’ve kept a large, wooded lot for myself.”
From across the table, Tessa gazed at Aaron.“You’re one of the developers for The Meadows?The houses there are gorgeous.A little pricey for me, but maybe someday.”
“Are you planning to stay in Lilac Lake for some time?”Hazel asked.
“Under the right circumstances, I’d like to,” said Tessa.“I’m single and hope to meet lots of people.At my interview, Ross told me that there’s an active community of young people.”Her gaze turned again to Aaron.
Aaron was facing Hazel, and now he was asking her how her teaching job was going.
Damon left his job behind the bar and walked over to the group.“Mind if I join you?”He took a seat.“How’s everyone doing?Do you have any suggestions for the new menu?JayJay and I want to change things up a bit.”
“As long as you keep your chicken Caesar salad on the menu, I’m fine,” said Whitney.
“Yeah, and the blue cheese burgers,” said Nick, laughing as Whitney rolled her eyes at him.
“In the winter months, you’ll want to have a nice soup,” said Dani.
“And chili,” said Brad.“We working guys need something substantial.”
“Okay.”Damon turned to Tessa.“How about you?Any suggestions?”
“Apple pie,” Tessa said.“A tasty fall and winter dessert.”
Ross introduced Tessa to Damon, and they exchanged smiles.
Hazel shot Sarah a glance and let out a soft sigh.
Sarah gave Hazel a look of encouragement.She knew when the time was right, Hazel would find the perfect man for her.
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Shortly after Sarah finished her salad, she stood.“I’m sorry, but I have to get back home.Misty is watching the girls for me, and I don’t want to be too late.”
Aaron stood.“I’ll walk you home.”
“I’m going to stay for a while longer,” said Hazel.She gave Sarah a little wink.
Flustered, Sarah said, “Are you sure you don’t want to join us?”
“No, thanks.I’m not ready to go home.”
Sarah waved to the group.“See you all on Saturday.”
