Page 16 of Finding Romance
“Well, it’s been happening for years, and I want to know who it is. I mean, we all do,” Hutch says.
“A mystery, huh?”
He nods. “I’m going to figure it out someday.”
“Cool,” I reply because I’m not sure why this grown-ass man wants to solve a flower mystery so badly. But whatever floats his boat.
“Nice painting,” he says while admiring the lily pads I’ve painted.
“Thanks, I’m trying to practice,” I explain as I begin working on a small frog sitting on the lily pad. “So, do you like to come out here every morning to look?”
“Sometimes before or after the gym. Kasen and I go to the gym at least three times a week,” he says.
“Yeah, I need to go back again. I signed up for a month's trial membership while I’m visiting,” I explain.
“It’s a good gym. Not a ton of bells and whistles but it’s close by,” he says casually.
“So, you and Kasen are good friends, then?” I’m not sure why I ask. It’s none of my business but I keep thinking about Kasen, especially since we went to the fire station. Fine, I’m curious about this seemingly grumpy, private, hot-as-fuck man. I think it’s because he’s different from every guy I’ve been on a date with. He’s mysterious but also kind and he marches to his own beat, which I identify with.
“Yeah. He’s a good person. He’s helped me a lot over the past few years, including being my lifting partner at the gym, but also just…being a friend.” Hutch looks over at me and I stop painting. “I know he’s kind of quiet and all, but he really is a great person.”
“Who’s a great person?”
We both turn and see Al standing there.
“Oh, uh, Kasen,” Hutch says.
“Morning, Mr. Al,” I say to him as I turn a bit to face him.
“Off on my morning walk. What are you two up to?” he asks, looking Hutch up and down, clearly wondering why Hutch is in camo just as I am.
“Just waiting for the flowers to arrive,” Hutch explains as he pats the bench.
Al nods and looks at me. “Nice painting, Piper. You have real talent.”
I blush. “Thank you. I’m working on it.”
“Hey, would you mind painting some of my pots in the greenhouse?” he asks.
“Oh, sure. I can do that,” I say, trying not to sound too excited. I’ve never had anyone ask me to paint anything.
“Great. I’ll be up there later, come by when you have a moment,” he says as he waves and continues on with his walk.
The colorful sunrise is starting to fade into a sunny day, so I start packing up my art supplies. I’ll grab some coffee and muffins and head back up to help my aunt get sorted for the morning. She always likes to get up and watch some television before she eats and gets a sponge bath.
“Well, I’m off to get some coffee and check in on my aunt. I guess…” I look around. “Enjoy your stakeout?”
He chuckles. “I’ll come with you. I could use something to eat. This will all be here again tomorrow.”
I finish packing up and we head over to the café. “So, how often do you…” I trail off as I motion to the bench. I freeze and my mouth drops open. Sitting on the bench are flowers.
“For fuck’s sake,” Hutch mutters under his breath.
I laugh. “Sorry, I probably messed that up for you.”
He waves me off. “No, that always happens. As soon as I’m distracted…BAM! They just appear.”
“Maybe it’s magic,” I tease.
