Page 60 of Book and Ladder
Maybe Home Mart and Moss and Maple could coexist somehow. I open my mouth to say something along those lines, but then shut it again.
We both know better.
If my dad’s development moves forward, it’s only a matter of time until Daisy will go out of business.
I carry Daisy’s box of books in silence.
The weight pressing on me has nothing to do with cardboard and paper.
Chapter 17
Daisy
I love and I hate you, yet I love you and I hate you.
~ William Shakespeare, Romeo & Juliet
Chetand I couldn’t make lunch or coffee work. He’s a rancher, I’m a small business owner—midday’s a wash for both of us. So we ended up making a dinner date.
Chet’s been regaling me with stories of his time on the ranch.
“Had to chase that foal down …” he says, fighting another yawn, “... and use the mare to lure it to safety.”
I feel like I’m keeping Chet from sleep he desperately needs. Conversation with him has been easy, but he’s obviously fighting to stay awake. He’s a sweet man with a steadiness to him that feels oddly anchoring. And I admire his old-fashioned manners.
But there’s no spark. Not even a flicker.
“Sorry,” he drawls in that honey-sweet accent of his. “I’mnot always this drowsy. Usually in bed two hours ago. Roosters wait for no man.”
I smile. “It’s fine. I’ve been distracted too—lots going on at the shop.”
Chet nods, his eyes intent on my face. He’s an attentive listener too.
I practically beg my belly to zip or zing—willing a spark to come to life.
At least he didn’t bring his mom.
I groan inwardly. Is this my new standard? No parental chaperone?
“We can get the check whenever,” I offer. “I’m not in a rush, but you need sleep.”
Chet signals the waiter. “I enjoyed tonight, Daisy.”
“Me too.” It was a pleasant date.
“I’m thinkin’ you’d rather be friends.” He tips his head. It’s adorable.
Still, no spark.
“I would like that very much,” I admit.
“A man can always use a friend,” he says, easily.
I kick myself. Why can’t I fall for a decent guy like Chet?
The heart wants what the heart wants.
Then it hits—like lightning splitting a tree.
