“Date. Hang out. We don’t need to label it.”
And give my heart a chance to latch onto him again? No way. Too late, my heart whispers. I ignore the whisper. My heart is confusing mind numbing good sex with feelings. No, I’m not.
“It’s not a good idea. And it’s unnecessary.”
His eyes narrow on me. “Why isn’t it a good idea? What are you afraid of?”
I bristle. Will everyone please stop saying I’m a scaredy-cat? “I’m not afraid.”
“Excellent.” He stands. “I’ll pick you up for dinner at six.”
I growl. “I said no. And if you’re the man who you claim to be, you’ll accept my answer.”
He pauses with his hand on the doorknob. “Are you sure? I hear the burger at the brewery is excellent.”
I retreat into my innkeeper persona. “It is. I’m happy to make a reservation for you.”
“The town’s announcing the winning bid tomorrow. Once you realize I’m here to stay, you’ll change your mind. I can’t wait to get to know everything about you, Ellie,” he says as if it’s a foregone conclusion before opening the door and striding away.
“What then?” I ask my now empty office. “What happens when the community center is built? You’ll go away and forget all about me and your baby.”
“Did you say something?” Moon asks as she pokes her head in my office.
“Nope.” I stand. “Let’s get the breakfast service going.”
Work is what I need to get my mind off my troubles. I feel a flutter in my stomach. Don’t worry, baby, I’ll protect you. I won’t let you down. I will never let you down. And I won’t let anyone else let you down either.