He grinned and wrapped the towel low on his waist. “I’m gonna take a shower.”
“Sure. I need to catch my breath. I feel like I’ve run a marathon.”
“But more fun than a marathon, right?”
“Yes, definitely more fun. Thank you.”
“My reward is seeing your smile.” He held her gaze for a moment, and she wondered if he’d say more, but he didn’t and went into the house.
She sighed and sat back, then looked at her phone and wished she had photos of them surfing together. She wanted images to accompany her memories of the week.
Her phone trilled to life.
She tutted when she saw who the caller was.
Ellen. There was no avoiding a conversation. She’d call and call until late into the night.
“Hey,” Leah said, hoping she’d kept the resignation from her voice. “How are you, Ellen?”
“Leah, good, I’ve caught you. Can you get to the florist for me tomorrow and collect the table centerpieces for Saturday?”
“Not really.”
Pause. “Oh.”
“I’m sorry, Ellen. I’m out of town for the week.”
“You are? Where? We didn’t know.”
“Southern California, by the beach.”
“But I thought you were so busy with work. That’s what your father said.”
“I’ve brought it with me. Might as well have a nice view while I’m going through files.”
“But there’s so much to do for the annual mayoral party.”
“I know, I’m sorry. The practice is just so busy, Ellen, it always is after the rally.”
“Those bikers are a menace to our peaceful law-abiding town.”
Leah was quiet as an image of her and Carter writhing on the bed rushed into her head.
“We should do more to stop them coming each year,” Ellen went on. “It really is a disgrace and—”
“So I’ll see you on Saturday. I’m sure someone else will run the errand to the florist. If I can do anything on the day, let me know.”
“Actually, you can. Wear something extra pretty. I’ve invited Duncan, an accountant, son of my friend Nancy, and a really lovely young man. Also coming is Benjamin, just out of Harvard. I’m sure you’ll have lots in common with him.” She paused. “You’ll be able to take your pick of these eligible young bachelors, Leah.”
“I really don’t—”
“Though I think you’ll like Duncan over Benjamin, he’s got an RV, you know. Think of the adventures you’ll have together.”
An RV, no, Leah liked bikes now, most definitely. “You really didn’t need to bother yourself, Ellen.”
“It’s important you find someone to accompany you to mayoral events like this so of course I went to the bother and—”
“I’ve got a date,” Leah blurted. “For Saturday.”