“Something like that.”
“Right.” I awkwardly draw out, trying to figure out why sometimes he’s more talkative than others. Is it because we’re at work? Whatever the reason, this hot and cold mood is confusing.
I go back to my book, focusing on my current book boyfriend, who can do no wrong even when he’s flawed, and ignore the man before me. I don’t have time to waste when it comes to reading romance novels, and the clock is ticking away toward the end of my lunch break. Time is of the essence.
“Are the kids always talkative?” Nate interrupts me mid-paragraph, and I clench my teeth before looking up at him.
“Yes. Until they get used to you, but right now you’re a free pass from learning in their eyes.”
“I swear those fifth graders wouldn’t shut up,” he says.
“Ah, yeah, that group of kids is definitely special. They’ve always been that way. Just be firm with them and show them that what you have to say is important. They’re at that age where they think they know it all when in reality they don’t know shi—crap.”
Nate chuckles at my almost-curse and nods. “I can see that. Thanks for the advice.”
“No prob.” I finish my lunch and rinse my container before placing it in my lunchbox. Since I have a few more minutes, I get back to the story, but the rustling of paper distracts me.
“Walker’s okay?” he asks when he sees I’m looking at him.
“Yeah,” I say slowly, as if it’s a ridiculous question.
“Good, good. He loves school.” Nate balls up the aluminum foil that held his sandwich.
“I’m glad he does. He’s a great kid.” I smile.
Walker has done such an amazing job of incorporating himself in the classroom. It’s not always easy being the new kid when most of these children have known each other since preschool, but he fits in.
“He is.” Nate grins with pride, showing off his dimples, and it jostles something inside of me begging for attention. This mostly serious man has a smile that could light up an entire universe. The fact that his smile is so wide due to his nephew is a punch to my gut.
Down, heart, no need to overreact.
I think it’s safe to admit that I like Nate, however, confessing that to myself means I will now be even more awkward around him because I don’t know how to act around guys I like. I revert to a thirteen-year-old that waves at the guy she likes when in reality he’s looking at someone behind her so he doesn’t even acknowledge her greeting.
I’ve always been that girl, and the guys I do settle for aren’t exactly the best catches. I’m tired of reeling in rotten fish.
“Anyway, I gotta go.” I stand, grabbing my lunch bag.
As I walk out, Ellen, the fifth grade teacher I can’t stand, enters.
“Oh, Deputy Moore, I’m so glad I caught you…” she says in an almost sultry voice that makes my eyes roll.
Most of us have dated the guys in town, are related to them, or are just friends. Small town living equals small dating pool, which means putting a man like Nate in a place primarily filled with women is like theHunger Games. All of the teachers will volunteer as tribute to show him around and help him adapt. The poor man doesn’t stand a chance against these single ladies, who are more like vultures.
Except for me because I’ve had enough encounters with the man, and I’d probably lock us in a closet—by accident—and then have everyone talking about how I wanted to shag him at work.
No thanks.
Ellen can have him.
My jaw clenches at the thought. I don’t actually want Ellen to have any piece of him whatsoever. I’m not usually territorial, especially about a man that is nothing to me, but the idea of her winning him over makes my stomach turn with acid. It has nothing to do with him and everything to do with Ellen’s idea that she’s better than everyone. He could find someone more down-to-earth. If he wanted to date someone else like Andrea, I’d be happy for them.
Liar, liar.
“Ugh!” I toss my head back.
“Are you okay, Ms. Andrews?” an older student asks.
“Oh, yeah, I’m fine.” I wave him off with a smile and continue toward the cafeteria to pick up my class.