“Sounds good. If you want, I’ll go get Trish. I’m babysitting Charlie anyway.”
“Great, tell her I’m in the car.”
Kim watched Shazz glide across the floor toward the back door leading to the staircase upstairs. She could easily picture Shazz as a cruise ship entertainer. She’d probably make a great showgirl too. Once again, Kim felt tarnished by comparison. She pushed her chair back and let herself out through the front door to her old truck. The bed had been loaded with her goods for the craft fair. She still had a few hours before she could get home and take a hot shower and turn off her phone and climb into bed. Too bad she couldn’t fast-forward the day.
Kim hopped in her truck and unlocked the passenger door. Within a few minutes she heard the rattle of the bar’s front door shaking its frame. Dressed in a thick shawl resembling a quilt more than a coat, Trish hustled toward him. Kim chuckled. The morning was cool, not cold. But California bred Trish refused to listen to reason on the subject. The wrench of the rusty old door preceded Trish launching herself up into the cabin. Kim chuckled.
“Be honest, Kim. It’s freezing out. You can admit the truth to me.”
Kim fought an eye roll. “So Shazz is helping me with the bathroom?”
“Oh sorry, forgot to mention that,” Trish said, wincing.
“It’s okay. We had a nice chat and she seems eager for the work. I just hope I can keep her on task. Tiling isn’t very exciting. Creating a mosaic involves a lot of math and tedium.”
“Wow you sure know how to sell what you do,” Trish deadpanned.
Kim chuckled. Sales had never been her strong suit. She preferred to be behind the scenes figuring out the mechanics. Landon’s the showboat for both of us. It’s why we work… She shook her head. No need getting distracted by him.
“Hey, just being honest,” Kim replied. “But how’s it going with her?”
“So far so good. I’m just…”
“What is it?”
“I think she’s kind of lost. She hasn’t found her niche or what she wants to be when she grows up.”
“Kind of a little late for that, isn’t it? I think at some point you just have to be a grown up and pay the bills, end of story.”
“I know and I agree. You’re so very practical and I was a lawyer. Shazz has always been a free spirit. But I think there’s room for more free spirits here. A lot of the locals have kind of found their niche.”
Kim nodded. She knew she had.
“So how are you doing? You got a job and I haven’t been able to reach you.”
“Sorry about that. I saw your missed calls. I’m doing well. I’ve been so busy this week has completely flown by.”
“I guess doing what you love has that ability.”
“Sure. There has been a learning curve to this role. But I think I’m getting it. I’m just exhausted.”
“And your exhaustion doesn’t have anything to do with that cute guy I saw you with at the beach?”
Kim’s mouth went slack. She’d been waiting for Trish to bring up Landon. She’d expected that was what those phone calls had been about this week but had too much to do to return them. Trish had timed her topic right. After discussing her new job and Trish’s cousin, they’d exhausted every other topic they could bring up.
“You’re not answering so I guess I’m going to assume it does have to do with that guy.”
Kim shut her mouth and then opened it but the words didn’t come out. Thoughts didn’t even form in her mind. Her body tensed up and she sat in silence.
“Come on, Kim. Relax, tell me what’s going on with him? I’ve never seen him before but I guess Phil has. Apparently he’s stopped by the bar a couple times to chat with Phil. But he never drinks.”
“Really?” Kim asked. She remembered Landon having the occasional drink with her but their time together didn’t revolve around partying or alcohol or anything else. They’d spent those months lost in each other. It’s how she ended up pregnant.
“So what’s going on with him?”
“Don’t take this news in any other direction than just listening and processing it, okay?”
“What does that mean?”
“Don’t run off and make speculations or assumptions or try to do anything on your own or enlist Phil’s help.”
Trish crossed over her heart with her fingers and then did the zip her lips move for good measure.
“He’s the guy. The one from college.”
“And he’s here?”
“Yep, he came to develop land.”
“Oh no way. He came to find you.”
“I don’t know Trish. I don’t think exactly… I hoped… But it’s complicated now,” she rambled, gripping the steering wheel tight.
She didn’t want her all too perceptive friend reading her like an open book. Especially the sad, lonely, pathetic page where the story had been bookmarked.
“What’s complicated? On the beach, he only had eyes for you. After you left, he spent a good five minutes staring longingly in your direction. And then he excused himself and left. Shazz was a little put out he didn’t try to talk or flirt with her.”
“He didn’t?” Kim’s stomach fluttered, hope renewed.
“No, not at all. So, come on, don’t complicate it. Make a move. Maybe he’s waiting for you to take charge.”
She put her face in her hands. No, there was absolutely no way she could do that. The SCL and by extension her had taken his plot out from under him. Nope. If she wanted to see him again, she had to hope he’d make the move. Might be a good time to start bargaining with a higher power.
“Oh shoot, look at the time. Kim, we’d better get going if you want help setting up your booth. They open in twenty minutes.”
Kim sat up straight. “Okay, done.”
She started the engine, carefully backed out of the parking spot, and the big old truck rolled down the street. Sometimes her truck sputtered, sometimes it took a few minutes to warm up, but it always rallied. Maybe she could do that too. Maybe…
“But we’re not done talking about this. I might have to stay and help you sell today, just to keep an eye out in case something exciting happens. You’re not likely to call.”
Kim groaned but didn’t reply. Trish was right. She probably wouldn’t alert her to anything. If only Trish could be right about something exciting happening today too.
CHAPTER TWENTY
Saturday morning found Landon doing more of the same, avoiding his father’s phone calls and drawing a blank on his next move. He’d finished the last of the phone calls to his ex-investors late Friday evening. He’d spent too much time that night staring blankly at his laptop screen. The eerie glow in the darkened guest room strained his eyes as he zoomed in and out on Google maps, searching for any stretch of available land.
Finally he’d shut the computer and laid down for a fitful night’s sleep at one in the morning. He was up seven hours later and drove into the Pier Village. He parked his car in the lot near the pier and wandered along the mostly empty shops. After finding a coffee shop and ordering the largest drink they had, he noticed a pick-up in the traffic. He followed the commotion over to a little park. Nestled between huge live oaks on a cobbled ground, Landon found himself at a craft fair.
He’d never been to a craft fair before and curious, began to wander through the set-up. Tables and booths laden with art from photographs and prints to decorative platters and plates caught his eye. He seemed to have arrived just as the vendors were finishing their set-up. The twang of ukuleles tuning up caught his ear and had him turning around. A group of performers, the Golden Isles Strummers according to the banner in front of them, was warming up. Landon stood before them, hands clasped behind his back, and smiled as the opening bars of “You Are My Sunshine” sounded. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect for the music.
Taking a step back, Landon surveyed the rest of the set-up. He’d only reached the halfway point of the giant serpentine form the tables had form
ed. He scanned the remaining tables and his eyes caught on Kim. Her eyes were half-closed and her head thrown back as she laughed at something her companion must have said. He drained his coffee, dropped it in the nearest trashcan, and then crossed toward her, determination in every step.
If he’d settled on one thing last night, it had been Kim. She had no blame in losing the land. He would get another chance with her. After the dust had settled on all of the information they’d shared between them, one thing remained for him. He was crazy about her. No one else could ever compare to her in his eyes. She’d supported him, encouraged him, and drove him to be better. He needed her in his life…forever.
The bright colors on her table caught his eye and had him smiling. The mosaics, mostly abstract arrangements of colors in like groups, showed an expert hand. Kim stopped laughing abruptly when he approached.
“Landon? Hi,” she greeted.
“Good morning,” he said, grinning at the soft blush that crept up her cheeks from under the polo collar she wore.
Dressed in a soft pink shirt, he thought her hair only shone more golden, her skin even more pearlescent and perfect than he remembered. She’d despaired to him over her inability to tan in the sun, but he’d always loved her porcelain skin. She resembled a beautiful, delicate doll. Someone to be cherished.
“Nice to see you again, Trish,” he said, extending a hand out for a shake to her companion.
“Likewise.” She shook his hand. “Surprised to see you here for a craft fair. I wouldn’t have pegged you for a connoisseur of handicraft,” Trish teased.
Landon smiled. He liked her spirit, and he could only imagine what a good foil she must be to Phil. He’d liked that Phil seemed to have an answer for everything and maybe she did too. They might be a fun couple for a double date. Ask Kim out first.
“Did you make these?” Landon pointed at the various picture frames and mirrors set on the table.
“I did,” Kim said, grinning.
“I’m impressed. If I had a house, I’d have to buy you out.”
“She’ll do special orders,” Trish piped up.
Landon glanced down to hide his slight grin as Kim elbowed Trish. He got the distinct impression that they must have been talking about him. That had to be a good sign. Or at least he would take it as one. He needed something to start going his way.
“When did you get started?” Landon asked.
“A couple years ago out of necessity. My house was a falling apart foreclosure that ate up all my savings. I didn’t have money to hire out all the necessary renovations, so I taught myself some DIY to get things functional.”
“And tiling is definitely her forte,” Trish added. “She’s working on a big project for me at the bar.”
“Really? I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. She is the best at puzzles. But what’s the project?”
“She’s doing a mosaic in the women’s restroom for me,” Trish beamed.
Landon grinned back. He’d remembered well how Kim tried to downplay any of her successes or achievements. He understood Trish’s role at the craft fair. Help sell the art and the artist. He’d already bought the package.
“Maybe I’ll have to get special permission to view it when you’ve finished.”
“Well don’t hold your breath,” Kim replied, finally meeting his gaze. “It could be a while.”
“I’m in no rush.” I’m not going anywhere.
Kim licked her lips and for a moment they stared at each other and the world fell away. The distant strumming of the ukuleles enhanced the moment. He put a hand to his chest and covered his heart. A flicker in her eyes, maybe a quick blink, told him she remembered the move. I love you.
“So,” Trish cleared her throat. “Are you searching for anything in particular today?”
“Nope,” he dragged his eyes away. “Actually, Kim do you think I could drag you away for a minute?”
Kim turned in her chair to Trish who waved her off.
“I’m fine here. Maybe I’ll get everything sold before you come back.”
“To whom? That man asleep over there on the bench?” Kim was incredulous, tilting her head to indicate the lone customer sitting on the benches close to the public parking lot.
“Hey, I’m a great saleswoman. And I have motivation. I’m pregnant, and I’m already hungry and exhausted. The sooner I sell all of your inventory the sooner I can go home to eat a pizza on my couch.”
Kim shook her head but pushed back her chair. Landon rounded the table and fell into step beside her. She led him down the cobbles toward the sidewalk. They passed a large building and continued on to the winding path through the ocean-front park. The dramatic contrast of the green grass with the rocky shore and Atlantic Ocean was captivating. Kim indicated that they’d walk down to the pier. They passed a few fishermen already set up on either side of the dock with their lines cast and eager sea birds waiting for the catch of the day. Continuing on to the very end of the pier, the sea breeze picked up and whipped Kim’s hair back. She grabbed it in a makeshift ponytail, securing it with her hand. He thought he’d like to wrap the thick strands around his palm.
“Landon, I wanted to say again that I’m…”
“Kim, forget it. Please,” he waved off her concern. “I’m happy that it worked out. I shouldn’t have stormed off. Unfortunately, I think I had more tied up in that project than I realized.”
Like building our future.
“I am sorry though.”
“Okay, so make it up to me.”
“How?” He watched her swallow.
“Come to dinner with me. Tonight. No excuses. You’ve won. There’s no more conflict of interest.”
“Tonight?” She scrunched up her nose and crossed her arms, dropping her hair down her back.
He wouldn’t let her push this off anymore. “Yes, tonight.”
“I’m a little tired after this week, to be honest.”
She rubbed her upper arms and studied her feet. He wouldn’t be put off. His plan to win her back had hit a few bumps, and he hadn’t been prepared for them. But now his path became clear.
“I get it. So why don’t we go out early. I’ll pick you up at five.”
The wind picked up and half her hair flew over her face, her eyes hidden from view. Without thinking, he brushed the strands off her forehead and behind her ears. His fingers collided with hers as she attempted to do the same. A current like an electric shock zinged through him but he couldn’t let go. He rested his fingers behind her ear, on her neck, under the guise of helping. He watched the flutter at the base of her neck as she gulped, just as affected by the deceptively casual touch.
“Okay, I think I can do that,” she murmured. She cleared her throat and took a step back, away from the charge in the air between them. “But I guess I really do need to get back to the craft fair to sell everything quickly, so I can have enough time to get ready.”
“I’d say you were ready now,” he grinned.
She rolled her eyes and chuckled. He knew her laugh was self-deprecating. She didn’t see herself the way he saw her. She saw flaws. He saw strengths. Maybe one day he’d convince her to see herself through his eyes. He’d never deserve her. But he wanted to try. He wanted to earn a real laugh from her, and he wanted to see her with a perma-smile plastered across her face. He wanted to spend every day with her.
One thing at a time. Take her to dinner. And then somehow figure out what’s next for my career.
“Let me walk you back.” Landon inclined his head back the way they’d come.
He took in the scene one last time. The glorious sunshine made the water sparkle almost as brilliantly as her gray green eyes. He’d figure this out. He wouldn’t give himself another choice.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Her truck rumbled down the road, alerting everyone on the block to her imminent arrival home. The sky still held daylight in the mid-afternoon, a light blue reflecting back on to the ground. But as far as Kim was concerned, it should
have been the middle of the night. Exhaustion didn’t even begin to describe the depths of her tiredness.
Trish had done a spectacular job of sales for her and true to her word, had sold everything. Kim never felt great about setting up a booth at the craft fair but her friend’s support and encouragement kept forcing her to face her inability to sell to strangers.
Kim glanced quickly at her wallet on the passenger seat. Trish had helped her make a tidy little profit. She was more than happy to help her friend out with the bathroom project in exchange for her continued help at the craft fair.
She had just enough time take a power nap before having to get ready for her date. Date. Even thinking the word made her stomach turn over. The flutters and anticipation she’d forgotten about in the years since they’d parted had returned. She tried to replay their conversation on the pier that morning. Did he want to go on a date or had he asked out of obligation? She cringed thinking back on her outfit. Her oldest jeans and softest polo and the wind had thrown her hair all over. She’d dressed for comfort that morning with only a hint of tinted moisturizer for color. She hadn’t been able to find her lip-gloss that morning and her dry lips had driven her to distraction. But he asked her out and her heart had leapt into her throat.
“Oh, no.”
Kim pulled her truck in front of her house. She couldn’t pull it into her driveway. Not with her grandmother’s car blocking her spot. She cut the engine and plastered a smile on her face. So much for that nap. Wrenching the heavy door open, Kim jumped down to the ground and slammed the door shut behind her.
“Hi Grandma, what are you doing here?” Kim called out to her front porch as she crossed the yard and made her way up the path.
“I thought I’d stop by and see you. Actually, I was thinking we might go out for a celebratory drink tonight. I wanted to come by earlier in the week, but if I know Lily she will have kept you on task every night.”
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