Restore My Heart

by Leah Atwood

  Once he’d put on a pair of comfortable sneakers, he went to his desk and retrieved the ledger he’d sketched notes on last night and a list of questions for Cassidy. Where had he put his phone? He didn’t remember bringing it inside so he checked his truck and found it in a cup holder. A brief glance at the screen revealed no missed calls or messages.

  His two minutes were up, and he jogged to the motel office. Cassidy waited in a chair wearing a pair of Bermuda-length denim shorts and an orange and blue ribbed tank top. Glad I changed into casual clothes.

  She stood when he entered the door.

  “Thanks for coming. Sorry, I’m late.” He swung an arm to the actual office room behind the lobby and front desk. “We can talk in there.”

  Carrying a bottle of water, she followed him. “My friends left an hour ago for the afternoon convention meetings. I took that time to poke around, making some notes for you, just on basic things I noticed.”

  “Great.” He pointed to a chair. “Have a seat, and we’ll discuss them.”

  She sat down in the chair, a plastic relic of the eighties. Another thing he had to upgrade in time.

  Sitting behind the desk, he placed the ledger in from of him and grabbed a pen from the cup. Offered one to Cassidy, but she had her own.

  She crossed her legs, then leaned forward, ready to share notes and make some of her own. “Your choice of décor is on point. Will you continue with that theme in all the rooms?”

  “That’s my plan, but I wanted to get your opinion.” He flipped to the page he’d written on. “As of now, the completed rooms have Route 66 memorabilia that is not location specific and relics of Seligman. Do you think I should use items from other towns?”

  “If you spread out, I’d stick with this geographical area.” Tapping her pen against the table, she appeared deep in thought. “And it doesn’t have to be strictly related to the towns or Route 66. A few black and white or sepia photos of the landscape would be a great addition. Especially with the sagebrush and buttes. Maybe even an elk or antelope.”

  He nodded slowly. “I like it.”

  “Do you have a marketing plan?”

  “I plan on launching a grand opening when it’s ready, and working with several companies and organizations to have the Roadside Lodge featured on their sites.”

  “That’s a good start.”

  The way she said it left him feeling inadequate though he was sure that wasn’t her intention. “But not enough?”

  “You need a selling point to differentiate your motel from other accommodations available.” She circled her arms in a gesture to indicate she meant the entire building. “Why should someone stay here instead of going next door to The Desert Breeze or meandering further down the interstate?”

  He’d stumbled into territory over his head. She’d suggested a basic concept that he should have already thought about, but hadn’t. All he’d been concerned with so far was getting the motel up to code so he could open.

  She cast him a sympathetic gaze. “I had an idea if you’d like to hear it.”

  Well, duh. “I’d welcome any suggestions you have.”

  “I’ll be honest. When I first saw this place, I didn’t think much of it.” She put a palm forward, warding off a premature response from him. “I know all the work you’ve put into it, and all the work you plan. However, when most people come to a roadside motel, comfort isn’t forefront on their mind. They want the nostalgic experience or just a place to stay the night so they can move on in the morning.”

  Furrowing his brows, he tried to understand her point. “What are you saying?”

  “Comfort can be your niche. You’ve put a lot of time, and money I’m assuming, into making these rooms extremely comfortable. The mattresses rival those of a five-star hotel, but no one would know unless you advertise that.”

  “You’re saying to combine the nostalgia aspect with the quality and comfort facets to give a whole package?”

  Pencil still in hand, she raised a fist. “Exactly.”

  Several hours passed of exchanging ideas. Before he realized it, evening came, and he had pages worth of notes from their discussion.

  His stomach growled. Would an invitation to dinner be acceptable? He didn’t want to leave her yet.

  She gathered her belongings, seemed just as hesitant to leave.

  He took that as his cue. “Can I treat you to dinner as a thank you?”

  “You don’t owe me anything. This was my thanks to you for all you’ve done for my friends and me.” She tucked her notepad under her arm and stood.

  “In that case, will you have dinner with me because I want to spend more time with you?” He held his breath, surprising himself with his frankness.

  “I’d like that.”

  “There are several places in town.” A sly grin came over him. “Brave enough to try the Roadkill Café?”

  She shuddered. “It’s not actual roadkill, is it?”

  He winked.

  Her lips twisted as though deciding yes or no. “Of course not. That would violate every health code in the book.”

  “The burgers are good unless you’re a vegetarian.”

  “This girl likes her protein via meat.” She glanced down at her outfit. “Am I dressed too casual?”

  “Not at all. Do I take that as a yes?”

  “I’m up for anything, and who knows when the girls will be back.”

  He pushed back from the desk and stood. “Want to meet out front in five minutes? I’m going to drop my notes off in the house and pull the truck around.”

  “Sounds good to me.”

  Once they left the office and lobby, he locked the door behind him and hurried back to his house. He splashed a dab of cologne on his neck and ran a comb through his hair. When he met Cassidy, he noticed she’d done the same. She smelled of coconut and sunshine, which made him long for the beach. He hadn’t been in several years. Minutes ago her hair had been in a loose ponytail, but now it hung to her mid back in long, glossy waves.

  He opened his mouth to tell her she smelled nice, but changed his mind, thinking it sounded odd. Instead, he opened the passenger door for her. “Your hair looks nice down.”

  There, that was much less odd than commenting on her scent.

  “Thanks. I rarely wear it down in the summer because of the heat but wanted something different tonight.” A blush crept up her neck.

  His chest puffed, figuratively, when she virtually admitted that she’d done it for him. He circled to his side, hopped in, and drove the short distance to the restaurant. Not many cars were in the lot.

  “Good thing we’re not here an hour later, or we’d have to wait forever to get a table once the conference lets out for the evening.” He parked on the side, then went to open her door.

  “What were this afternoon’s topics at the convention?” She walked closely beside him.

  “Getting the younger generation interested and involved in preserving Route 66’s history.”

  “I’m surprised you didn’t go.”

  He accidentally kicked a pebble, and it flew several feet. “I had a meeting this morning to attend. Plus, I’m involved with the chamber of commerce and gave them some ideas to present.”

  “I should have known.” Her grin returned, and she looked at peace.

  Holding the door opened, he gestured for her to enter. “Ladies first.”

  “Thank you.” Her eyes widened as she took in the surroundings.

  He’d reacted similarly the first time he’d gone there. Stuffed animals—not of the toy variety—hung on the wall, along with dollar bills signed by famous people who’d eaten there over the years. Combined with the wooden tables, the restaurant presented a rustic atmosphere that fit the charm of Seligman.

  After they’d been sat at a table, he picked up the menu and perused it, though he generally ordered one of two things—the elk burger or buffalo burger on a pretzel bun.

  Across the table, Cassidy chuckled. “This menu is awesome.
I love the names. Treads and Bread. No Luck Buck. These are great.”

  Her unabashed amusement and laughing eyes reached into him and gripped his heart. When she let down her guard, she was even more beautiful. “Some people think it's kitschy, but it goes well with the brand.”

  “And here you let me think you didn’t understand marketing.” She winked, letting him know she was teasing.

  “I know the basics, just didn’t stop to think about it for me.” He shrugged, embarrassed at his lack of prep work.

  “You’re doing a great job. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.” She turned her gaze back to the menu. “What do you suggest?”

  Pointing to an item on the menu, he told her, “The elk burger on a pretzel bun is my favorite.”

  “I’ve never had elk. What does it taste like?”

  “A lot like beef, but with a hint of sweetness. That’s why I like it with the pretzel bun.”

  The waitress came to the table, dropping off the drinks they’d ordered when they first sat.

  He drank a sip of his iced tea in a mason jar, then ordered his usual.

  “I’ll have the same.” After the waitress had left, Cassidy grinned at him. “I’m feeling adventurous tonight.”

  An hour and a half later, he wondered how adventurous she still felt. Standing outside her door, with the street light shining on them, a boldness came over him.

  Feelings he hadn’t experienced in a long time surfaced. He hadn’t been romantically interested in anyone since he’d left Nevada. Go figure, his initiation would be a woman who was leaving in a day or two, but that gave him all the more reason to make the most of their time together.

  Did she feel the same? The hazy look in her eyes said she did. He gently brushed a hand over her hair, testing out a touch. When she didn’t move away and leaned her head forward, he took that as her acceptance. He moved his hand to cradle her cheek and lowered his head.

  Brushed his lips over hers with the slightest pressure. Lingered for several seconds before breaking away.

  She looked up at him with a lazy smile. “That was nice.”

  “It was.” Longing for contact, but hesitant to kiss her again, he placed his hands on her upper arms.

  “Do you have plans tomorrow?” Uncertainty shook her voice.

  “Nothing that can’t be changed. Why?”

  Crossing her arms, her fingers brushed against his hands. “When we broke down, we were headed toward Camp Margo, a camp I spent my summers at as a child. I’d like to still go, but the others are really into the convention. I know they’d still go if I asked, but I was wondering if…”

  Her vulnerability broke him. He couldn’t have said no even if he’d wanted—which he didn’t for the record. He’d welcome any time possible to spend with her. “What time do we leave?”

  “Is nine okay?”

  “Perfect.”

  A burst of new light interrupted their conversation. He looked over to see a curtain pulled back from room three and Rain peeking through the glass.

  Cassidy chuckled nervously. “I think we’ve been spotted.”

  “I’ll let you go. Call or text if anything changes.” He dropped his hands, already missing the contact.

  “Thanks for everything tonight.”

  “My pleasure.” He kissed her forehead. “Goodnight.”

  Chapter Seven

  She’d ignored the knocks last night, but she couldn’t avoid them this morning. By now, she was certain Rain had reported what she’d seen to the other three. Not that I blame her. I’d have done the same. Her admission made her laugh and reminded her of the time in high school when they’d all heard a rumor and had texted each other at the same time.

  Since then, they’d matured and curbed their gossip. For the most part.

  Unraveling the towel from her still damp hair, she took a deep breath and prepared herself for the onslaught of questions. She went to the door and opened it, finding Jessica, Rain, Lark, and Bridget on the other side.

  Ah, the old strength in numbers approach.

  The girls burst in without an invitation. That they didn’t think twice about their brash actions comforted rather than annoyed Cassidy. Only the best of friends would do that, and it was a reminder how blessed she was to have not one, but four best friends.

  “Spill it.” Rain grinned at her like the cat who caught the canary. “What happened last night?”

  Rain and Jessica plopped on the end of the bed while Lark and Bridget sat in the chairs around the table.

  “Joel and I went out to eat after we discussed ideas for the motel.” She shrugged, hoping to send them a message it was not a big deal.

  Lark narrowed her eyes. “We’re not talking about dinner. We want to know what happened outside.”

  “Under the moonlight,” Jessica added with a wink.

  Bridget rested her elbows on the table and leaned forward. “And don’t leave anything out.”

  Her cheeks warmed, but she couldn’t stop her smile. “He kissed me.”

  Squeals reminiscent of their junior high days pierced her eardrums.

  “I knew it!” Rain’s grin went from ear to ear.

  “How was it?” Jessica asked.

  “Good.” She crossed her legs on the bed and sighed. “But don’t go getting ideas in your head. We’re leaving tomorrow or Tuesday, and that’s it.”

  Lark furrowed her brows. “Don’t write off love just because it seems impossible.”

  “Maybe this is God’s answer to your prayers.” Jessica’s amusement of several seconds ago had been replaced with a solemnness. “You’ve been trying to figure out what to do next, and your heart has always been in the hospitality industry.”

  “Jess is right.” Bridget nodded in agreement. “You’ve told me before you enjoyed your job with Elon but didn’t receive satisfaction from it. Here’s a great guy trying to get his motel up and running. I’m not God, but it does seem like Joel could have been brought into your life for a reason.”

  The prospect overwhelmed her, but she gave her friends’ words careful consideration. She’d only known Joel several days, but didn’t every couple have a first-time meeting? They had to start somewhere. And she’d never kissed a guy just for the fun of it, which spoke volumes to last night’s kiss. Somewhere inside of her, she must have believed a small possibility of a relationship existed.

  Scared by the thought, she checked her watch. Saved by the time. “As lovely as this conversation is, I have to get ready. Joel’s picking me up in twenty minutes.”

  Rain beamed. “Where are you going?”

  “He’s taking me to Camp Margo.” She saw the confused looks on their faces and rushed to explain. “I knew you guys wanted to attend the conference again and with our delay here, we won’t have much extra time on the road after we leave.”

  “We would have gone with you, but I’m glad you asked Joel.” Jessica stood from the bed. “I think you should explore what’s there with him.”

  “I agree.” Rain rose from the bed as well. “Love’s too precious to let it slide through your fingers.”

  She waved a finger and shook her head. “No one said anything about love.”

  Lark snickered. “Yet.”

  “Oh, good grief. Leave the poor girl alone.” Bridget came over and gave her a hug, then whispered in her ear, “But I want full details of today when you get back.”

  Cassidy laughed. “I love you guys, but scat.”

  ***

  Cassidy’s stomach knotted as they neared Camp Margo. “Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.”

  “Why not?” Joel darted a quick glance at her before returning his eyes to the road.

  “I haven’t been there in well over a decade. What’s the point of even going?” She stared out the window, focusing on a red butte in the distance. “I can’t reclaim that part of my childhood.”

  “Nobody can, but sometimes it helps to remember the good times.”

  “Camp was the only good part of my s
ummers.” She leaned her head against the seat. “Depending on if my parents scheduled our vacation at the end of the summer or beginning, camp gave me something to look forward to, or fond memories to get me through wherever my parents took me afterward.”

  “You stayed at camp the entire summer?”

  “Pretty much. I never knew if my parents wanted a break from me, or genuinely thought they were giving me a great opportunity.” She’d always leaned toward the latter, but everything with her dad made her questions events, even from years ago.

  “I would say it worked out either way. Admittedly you loved camp, so it was a positive experience.” Joel offered a compassionate smile.

  “That’s true.” She picked up her water bottle, took a sip, then replaced it in the cup holder. “Deep down, I know my parents love me, but since Dad’s arrest, I can’t shake the feeling I don’t know him at all.”

  “Which is understandable.” He switched hands on the wheel then reached over to give her hand a squeeze. “When a large betrayal happens, it makes you second guess everything. This is on a different level, but when I bought the hotel, the inspector was in cahoots with the seller.”

  “How so?”

  “There was a crack in the foundation the inspector failed to report, and it sucked up a large portion of my money which is why the motel isn’t finished yet. I’m working on finding the funds to finish now.”

  “I’m so sorry.” She’d guess there’d been a hang up but hadn’t imagined it stemmed from corruption. “Can you take them to court?”

  “I’ve already talked to a lawyer, and he said it would be a long shot for different reasons.” He put both hands on the steering wheel to navigate a turn. “I couldn’t understand why it happened, and it shook my faith a little. I’d prayed about the decision and had a clear answer from God, but then I hit a major snag. I wasn’t sure if I’d heard God wrong, and I doubted every decision I made on who to hire because I didn’t trust anyone.”

  She blew out a breath that tickled her lips. “Boy, do I understand that.”

  “I guess what I’m trying to say, is we’re going to face hurts in this life and situations we don’t understand, but that doesn’t change the facts.” He came to a stop in front of the entrance of Camp Margo and turned to look at her. “No matter what happens, God is in control. When everything else spins out of orbit, we have confidence that his power and strength and leadership will keep us in one piece.”