by Kiki Swinson
“Whatever.” Kaitlyn’s countenance was one of pure confidence. “I’m just sayin’ . . .”
Jacqueline sat back and crossed her arms. “And you know this because?”
“Because when I met the man who drank out of my shoe? I married him!”
This comment sent the table into another vocal frenzy.
“You’re lying.”
“No, he didn’t!”
“Sounds like a wild and crazy date!”
“Geez! I’ll never look at good old Harry the same way again.”
Jacqueline sat back and took it all in. These were her girls; some she’d known for years and others a few months. Their sisterhood and support were genuine. Only one of her besties was missing. Kris. Her ride-or-die BFF who’d been there forever. She couldn’t wait to share this great piece of news with the main one who’d been beside her during both good times and bad.
“Okay, maybe asking him to sip from your heels is a bit extreme.”
You think? Jacqueline’s raised brow seemed to imply.
“But there are still good men out there. I finally found one, though it took me three tries.”
“Evidently my radar on good men is in need of repair.”
“My mother always told me that when you meet him, you’ll know.” Kaitlyn sat back, thoughtful. “I have to admit, it wasn’t until Harry came along that I knew what she meant.”
Intrigued, Jacqueline eyed her. “How was he different?”
“It was natural, easy,” Kaitlyn said with a shrug. “He felt like an old shoe.”
“Ha! What is it with you and shoes?” Rosie asked.
Kaitlyn laughed. “I don’t know. Probably time for a new pair.” Her voice became serious as she looked at Jacqueline. “I didn’t have to try with Harry. I was just myself. He felt right, and good, from the beginning. That’s how I knew it. Maybe that’s how you’ll know it too.”
“Sounds easy, but again, with the bad luck I’ve been having, I’m just not sure.”
“I understand your being cautious. Just don’t shut totally down. Leave a little space in your heart open to love. A little light, so the right man can find it.”
They toasted to that and once the entrées arrived, the conversation moved around to other things. Later, however, Kaitlyn’s words still echoed. Jacqueline wanted to find love, really hoped that it would happen. But during this assignment and over the next three months, at least? She wouldn’t go looking for it.
