Everyone around the table laughed. Except for Serenity, who kept her gaze on her plate. When she finally looked up, he was studying her with a puzzled expression. Maybe he’d meant it as a joke, but the backhanded comment stirred up painful memories she thought she had lain to rest. She couldn’t wait for dinner to end.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3

Monday morning, Gabriel had three hours to kill before his noon meeting with Darius and Brent, so he decided to tour the town to see what had changed over the years. His body hadn’t yet adjusted to the time, and he’d been up since six. Backing out of the driveway, he saw Serenity and waved. She hesitated briefly, then threw up a quick hand in reply before getting into her own car. He shook his head and sighed. So much for trying to be friendly.

He drove to Main Street—it seemed that every small town had one—parked his car, and started up the block. As he walked and took in his new environment, his thoughts went back to Serenity. To say he’d been surprised that the woman from the grocery store was his new neighbor would be an understatement. He was still confused by her attitude after he complimented her cooking and even more now with her reluctance to merely wave back. His sister and grandmother had raved about her being sweet and kind, but so far he hadn’t seen much of that. Was she still upset by his teasing comment about the corn and her cooking? Maybe he should apologize.

Putting her out of his mind, Gabriel checked out the stores lining the surrounding streets. An hour later, he had gone several blocks and was pleasantly surprised to see an auto shop, two clothing boutiques, a pharmacy, the doctor’s office—where he assumed Serenity worked—and an ice cream parlor. But what caught his attention was the bakery and family-style restaurant.

At the corner, he crossed the street and entered Ms. Ida’s Home Cooking. Gabriel had eaten breakfast earlier, but the amazing smells that engulfed him made his stomach sit up and take notice. Sort of like it had on Saturday with Serenity’s food. It had taken great effort not to moan out loud as he ate the flaky salmon covered in that sweet glaze. He had never been a fan of kale, but the addition of the dried cranberries and whatever dressing she’d used had him rethinking his position.

“Good morning. You want a table or booth, honey?” a cheerful older woman called out as she approached the hostess stand.

“Would it be possible to do takeout?”

“Of course. I’ll get you a menu.” She took the three short steps necessary to retrieve one and handed it to him. “You’re new around here.”