It had been so long since she’d felt it that she was surprised she even recognized it. But it turned out it was a sensation that you didn’t forget. Fortunately it was a sensation you could also hide and she was confident she’d made it through her first meeting with Nate without making a total fool of herself. It was normal that she’d think about the past, and what they’d once shared together. It meant nothing, and neither did the warmth of his smile.

Nate had always been an amiable, friendly guy. He smiled at everyone. Made everyone around him feel comfortable and important.

Yes, she’d felt something when she saw him again but she wouldn’t be doing anything to encourage those feelings. She wouldn’t be exploring where they might take her.

No matter how much Ashley tried to persuade her, she wouldn’t be dating. She wouldn’t be scanning photographs and bios on the internet, pondering over guys who claimed to like long walks in the country and movie nights. She wasn’t going to be dreaming of romance. She didn’t want romance. She’d be content with peace and quiet and a life that didn’t involve being followed around by people with cameras.

“There it is—” Ashley grabbed her arm and pointed to the boutique Mel mentioned. “Can we go there?”

“Of course.” Maybe Ashley’s enthusiasm would distract her. And inside a store it was less likely that anyone would spot them.

Joanna pushed open the door and Ashley gave a murmur of appreciation as she saw the neatly stacked shelves and racks of clothes.

“Welcome!” A woman appeared from the back of the store. She was the epitome of style. She wore high heels, a fitted dress in a flattering shade of blue and her hair fell past her shoulders in carefully curated waves. “If you need any help, or you can’t find something in your size, just let me know and I’ll—Joanna?” She moved closer, scanned Joanna’s face carefully and then smiled. “Joanna! It is you.”

Joanna froze. It was inevitable that someone would recognize her, but she’d hoped it would be later rather than sooner. “Rosa. How are you?”

“I’m good! I had no idea you were in town.”

“I haven’t publicized it.”

“Of course you haven’t. Why would you?” Rosa rolled her eyes in acknowledgment of the challenges. “Well, I for one am glad you’re home.”

Home? Did Silver Point feel like home?

“Thank you, Rosa.” Joanna remembered her manners. “This is Ashley. She’s staying with me.” She watched Rosa closely, waiting for her reaction, but Rosa’s face didn’t change.