“Just because I’m not interested in romance, doesn’t mean I’m treating my life as if it’s over. You were going to tell me about cheese.”

“In a minute. You’re scared, I get it. Love is the biggest risk you take, isn’t it?” She thought about all the missed calls and messages waiting on her phone from Jon and the thought of it stressed her out so much she leaned across, cut some cheese and ate it. “I mean, it’s your heart, and your trust, and giving all that to someone is a big deal because you’re basically giving them the most vulnerable part of you. What if you ruin everything?” She stared at Joanna. “Okay, maybe this whole love thing is overrated. Maybe we should just live here, make grilled cheese and grow old together. That sounds safer.”

“Are we talking about me or you? I’ve lost track.”

“Both of us. I have feelings for Jon.” She wouldn’t have admitted that to anyone but Joanna. “I always have. But he’s been a good friend to me, and I guess I’m afraid of losing that. Everything is going to change.”

“You haven’t listened to the messages?”

“No. Haven’t had the courage. Because the moment I listen to those messages I’m going to have to respond, and I still haven’t figured out the best way to tell him about the baby.” And now she felt embarrassed, because she’d nudged Joanna out of her comfort zone but was staying firmly within her own. But this was different. Wasn’t it?

“Maybe he saw the news and he already knows.”

“Maybe. All the more reason to figure out what I want before we talk. When you and Nate went from friends to something more than friends, were you nervous?”

Joanna put the knife down. “No. Nate was always in my life. Friend, then lover—it seemed a natural progression. I didn’t think about it ruining our friendship because I didn’t think that would happen. It didn’t cross my mind.” She glanced at Ashley. “That was pretty naive of me, wasn’t it?”

“No. Did it feel strange seeing him again?”

“Surprisingly, no. It felt natural and easy. Which is why I’m going to do it again.” Joanna picked the knife up again. “When you’ve taught me three courses, I’m going to invite him to dinner.”

“You—” Ashley gaped at her. “You’re inviting him to dinner?”

“Yes. But everyone in this town knows I’m a terrible cook, so I’m going to need some practice first. I need you to help me pick a menu. I want it to be about the conversation, but I don’t want to poison him with one of my usual charred offerings.”