“That’s why I need your help.” I explain what I thought was obvious. “The first time, he got sick. I need to show him what I love about Colorado, but in a way he can enjoy. You’re the best person to ask for help.”

“I guess you’re right.” She perks back up but doesn’t bother to grab her glasses.

“Oh!” Daisy slaps my arm. “What about a mini road trip? Nothing too far, maybe something two or three hours away so you have uninterrupted talking time.”

“Yes!” I hold up my hand for a high five this time. “Now you’re thinking. Let’s build on that.”

We sit around the table, planning my date, only stopping when our waiter brings us food and/or new drinks.

And by the time we’re finished, Jasper should be worried that he’s not the only person who can plan a book-worthy day out. I just hope mine has something of a happy ending as well.

CHAPTER 16

“Want another licorice?” Jasper waves a Red Vine in my peripheral. “We’re starting to run low, but we still have popcorn and jerky left.”

You’d think after spending so much time with Jasper over the last few weeks, I’d be over that butterflies-in-my-belly feeling by now. I know I’m not a relationship expert or anything, but there’s no way this is a sustainable feeling. It has to fade away at some point. But for some reason, every time he says “we” with such ease, my insides go wild.

“I can’t say no to Red Vines. It’s one of my fatal flaws.” I snatch it from his hand and rip off a bite before I can think better of it. I always steal them from him when he’s at the Book Nook; he’s started bringing an extra pack just for me.

“Death by licorice isn’t one I’ve seen before; it should lead to an interesting obituary.” There’s laughter in his voice, but he’s kind enough to keep it under control.

“Did you know that black licorice can be toxic in large amounts? It messes with your potassium levels, gives you high blood pressure, and fucks up your heart.” Do I know anything that can come in handy and help me turn my business into a cash cow? Absolutely not. But I do know random facts about licorice, and who is to say which is greater? “Plus, it’s disgusting. So there’s also that.”

“It really is awful.” He tosses the bag I stuffed full of junk food in the back seat. “I can’t imagine liking it so much you poison yourself.”