It would make sense if he did panic since he’d just moved in—with the tacit understanding that she’d be footing the bill while he did household chores, played the role of her live-in boyfriend, and figured his shit out. Instead, he asked, “Are you okay?”

She tilted her head. “That’s not what I expected you to say.”

“You’re deflecting. Did something happen?”

She smiled. “I mean, the mayor is an asshole who talks to my tits, but that’s nothing new. I gave my notice to focus on my campaign for city council. I have enough in the bank to pay the bills until after the election.”

“Wow, that’s incredible.” He couldn’t find the words to tell her how inspiring it was to see her set a goal then go after it, like she couldn’t imagine the prospect of failure.

“You’re not worried at all?” she asked, seeming incredulous.

“Nah. But I am wondering if there’s something I can do to help out. I’ve never volunteered on a political campaign, but it doesn’t look too hard on TV.” He grinned. “I can pass out flyers, and my paper collation is excellent. I can stand around at rallies and yell your name. What else is there? Oh, canvassing. Is that a thing? I’ll totally knock on doors for you.”

She reached over then, cupping his chin and turning his face toward her so suddenly that he dropped his spoon. Then she kissed him softly, tracing a fingertip down his cheek to his jaw. When she pulled back, her eyes were bright.

“Thank you for believing in me.”

“Was that even a question? You’re smarter than half the people currently on the council. I’m proud to be in your camp.”

“If you’re serious, I could definitely use the help. There’s so much to organize, and I don’t have a huge PR budget. I’ll need to rely on volunteers.”

“Start at the coffee klatch,” he suggested.

“I will. I’ll be at the office for two more weeks, then everything will ramp up. I’ll be able to do more with social media than Dan Rutherford. He probably says ‘on the Facebook.’”

Trev laughed and went back to eating his soup. “Nothing is guaranteed, but I’m betting you’ll do great. Just let me know how to help.”

“I will.”