“Thanks, Mom. Nate might be coming by later so we can go for a bike ride.”

“Oh, good.” That made her smile as did the doorbell. She opened the door to feel her heart kick up at the sight of Rich. “Just had time to return phone calls, so perfect timing.”

“Thank you, I try. You look lovely.”

“Thank you, kind sir.” She felt like curtsying, like laughing. When he extended his bent arm, she slid hers through and together they walked to the car, a silver Lexus, not his usual truck. He opened the door and assisted her to get seated. “How come this car is sporting the new car smell?”

“The air freshener. I like it and I think she does too.” He patted the roof as he closed the door. After he settled his seat belt, his smile lit up the car. “You look good enough to eat.”

“Hardly. I’d be tough and stringy.” She shook her head. “You must be crazy.”

“I think I am, crazy in love with you.”

Her mouth dropped open. “Ah, Rich, we’ve only known each other for, say, six weeks. You can’t—”

“Oh, yes I can. I’ve known since I first saw you walk around my house to the deck. I almost said so at that very moment but I didn’t want to scare you. Besides, I was in shock. Sorry, I was planning on this conversation at the restaurant.”

“Really?” Her voice squeaked. She stared straight ahead as he backed out of the drive and headed north. “W-where are we going?”

“Country club, François is head chef tonight and I asked him to make us something special. No idea what it will be, but he outdoes himself when given a chance.”

“I see.” But her head was still reeling.

“Have you eaten there before?”

“Perhaps, a long time ago.” She could feel his glances because her body heated up with each one. How could she tell him that she’d never planned on something like this happening, that she was very comfortable with her life as it was. Simple, busy, and so rewarding.

He laid his hand on her thigh. “Don’t stew about this, okay? We’ll take it one step at a time.”

“Right.” How could she not think about it? He tips her world upside down and sends it spinning off its axis, and her heart is screaming “woohoo” while her mind is just reeling. Okay, think about something else. Now, Roxanne Jean Gilburn! “Ah—how was your day?”

“My day was splendid. The latest sale is giving us a solid boost, drawing in many new customers, my daughter announced last night that she’s pregnant, and Nate is happy with Loren.” He grinned at her. “And yours?”

“I have a new out-of-state client who wants a house now because he would like to have some things in place before he starts work here in two weeks. He and his wife will arrive Monday and he asked if I can give them all the time they need to make good decisions. I think I have the perfect house for them from what he described. In fact, I have several to show them. My son is planning to come here for a visit now that school is out, so you’ll be able to meet him and his family.”