“I can imagine.” Jake’s mother was sweet and funny, but she could be determined and intense.

“How’s work?” he asked.

“Excellent. I have a few new clients who are keeping me busy.”

They talked about several inventions she’d helped bring to market and which ones had failed. After placing their order, they chatted about their friends and what was going on in town.

“The snow is late,” Jake said. “This is going to be a tough ski season.”

“I know. Usually the first snowfall is in late October. We’re well into December. This has never happened before. Everyone is freaking out.”

“Are you going to The Wreath for the first snowfall?” he asked.

“Absolutely. I’m usually not home for it anymore, so if it happens while I’m here, I’m celebrating until I freeze.”

His expression turned quizzical. “You said home. I would have thought Seattle was home now.”

“Slip of the tongue. Part of it is I’ve been back since before Thanksgiving, so I’m returning to my native daughter status.” She grinned. “Oh, I have to tell you about Belle. You’ll never guess what happened.”

“She carries a handbag now?”

“Better. She stood up to Burt.”

“You’re kidding. She’s terrified of him.”

“Not anymore. She growled at him and it totally changed their relationship.”

“Tell her I’m proud of her.”

“I will.”

The rest of the evening passed quickly. Reggie was pleased she and Jake never ran out of things to talk about, although she wasn’t sure there was any lingering attraction. He was nice and all, but she didn’t feel any flutters or daydream about him touching her.

When they’d finished their meal, they talked over coffee before leaving the restaurant. Once they were on the main floor of the hotel, Jake walked with her toward the lobby. Partway there, he pulled her off to the side, into a secluded alcove. He drew her close and kissed her.

Reggie closed her eyes, wanting to fully focus on the kiss. She felt the warm, gentle pressure of his mouth. His touch was familiar and nice. Happy memories made her lean in. She’d enjoyed her evening with Jake and kissing him was...was...

She held in a sigh. It was nothing. Pleasant, but there was no sense of anticipation. She wasn’t tingling or excited about taking things to the next level. He didn’t make her breathless or happy or overwhelmed by passion. Not anymore. What they’d been to each other, when they’d been in love and engaged, had been lost.

He broke the kiss and stared at her, his expression tight with regret.

“It’s gone,” he said quietly. “Whatever we had. It’s over.”

The sadness in his voice affected her way more than the kiss. She fought against unexpected tears. “Yes.”

“I’d hoped for more,” he admitted.

“Me, too.”