“No. He didn’t race this year. I went to all the parties here, though. That was fun.”

“I’m sure it was. It’s always a fun weekend.” That was another thing she liked about Ben. He was social and outgoing, like she was. She was glad she’d suggested the golf lesson. She couldn’t get a read, though, on if Ben was attracted to her at all. He had the kind of personality where he was charming and flirtatious with all women in a fun way. But it made it harder to tell if he just thought of her as a friend.

When they finished up, and the waiter cleared their table, Andrea asked him for the check. He seemed startled by the request at first then glanced at Ben. “There is no check. Ben has a house account here.”

“Oh, okay.” When he walked away, Andrea turned to Ben, “I wanted to treat you.”

He flashed her that smile. “Sorry. You’re actually doing me a favor, though, by coming here. I have to spend a certain amount at the restaurant every month as part of my membership. So, it just went toward that.”

“Okay. Well, thank you, then.”

They walked out and when they reached their cars, Ben asked, “So, think you’re up for an actual round on the golf course soon?”

“Do you think I’m ready for that?” Andrea was a little nervous and wondered if she needed more time on the driving range first.

“The best way to learn how to play golf is to play golf. I can take you through and give you some pointers as we go. If you’re interested.”

“Oh, I’m definitely interested!”

Chapter 19

David noticed that Paula had been a little cold towards him since their meeting where he gave her the feedback that she needed to be firmer with the people she managed. He could immediately tell that he’d upset her, and knew she was sensitive and had been worried about moving into the role to begin with. He thought he was helping, though, so she could try and improve and develop her management skills.

He’d been encouraged when he saw Michelle in her office not long after their chat and took it as a good sign that she was making an effort already to improve. He’d nodded and smiled but she’d simply turned and went back into her office. And since then, she’d been a little distant toward him. And he didn’t like it.

He realized he’d enjoyed their interactions. Paula was smart, and they both enjoyed analyzing data and using it to guide their decisions. And they’d had fun working on the Taste of the Town event together. She’d made him laugh with her stories about nightmare brides and though he didn’t talk about the situation with his mother much, when he did, Paula was a good listener.