“There are many definitions of success, Martha, and they don’t all involve money. You’re making assumptions about me based on your own prejudices. I’ll go get us a table.” He left the car and slammed the door behind him.

Martha flinched. Prejudices? He was accusing her of having prejudices? His success was a fact, not opinion.

What did he have to be angry about?

She watched as he strode across the parking lot and saw him pause outside the diner. He ran his hand over the back of his neck and she saw his shoulders move as he breathed deeply and composed himself.

Behind her, Kathleen stirred. “What’s the matter with Josh?”

“When he talked about a boss who wouldn’t let him take a vacation, he was talking about himself. He’s the boss.”

“I know.”

“You know?” Martha turned to look at her. “And you didn’t think it was a fact worth sharing?”

“I knew you’d be intimidated, and I didn’t want that to happen. I wanted you to get to know each other a little first. Did you fight about something?”

“Sort of.” Why did she feel guilty? Because she’d upset him in some way, and he’d been nothing but kind. It was a strange situation because being closeted together in the car created a false intimacy. They were close, and yet not close. The fact that she’d upset him and had no idea why was a sharp reminder that they didn’t know each other at all.

It shouldn’t have mattered, but it did.

Kathleen reached forward and patted her on the shoulder. “You like him, don’t you?”

“Not anymore.”

“You like him.”

“Okay, I like him but I’m not getting involved with someone who makes me feel bad about myself.”

“No one can make you feel bad about yourself unless you let them.”

“That’s a great theory. In practice it’s not that easy.”

“Character is more important than bank balance. Josh has been heroic in his actions.”

“Because he found a doctor?”

“He also found bacon, which tells me he’s a man who has his priorities straight.” Kathleen lowered her sunglasses and looked at Martha. “Talk to him. I need to use the restroom, and I’m going to be at least fifteen minutes.”

“Fifteen? Are you planning to redecorate or something?”

“I plan to give you enough time for a proper conversation with Josh.”

“I’d rather have a conversation with you,” Martha said. “You’ve been quiet and tired the last couple of days. I should come with you.”

“You’re my driver, not my nurse although after my fainting episode I do understand why you might think your job description has expanded somewhat.” Kathleen gathered up her bag and her wrap and emerged into the bright sunlight. “Go. It’s the perfect moment.”