“Thanks, Gem,” Leah said.
“So… you and Cole?”
“We kissed.”
“But you want it to be more?”
“I think so.” Leah’s phone beeped in her ear and she looked to see who was calling.
It had to be important, since Brian didn’t take her silence as a clue she didn’t want to be bothered. Leah ran a hand down her neck. When her phone buzzed again, she checked to see he sent a text message.
1:15 PM… Brian: Hear me out Leah. That’s all I ask
She put the phone back to her ear. “Gem, I’ll talk to you later. I need to change and head back to the boutique.”
“No problem.”
Leah hung up cradling her phone in her hands. A small part of her wanted to know what he wanted. What if he needed closure? As she tapped her lips, she sent her reply.
1:20 PM… Leah: Okay
****
“Thanks for doing this, Cole,” Jeremy said. He twisted his wristwatch. “If only April would hurry and change.”
Cole chuckled. “I wouldn’t rush her. I’ve learned that a woman likes looking her best in engagement photos.”
Jeremy stuffed his hands in his pockets. “I’m getting married.” A glazed look overtook his face.
Cole cocked his head to the side. “You’re ready, right?”
Closing his eyes and exhaling deeply, Jeremy met his stare. “I know I am. It’s a little… overwhelming.”
&nbs
p; “You wouldn’t change things, would you? About April?”
Jeremy stared into space, as if smiling at nothing. A silly love-struck look made his eyes beam. “No, I wouldn’t change my mind. I love April more than anything.”
Immediately, Cole recognized the feeling. Leah’s face was like a light that brightened his days. If she called his phone now, he would race to answer. What he wouldn’t give to see her, but he couldn’t abandon his work. Was she thinking about him as he was about her? Taking a deep breath, Cole willed his body to relax. He loved the sound of her laugh. Her bravery, though she denied half the time what she could do.
“Are you okay?” Jeremy asked, waving his hand in front of Cole as if to wake him up.
Repeatedly Cole blinked. “Yeah, why?”
“I asked what you thought of the mid-century modern house I showed you two days ago.”
“It was nice, but not my style. It has the space, but I can’t see myself living there.”
His friend bobbed his head. “I’ll make a note of that. I’ll get back on it. I have two more lined up for you so let me know when you’re free.”
“I will.” Would Leah like his place once he chose one? He imagined her coming over and cooking dinner with him. Would they bake her beloved treats or stick to the homemade meals they grew up eating?
“Cole, you sure you’re okay?”
He swallowed. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
Jeremy shrugged his shoulders. “Nothing. Looks like I’m not the only one thinking about his woman.”