I Only Have Pies for You (Pumpkin Spice Life 1)

“Well, I can promise you, it’s nothing like that here.”

“I don’t know. You’re the first person who welcomed me with open arms.”

“It takes folks around here a minute to warm up to newcomers. Hang in there.” He winked.

“Why not you?”

He leaned back and smiled. “Because I’m less traditional and open-minded.”

Is he flirting with me? Have I been in the city so long I’m mistaken kindness for more than it is?

“I hate to hear your introduction to our town has been less than satisfactory. How about I make it up to you?”

“What do you have in mind, hero?”

“Well, my congregation at St. James, a local catholic church, is having it’s an annual festival. It’d be a great time to meet some of the community, especially the makers and crafters. Many of them have booths.”

She bit the inside of her cheek. The apartment above the shop was getting lonely. She didn’t know anyone locally, and despite her enthusiasm for the shop, she longed for a bit of human interaction.

“Careful, you might find yourself on the wrong side of the town’s people making nice with the newbie.”

“I’m willing to take the chance.” He leaned against the ladder, and she took a seat on the top. He was tempting with his cerulean eyes, easy smile, and charm.

What could it hurt?

“What time were you thinking, hero?”

“Eight o’clock? I could pick up here if you’re comfortable with it.”

She gave him a slow once over. “You seem like the honest type to me. I figure I’m safe enough. I mean, you’re a hero after all.”

“You’re not going to let that go, huh?” he asked bashfully.

She shook her head. “Not a chance.”

“Give me time. I’ll return the favor with a nickname for you, snickerdoodle.” She wrinkled her nose. “Yeah, I know that was really bad. That’s my favorite cookie, and it popped into my head.”

Good to know. She’d be baking him cookies as thank you for his offer of friendship and help today.

“I’m glad you saw me in the window and stopped by,” she admitted.

“Me too. Had I known the owner was so lovely, I would’ve made sure our meeting happened sooner.”

Blowing a few stray curls out of her face, she thought of her rolled-up, worn blue jeans and threadbare Cincinnati Reds shirts.

She wagged her finger at him. “You, sir, are a charmer.”

“In this case, I’m simply speaking the truth.”

That was definitely flirting.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Reluctantly, he stepped away from the ladder. “I came out to get a bit of air, but the boys will be wondering where I am now. I imagine I should get back to work. Even the boss has to pull his own weight.”

“Me too. Thank you again for stopping by.” He held the ladder steady as she climbed down. There was something incredibly gentlemanly about his mannerisms. It drew her like a moth to a flame after a long bout in the darkness. To say her dating life had entered the drought stage would be a gross understatement. She hadn’t had the time or the inclination. Work took up most of her time, and the men she did meet weren’t interested in more than a casual bed partner.

She wanted more, so she refused to settle. The motto had gotten her this far. She wouldn’t stop using it now. Is it a mistake, even thinking of dating a local business owner? He’s got to be an eligible bachelor. It’ll give them even more of a reason to dislike me.