“Why not? As much as you’ve done for this town, everyone knew it was just a matter of time before you became mayor.”
“Apparently, Nessa doesn’t see things that way.”
“Has Nessa ever argued with you before?”
“No.”
“Then why would she start now?”
“I’m not making this up, CeCe. So did you approach the council or did Nessa approach you?”
CeCe hesitated. “Well, actually, now that I think about it, Nessa brought it u
p to me.”
Doreen sagged on her chair. “I was afraid of that.”
“Are you glad the election’s almost over?” At a vile hour the next morning, Darius stood poised to document Doreen’s response into his reporter’s notebook.
It was just after six-thirty the morning of November fourth, Election Day. The Heritage High School gymnasium served as one of the town’s polling locations. He’d arrived early to cast his vote and cover the event for The Trinity Falls Monitor. Doreen had cast her vote already as well. Actually, she’d been the first in line.
Darius nodded at Lei Chang, one of the Monitor’s photojournalists, as she strode past him toward the parking lot. His coworker had arrived at the polls early to take the money shot of Doreen casting her ballot. Lei had taken several pictures of Doreen. She’d also photographed Jackson, Nessa, and other prominent Trinity Falls residents as they stood in line at the polls.
“I don’t know why I’m so anxious. I’m running unopposed.” Doreen’s voice bounced with nervous energy. She folded her dark green winter coat over her left forearm. “Can you imagine how tense I’d be if someone was actually challenging me?”
“This is a big day. Your anxiety is understandable.” Darius waited for a better quote.
Doreen’s brown eyes widened. She slapped her hand to her mouth, then let it drop to her side. “I probably shouldn’t have said that. I’m going to have to learn to be more careful of what I say around you.”
“Only when I’m on the job.” Darius gave her a reassuring smile. “What are your thoughts on the election?”
This time, Doreen took a moment to consider his question. “Right now, I can’t think beyond how excited I am to get started. Ramona worked hard to get the town out of tremendous debt after years of mismanagement. I’d like to build on her successes and secure an even greater surplus.”
“I look forward to hearing more about your ideas to do that.”
The sound of the entrance door opening interrupted their conversation. A cold blast of air flew down the corridor. Darius looked down the hall—and lost his breath. The heels of Peyton’s black pumps snapped against the silver flooring. Her burgundy wool coat complemented the pink flush of her cheeks.
“Good morning, Professor.” Darius inclined his head toward her. His body hardened with the memory of their kiss.
“Good morning, Darius.” Peyton’s soft greeting triggered a reaction in his gut. Her shaky smile brightened as she stopped beside Doreen. “I imagine you had trouble sleeping last night.”
“Your imagination is right.” Doreen laughed self-consciously.
“I’m excited to cast my vote for you.”
“Thank you.” Doreen’s nervous expression relaxed.
Peyton nodded toward Darius before crossing into the gym.
“I’m also anxious to implement Ramona’s suggestion of a community center fund-raiser.” Doreen’s comment brought Darius back to his interview. “Have you given any more thought to cochairing that committee?”
Darius stilled. “Was it your idea for me to be cochair?”
“No, but I think it’s a good one.” Doreen shrugged into her coat.
“I don’t.” Darius wrestled back his residual reaction to kissing Peyton. “I don’t need any help with my personal life. I don’t want help, either.”
“We want you to be happy, Darius.” Doreen squeezed his forearm.