Page 101 of Whisper Sweet Nothings
“You had an impressive career,” I said. “And you know you’re still my favorite author.”
He’d hit theNew York TimesandUSA Todaybestseller lists multiple times. He’d actually had a brilliant career, and most people who knew him here in Rosewood River had no idea that he’d been a big deal in the publishing world back in the day. His books still sold well, and his royalties were pretty sweet; my aunt and uncle lived very comfortably. Their little café barely stayed profitable, but for them it was more about being involved in the community.
“And you’re my favorite author, aside from the sexy stuff. But Aunt Edith likes those parts, so who am I to say.”
“Okay, good to know.”
“I like seeing how happy you are being here,” my uncle said. “You’re away from that toxic ex of yours, and you seem to be spending a lot of time with Archer and Melody.” He gave me a mischievous grin.
“I’m the nanny, so obviously we spend time together.”
“That little girl is the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen, aside from you.” He smiled as his gaze locked with mine. “And I see the way that man looks at you, and I just want to make sure that you know that it’s okay to be happy again. You spent a lot of years being unhappy, and I know you came here to throw yourself into work and be on your own, but sometimes things happen for a reason. Don’t fight it.”
“Are you seriously giving me dating advice?”
“I wish I’d given you dating advice before you married that scoundrel.”
“Yeah, me too. But it’s all part of learning and growing, right?”
“Yes, but sometimes when you get out of something bad, it makes you feel like you need to protect yourself. And the truth is—when you get out of something bad, you should start looking for something good.”
“We’re going deep this morning, huh?” I chuckled.
“I just love you, sugar bear. I want you to have everything that you deserve.”
“Thank you. I’m glad we got to catch up this morning. I’m going to head over to the Vintage Rose to say hi to Emilia, and then I’m going to pop into Strawberry Fields and find something cute to wear on my date tonight.” We both moved to our feet.
“Your date, huh?”
“Yep. I’m having dinner with a real handsome single dad.” I waggled my brows. “See, you don’t need to worry so much. I promise I’m doing just fine.”
He whistled, which made me laugh, and I hugged both my aunt and uncle goodbye and promised to come see them over the weekend.
And I couldn’t wipe the smile from my face because I was having dinner with a man I was crazy about tonight.
And I was fairly certain that he was crazy about me, too.
And I hadn’t felt that kind of excitement in a very long time.
twenty-seven
. . .
Archer
I was relievedthat Melody had had a good day at school, and I reminded her that she could talk to me if anything was bothering her.
She was very excited to go to my parents’ house, as they were going to watch a movie and do some baking.
“Thanks again,” I said to my mom as I kissed her cheek. Melody had just run out the back door with my father to check out the chicken coop.
“So, you didn’t tell me what you were up to. And obviously Winnie is up to something if she isn’t staying with Melody.” She gave me a smirk.
I groaned. “You can’t help yourself, can you?”
“Not really. Just give me something.”
“Winnie and I are grabbing dinner tonight.” I crossed my arms over my chest. “We don’t want to make it a big deal, because we both want to be cautious with Melody. This could go nowhere, and I don’t want to make it confusing for her.”
