7. Teddy #2
"I'd been wondering if you'd be free later this evening," Cecilia continued, her tone carrying an unmistakable invitation as she tilted her head.
"A few of us are gathering for coffee at the Hollow Table diner to discuss some of the festival logistics, and I'd love for you to join us.
My treat, as a small token of gratitude. "
Teddy experienced a sudden twinge within her chest, the unexpected reaction taking her by surprise.
She tightened her jaw as she watched Kent's face.
A bitter spike of jealousy surged beneath her ribs, a sensation so intense and unfamiliar that it left her momentarily breathless.
She'd devoted her entire life to building independence because she'd assumed vulnerability was a liability.
Yet watching another woman openly pursue Kent triggered a protective urge that she couldn't suppress.
Watching Cecilia's casual confidence, Teddy experienced the old familiar pull of isolation pressing against her ribs. She hated how much Kent's attention mattered to her, and she hated even more that another woman could move into his space with such easy grace.
Kent didn't hesitate. His expression remained calm and level, his gaze unwavering as he met Cecilia's hopeful eyes.
"Thank you for the offer," Kent said, his voice carrying a clear and respectful boundary. "I’m afraid I have to decline. Submitting the county livestock reports requires my full attention tonight, but I appreciate the thought."
"Perhaps another time then. My schedule is always wide open for you, Kent," Cecilia replied, her smile dimming slightly but her tone remaining gracious.
She gathered her dog's leather leash, giving Kent a warm farewell before departing into the morning sunlight.
The brass bell chimed as the heavy door closed behind her.
Kent turned toward the counter, his amber eyes immediately locking onto Teddy.
A genuine delight softened his features as he saw her standing near the display.
The subtle shift in his expression was immediate, the distant professionalism he'd maintained with Cecilia melting into a deep, focused attention reserved solely for her. She didn’t know what to make of that, but she couldn’t help the flutter in chest.
"I brought the volunteer schedule for the hayrides, if you’d still like to help with that," Teddy said, her words concise as she traversed the floorboards and set the clipboard on the pine counter. She kept her chin high, trying to conceal the sharp turbulence still stirring inside her.
"Of course. I appreciate you bringing this over," Kent murmured, his gaze lingering on her face with an intent focus. He seemed to take note of the stiff posture she maintained. "I didn't anticipate seeing you until later."
Teddy looked at the clipboard between them, as she fought to regain her composure. "I had a break in my schedule, so it made sense to drop it off now."
Kent leaned slightly against the counter, his eyes searching hers with a knowing warmth. "Are you sure that's the only reason you came by?"
"Of course. I don't make unnecessary trips," Teddy said, her voice dry as she tightened her shoulders under her cotton shirt.
She refused to acknowledge the green flare of jealousy that had just ripped through her, clinging tightly to her protective pride.
"The form needed to be given to you, and now it's done. "
Kent's mouth softened into a faint smile, his gaze steady and unwavering as he observed her. He didn't push her but the understanding within his amber eyes told her that he saw straight through her armor.
The lingering scent of lavender perfume from Cecilia lingered in the space, a subtle reminder of the encounter that had just taken place.
Her heart rate remained elevated, a sudden throb pulsing beneath her ribs that she refused to acknowledge.
She tried her best to mask the sharp pinch of possessiveness that had ignited in her chest.
"You certainly have a dedicated fan club among the town's newest residents," Teddy noted, her voice conveying a dry humor as her eyes traveled to the door Cecilia had just departed through. "An invitation to grab coffee seems like a very attentive follow-up service for a joint exam."
Kent didn't laugh or join in her deflective humor.
He set the client chart onto the wooden counter, his movements slow and controlled as he pivoted to face her.
His worn cotton coat hung loosely over his shoulders, and his amber eyes were steady, holding her gaze with a calm intensity that bypassed her sarcastic shield.
The afternoon sunlight streamed through the front window, casting a gold glow across the floorboards between them.
"Is that what you think that was?" Kent asked, his tone remaining calm and grounded as he studied her face. “Something more than a routine consultation?”