Chapter 3 #2
I should have expected it. Why else would someone be on a dating app? It wasn’t why I was on it, but I had to assume that, with all the options for dating apps, the one that didn’t allow pictures wouldn’t be the one people would go looking for a hookup.
I let my mind wander as I cleaned the house, talking to Mr. and Mrs. Gentry as I worked. At their age, I didn’t think there was a lot of sex happening. Not that I wanted to picture it, but when she broke her hip, sex was not an option. Other things held them together. Things I’d never experienced.
Things I wasn’t sure I ever would experience.
When I was done cleaning, Mrs. Gentry asked about my dating life, and I knew it was time to go. I made my excuses for getting out of there, even though I was going to be really early to meet the bus, and told them I’d see them in two weeks.
I didn’t waste any time backing out of their driveway, ready to escape the inquisition.
I decided to take the long way home. I didn’t live far from the Gentrys, but since I had time, I drove to the edge of town for a few minutes of peace.
Leaving their neighborhood, I noticed Blossom & Grow just down the street. The flower shop was beautiful. Stopping was unnecessary, but I couldn’t resist when I saw the bright, friendly sign outside.
I couldn’t remember the last time I’d gotten flowers from anyone. Kyle certainly never bothered. Was it as far back as my wedding?
I made my way inside, weaving through the displays that held more than a few bouquets exploding with color and fun and vibrancy. I heard voices, but I mostly tuned them out until I heard the woman say something about a wedding.
Blossom & Grow was the only florist in town, and I assumed Natalie would use it for her wedding.
I moved closer to where the people were speaking to listen in on their conversation. I couldn’t see them from where I stood, but that wasn’t as important.
“Flowers say all kinds of things,” a man said from behind a display. “Roses are always a favorite, but if you want something unique or different, there are so many options.”
“Like what?” the female customer asked.
“Well, peonies are a symbol of a happy relationship. Carnations mean affection.” He laughed.
“I’m not a fan of those,” the woman said.
“That’s okay. There are so many more. Orchids are elegant and strong. Gardenias symbolize beauty and hope.”
“What’s this one?” the woman asked.
I moved closer so I could see what she was looking at. I caught sight of the man who was speaking. He wore an apron around his waist, stuffed with tools and sprinkled with dirt. The look in his eyes was one of pure adoration and love.
I found myself jealous of the woman he was speaking to.
“Sweet peas are one of my favorites.” He picked one up from the container they were in.
“They mean blissful pleasure, which is fitting for your wedding day. They’re a great addition to any bouquet, and they work very well as centerpieces.
You can even add a few to your honeymoon suite for a reminder when you get back after a long day of happiness. ”
The woman laughed softly. “I think we definitely need some of those.”
“I had a feeling you might.”
I moved closer, needing to know more. Just listening to him talk had me wanting to hear more.
“What about daisies?” she asked.
He laughed. “I would say they’re fitting for you. Did you know they symbolize true love and new beginnings?”
She sniffed. “I love that.”
“It’s perfect.”
“Thank you so much for helping with this, Landon. It’s amazing.”
Landon? Reegan’s Landon? Oh, no. I had to go. Being there was a bad idea.
I turned to go, and my oversized handbag slapped the side of a display. The tower of black containers, all full of flowers, teetered.
I stood there, watching the tower as it swayed. It seemed to be happening in slow motion. Too bad I was moving even slower.
I reached, hoping to steady the tower, just as it took its last dip and fell to the floor with a crash that drew the attention of Landon and the bride he’d been speaking to.
“Shit,” I hissed, watching as water poured from each of the black funnels. I grabbed the tower as I felt someone crouch next to me.
“Don’t worry about this. Are you okay?”
I looked next to me and found myself captivated by the light dancing in his chocolate eyes.
I guess I didn’t answer quickly enough because he touched me. His hand on my arm startled me, and I jumped, nearly knocking another tower down on top of us.
“I’m so sorry. Were you hurt? Did I scratch you?”
I shook my head, my voice finally catching up with my brain. “I’m good. Sorry. I… I am so sorry. I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going.”
“It’s not a big deal. I’m always covered in dirt, so clearly I’m not going to worry about a little water.” That light sparkled in his eyes as he smiled. Little lines appeared next to his eyes, like he was someone who enjoyed laughing and did it freely.
I breathed a laugh, appreciating the fact that he was not yelling at me for making a mess. “Thank you. I’ll just—” I reached for the tower again.
“Don’t worry about it. I can take care of it in a few minutes.”
“I didn’t mean to interrupt your meeting.”
“Things happen. As long as you’re okay?”
“Yeah. Yes. I’m good. I’m fine.” I stood, nearly hitting another tower. “I’m going to go before I ruin your entire store. I’m so sorry.”
“No big deal. I promise.”
“Yep. Okay. Thanks. Bye!” I clutched my bag to my side and hurried toward the door, getting as far from Landon and his too-tempting eyes as possible.
Too bad his eyes weren’t the only tempting part of him.