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So what did he do? Talk to Luke about it? Talk to Willow? Maybe Laura…?

He quickly dismissed the thought as soon as it popped into his mind. Although she occupied his thoughts every waking moment of his day and even while he was sleeping, he should stay away from her.

“…it will be with someone who wants to be with me, always.”Laura’s words echoed in his mind. And that was the problem. He couldn’t give her want she wanted.

It had only been two weeks. He should give it time.

*

“So, do youhave big plans for your week off, or are you going to spend it reading?” Arlene asked as she and Laura settled in front of the fire with their tea.

Laura laughed. “That does sound wonderful, but I do have things I want to do around the house. That wall, for instance,” she said, pointing toward the one wall opposite them, “needs a different color, I think. And then maybe add one or two kitchen cabinets. I was wondering if you can recommend someone?”

“Ooh,” Arlene said, taking out her phone. “I do know of someone you can ask. Tanner Olsen. Let me phone him immediately…”

“No, really, that’s…” Laura tried, but Arlene was already talking on the phone.

Within minutes, she put her phone down with a smile. “He’s on his way. Get a quote, see if you like him, but I know his mother. They’re good people. So, Laura,” she said, putting her cup down. “You and Hayden? Is there something between the two of you?”

“Wow.” Laura smiled, shaking her head. “You really get to the point, don’t you?”

“Life is so very short, my dear. If you have something to say, say it. I’d like to think we’ve become friends. You do like him, don’t you?”

“Yes, I like him. I like your whole family. I’m looking forward to tomorrow night. I haven’t seen Ellie since last month. Have you finished readingPride and Prejudicefor the discussion?”

Arlene sighed. “Okay. You don’t want to talk about it. I get it. It just breaks my heart when I see two people who should be together, but who are so scared to take a chance, they walk away.”

“Hayden is still mourning his wife and brother. Besides, he’s made it clear he’s not looking for anything permanent.”

“Really?”

“His words. Now aboutPride and Prejudice…”

Fortunately, this time, Arlene let her change the topic of conversation. She’d hoped—she’d really, really hoped—the hug Hayden had given her meant something, but he had been worried about Luke, and she’d offered a shoulder. That was it.

This was a clear sign that she should stop dreaming about the cowboy with the sad eyes. He’d have to come to grips with his demons all by himself. She couldn’t do it for him.

Minutes later, there was a knock on the front door.

“That’s probably Tanner,” Arlene said, as she put down her cup. “I’ll leave you two together.” Her eye twinkled. “Have I mentioned that he’s very attractive?”

Laughing, Laura moved toward the front door. “I thought Janice was the matchmaker in town.”

“Just saying,” Arlene chuckled, as Laura opened the door.

The guy standing on her porch was indeed attractive. Tall, well-built, blonde hair, brown eyes, wide shoulders, and a lopsided grin—he was the quintessential handsome guy. But there were no crackling vibes and not even one butterfly in her tummy stirred.

Molly ran closer, barking furiously.

“Molly!” Laura cried and quickly picked up the dog. “Sorry about that.”

Grinning, he cautiously put out a hand to Molly, but she growled and showed her teeth.

Arlene introduced them. “Laura, Tanner. Tanner, Laura. And this fierce protector is Molly. Thanks for the tea, my dear. Oh, and Tanner—Laura is new to town. I don’t think she’s been to Rocco’s Italian Restaurant yet.”

“Arlene!” Laura cried out, but Arlene was already briskly walking away.

Tanner grinned. “Great idea.”