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“And I could really use your help with the interior design for my new office.”

Miss Jessica’s nephew Jeff Priddy helped me find a small space in one of the older buildings across town. It used to be a bar, and the city council was going to tear it down, but Ma talked to Jeff, and it’s been converted to an office complex. I think she was afraid I’d stay in Dallas.

For the last two weeks, I’ve been going home to clean it out and paint, buy a desk and a chair, a printer and a desktop computer. With the money I’ve made from Rich’s campaign (and Link’s and Charlie’s), I’ve got a healthy nest egg for hanging out my shingle.

“I will come back to be sure your office is a fierce as you are, but I will not sing ‘Under the Sea.’”

“It’s a deal.” I laugh and kiss his cheek before heading down to my waiting car.

Lincoln and I are meeting for dinner at The Mansion on Turtle Creek. It’s a gorgeous place with carved wood paneling and stone fireplaces. Tables are arranged to be cozy and romantic in many of the oversized dining rooms.

He greets me at the door, and he really is too handsome to be stuck on me. “You look amazing.” He gives me a hug and a chaste kiss on the cheek.

“This old thing?” I tease, taking his arm and following the host to a small table for two near an enormous fireplace.

The man holds our chairs as we sit and presents us with large menus. “I think I could fit in that thing,” I whisper, pointing towards the hearth.

Lincoln smiles warmly. “No Hansel and Gretel tonight, thank you.”

He orders us each vodka martinis, and we peruse the “New American” cuisine, which includes everything from black truffle and mushroom risotto to lobster to smoked pork chop. A candle in the center of the table casts a golden light over both of us.

“I can’t wait to try this Grand Marnier sorbet.” My eyes are wide with excitement. “It all looks so good…”

Ultimately, we decide on the risotto for me and the juniper rubbed venison loin for him. We share a bottle of Pinot Noir with dinner, and I think it’s probably the nicest meal I’ve ever had.

Leaning back with my glass of wine, I feel warm and satisfied. I feel like I’ve done what I set out to do six months ago when I left home with a broken heart.

“What are you thinking about right now?” I glance up to see Link’s blue eyes studying me intently.

“I came to Dallas with my tail between my legs. I’m going home a success.”

“Why was your tail between your legs?” He leans forward, resting his forearms on the white tablecloth.

“Just… you know. I was in a rut. I had my degree, but I wasn’t using it.” I’m not planning to get into my personal life with him.

“You made your friend’s website and your own… and your mom’s.”

“Does that really count?” I squint an eye at him, smiling.

He grins and looks down. “They worked for me.”

“You’ve been very generous helping me get started. I want you to know how much I appreciate the referrals.”

“I was glad to do it.” He swirls the wine in his glass. “Are you returning to Harristown for good?”

Tilting my head to the side, I consider this. “I think so.”

“Why?”

That makes me laugh. “It’s my home, and I miss my mom, my family, friends…”

“Someone in particular?”

Blinking up, our eyes meet again. “I don’t think so. Not anymore at least.”

“He’s a fool.” It’s a bit of a growl as he sits back.

“He is not.” I’m defensive at first. Then I make myself stop. “But he is stubborn as a mule.”