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My Grand Marnier sorbet comes out, and I widen my eyes. “Want a taste?” Dipping a spoon in the velvety dessert, I groan as I eat it.

Amusement relaxes his features. “I can’t imagine any man not treating you like a queen.”

His words make my stomach feel squirmy. “He treated me the way I let him treat me.”

It’s what Mrs. Irene told me, Men will rise to whatever level you demand. I’m beginning to think she’s right.

“If he doesn’t work out, you know where to find me.”

The waiter brings us our check and I do my best to split it. Lincoln acts like I’ve sprouted an additional head. When it’s all settled, he escorts me out to my waiting Lyft.

Stopping before I enter, I step forward into his hug and give him a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, Link.”

“For dinner? You’re very welcome.”

“For showing me what I’m worth.”

His warm arm clasps my elbow. “I’ll be here.”

William is pouty Saturday afternoon as I load my suitcase into my waiting Prius. “Is six months long enough? Are you sure you’re not rushing back too soon?”

“I don’t know.” I hug him again. “I’m going back to my own place, my own office… I’m different now… And I miss my family.”

He cups my cheeks. “I’m so proud of you. You came here and worked your ass off. You really made a name for yourself.”

My eyes heat, and I hug him one last time. “I’m going to miss you so much.” Stepping back, I get into my waiting car. “But you said you’re coming to visit me soon. Right? To help with my interiors?”

He waves, nodding. “Tell me when that Little Mermaid show is over. I’ll come after that.”

“You’ll come for Christmas.”

His lips purse, and I turn my car toward the Interstate for the two hour drive back to Harristown. It’s really a pretty easy drive due east, and Ma’s waiting for me when I pull up in front of my new apartment. She’s been meeting me every time I come into town to paint, decorate, clean.

I hop out smiling. I love having my own place so much. “Hey again!” I give her a long hug. “Ahh… I’m so glad to be here for good.”

Unlocking the door, we enter arm in arm.

“I don’t know why you can’t live at home. You’re not married.” She stops in the middle of my living room holding a potted plant.

“Ma! We’ve talked about this.” I’m unpacking my suitcase. “I’m not a child anymore. I need my own space.”

“You have your own space at the house. Now I’m all alone. What if I have a heart attack and die, and no one knows and the neighbor’s dog eats me?”

“Jesus!”

“Don’t take the Lord’s name in vain, Melinda.” Her tone is weepy.

“Then stop being so freakin morbid.” I cross living room to kiss her cheek, give her a hug. “I’ll be over all the time. I’ll have dinner… and did you notice this place has no washer or dryer? I’ll do laundry…”

A tap on the door draws our attention. The front door slowly opens.

“Who’s there?” Ma goes to investigate and breaks into happy cries. “Sawyer! I didn’t know you were back in town. It’s so good to see you. You look so good!”

My heart stops in my chest. It legit stops. My knees tremble, and I’m having difficulty calming my breath.

Sawyer stands in the entrance of my new apartment in dark jeans and a black shirt with a Sherpa-lined denim jacket on top. He looks fresh off the farm gorgeous. His hazel-green eyes focus on mine, and the muscle in his square jaw moves. His hair is perfect.

“Don’t you agree Mindy doesn’t need this place?” Ma huffs across the room to where I’m trying to get my heart started again.