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“I had to stop by a friend’s house for a conversation.”

“Oh.”

He realized how that could’ve been interpreted, so he offered clarity.

“Mayor Luke Steele is one of my best friends, as you know. He’s running to hold on to his seat against Lennox Jenkins.”

Carla could’ve groaned. Lennox was the last person she wanted to talk about right now.

“Yes, I saw the broadcast.”

The phone fell quiet.

“He’s going to run a great campaign. I wanted to assure him that he was the best option for the city and also provide him an opportunity to prove it.”

“How so?”

“He’s going to be helping me with the redesign of the Boys & Girls Club.”

“I wanted to ask you a question about that. I hope I’m not getting into your business, but some of my students could use real-life experience. To show them that they all matter, and that each one can help the other, despite their differences. To put it plainly, I think the kids would benefit from an anti-bullying campaign. But I need to get them interested in something they have to help each other build or create for them to see their similarities.”

His heart patteredat her thoughtfulness. “That’s a great idea.”

“You think so?”

“Absolutely.”

“So, do you think it’s something you could help me with, or is it too much of a job? I can’t pay you for your time, unfortunately, but I can make it a field trip or learning retreat that the parents will have to fund.”

“That’s not necessary. They need this. All students, especially high school students, would benefit from a program like this. I wonder about your future students, however. We could put together an annual event that high school graduates would participate in. A real-world practice. Their parents would have to sign an agreement so they could work during the process.”

“I would love that.”

“What do you think about having your future students participate in the Rooftop Connection Initiative?”

“That is perfect!” Carla lit up on the other end of the phone. “My wheels were turning before. Now they’re spinning.”

He chuckled. “I love it when you’re excited. Those beautiful brown eyes glow, and your lashes flutter. Have I told you today how easy you are to adore?”

Carla’s smile stretched so far across her face that her cheeks burned. “Yes. And I don’t think anyone’s ever adored me.”

That’s because you were meant to be mine.

The thought crossed his mind in a blink, and he let that sit without expanding on it.

“You should see what I see when I hear you. When I look at you.”

“What do you hear and see?”

“A woman who takes pleasure in pleasing those around her. Someone who loves to assist. Who’s…the life of the party. You keep others’ spirits lifted, and I bet you’re the girlfriend who gives solid and necessary advice while not being harsh.”

Warmth swept down her skin.

“Am I right?”

“So far. I want to know how you know that?”

“Let me tell you what I also know, Carla.” He put the code in his gate and entered the driveway of his contemporary home. “That big heart of yours attracts everyone, including people who mean you no good.”