It was a quick walk just down the street and over to the beach. They climbed the stairs and he let them inside. Late afternoon sunlight streamed in through the windows. He set his keys on the table. “I know what you’re thinking. This isn’t my style with the floral couch and everything. But I just haven’t been able to make myself change anything.”
“I don’t blame you. And I think it’s wonderful. Homey.”
“The bookcase is over there.” He pointed to the far wall.
She went over and looked at shelf after shelf of books. “She was quite a reader, I guess.”
“She was. But take as many as you want. My books are just on that one lower shelf.”
She slowly perused the titles and chose about a dozen books. Some romances. A mystery or two. A few classics like Tom Sawyer and Anne of Green Gables. She turned to find Dale watching her.
He smiled guiltily. “Oh, I’m sorry. I just enjoyed watching your face as you chose the books. I take it you’re a reader, too?”
“I am. But my favorite books are back in storage in Philadelphia. Though, I’m thinking of getting my own place now, so I’m hoping to get my things sent here.”
“So you’re going to stay?” His eyes lit up.
“For the foreseeable future, at least. I’m going to look for a small place. Close enough to walk to work at Coastal Coffee.”
“I… I have an idea.” He paused and chewed his lower lip. “I mean… the small guest cottage behind Ginger’s house is empty. I lived in it before moving in here. It’s small. Just one bedroom, bath, and a kitchen. Do you want to see it?”
Her heart leapt at the suggestion. “Yes, I’d love to.”
She followed him outside and across a small courtyard to the guesthouse. They climbed the front steps and went inside. “Oh, this is wonderful.” Warm light flooded the main room, which was a combination family room, kitchen, and breakfast nook.
“The bedroom is back that way.”
She went down the hall and peeked into the bedroom. It was also light and had a nice-sized attached bathroom. She turned around to face him. “This is perfect. How much is the rent?” She hoped she could afford it. Itwasright here near the beach.
He laughed. “I have no idea. It just sits here empty now. Enough to cover the utilities would be fine.”
“No, that’s not enough. And it’s right here near the beach. You could get good rent money for it.”
“But I’m picky about who lives so close.” He winked and a strange warmth settled over her cheeks, which she tried to ignore.
“But I need to pay rent. I need to… make it on my own.”
She was pleased to see understanding in his eyes, and they agreed on a number at her insistence.
“I was going to donate most of the furniture in here, but you’re free to use what you’d like,” he said.
“That would be great until I can get my things sent here.”
“You can decorate it how you like. We can paint the rooms if you want.”
“You’re being an awfully nice landlord,” she teased, trying to ignore his twinkling eyes. Happiness bubbled through her at her good fortune today.
“When would you like to move in?”
She grinned. “Is tomorrow too soon?”
“Not at all.” He handed her the key.
Excitement sent her pulse racing, and her mind spun with to-do lists. Her own place. And it was so cozy and wonderful and near work.
And near Dale.
But she’d have to make sure she didn’t bother him. She’d be the best tenant ever.
