Nicole pointed at her empty plate. “I say yes sometimes. Look, I even got the cheese and you know how hard I try to avoid anything processed.”
Devin laughed, “I guess I’ll have to take your word for it. That plate isemp-ty.”
Their laughter was interrupted by a deep voice Nicole recognized in an instant.
“Laughter and empty plates! As the owner of this fine establishment, nothing does my heart as good as seeing this.” He leaned in conspiratorially, “And a five-star review from said patrons is always greatly appreciated.”
“We’ll see what we can do, Mister…?” Devin asked.
“Sean Harper,” he said, taking off his gloves and putting out his hand toward Devin. “Madam Mayor, you need no introduction. Thank you so much for joining us for breakfast today.”
Devin gave Sean a hearty handshake. “Wonderful to meet you, Sean. The food was fantastic!”
“You are too kind," He put a hand to his heart.
Nicole guffawed. “Trust me, Devin isn’t one for flattery. If she says your food is fantastic, it’s fantastic.”
Sean pivoted to Nicole, his hand out, “We haven’t met properly. I’m Sean, and you are?”
Nicole placed her hand in his palm. She noticed the calluses that spoke to years in the kitchen and gardening. “I’m Nicole Garrett. We’re practically neighbors,” she uncharacteristically gushed.
He held her hand for a moment. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Nicole.” A shiver went through her as he said her name. She let go of his hand and her cheeks reddened.
Devin interjected, “She lives one block over, around the corner from the elementary school where she works. I don’t even think she owns a car.”
“I do!”
“Well, I stand corrected.” Devin smiled.
Nicole noticed Devin looking at Sean’s hand. She knew that meant her best friend had noticed Sean didn’t have any rings on. Devin must be assuming he was single and was likely planning Nicole and Sean’s wedding in her mind. However, Nicole knew the lack of a ring could mean many things besides being single.Not that she was looking to date him. “We better not take up too much of your time. Thanks again for making me that second chance omelet.”
Sean smiled broadly, “Speaking of chances, Nicole, would you be free to get a cup of coffee with me on Monday?”
Devin clapped her hands together, “Yes! That’s a great idea!”
Nicole gave her a look; Devin folded her hands together. “You love a good latte, Nicole.”
Nicole gave Devin the evil eye and turned to Sean, “That’s very kind of you, but I can’t make it.”
Sean’s face fell, and then he perked up and smiled, “Right, you work at Ida B. Wells Elementary. Okay, what about tea? After work? My treat, of course.”
“Um,” Nicole hesitated, “I-I’m sorry I can’t.”
Devin frowned but didn’t say anything.
Sean chuckled nervously, “Fair enough. If you change your mind…Well in any case, thank you so much again for coming in Mayor Belmont.” He put his hand over his heart and bowed slightly. “Please come back and bring the family.”
Devin laughed, “I’ll come back with Ben, but my twins? No, thank you. That’s what babysitters are for!”
“Understood,” Sean pivoted back to Nicole.
“Thanks again,” she said, quickly getting up. “It was delicious.”
“You’re welcome,” Sean said with a professional note in his voice and a little disappointment in his eyes. “I hope we’ll run into each other again, neighbor.”
Nicole smiled wanly, “It’s a pretty small town.” And she walked toward the door.
Chapter Two
