“Just the fried chicken salad today.”
“Coming right up.” She was already moving.
The bell above the door jingled, and Blair glanced over out of habit, then felt her stomach drop. Hud. He caught sight of her at the same moment, and she watched a brief hesitation cross his face before he crossed the diner and settled onto the stool beside her.
“Mind if I sit here?”
“Looks like you already did.”
He turned away and she was fairly certain it was to hide a grin. When he turned back his expression had settled into something more earnest.
“I’ve been waiting for you to call.”
“Phone works both ways, Anderson.”
“It does. But I left that one in your hands.”
Blair shrugged. “I’m still thinking about it.”
“Blair.” His voice was quiet and direct. “Let’s start over. I like you. I’d like to see you again and I promise I won’t make the same mistake twice.”
She held his gaze for a moment, then gave a small nod. “Alright.”
The grin that spread across his face was almost unfair. “How about coming out to my place Saturday? We could go riding.”
“I’d like that. It’s been a while though. I’ll need a gentle horse.”
“I’ve got two that’ll suit you just fine.”
“Then send me the address and a time. I’ll be there.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
She studied him for a moment. “You look tired.”
“Just got back from Whitefish.”
Connie reappeared, set Blair’s salad on the counter, shot Hud a knowing wink, took his order and spun back into the lunch rush without breaking stride.
Blair did her best to focus on her salad. Though she had to wonder what it was about the Kevlar vest, the holster, the badge that got her so flustered. Maybe it was the danger that came with the job. Or maybe, if she was being honest with herself, it was just the man.
When she finished she waved Connie over for the check.
“I’ve got it,” Hud said before she could reach for her purse.
She didn’t argue. She stood, looked at him over her shoulder, smiled and walked out.
The afternoon sun was warm on her face as she crossed to her car.
****
Hud watched her pass the window and grinned before he could stop it. It was more than the apology. It was the ease of it, the way she’d let him off the hook without making him work for it. A day on horseback with Blair. He could think of worse ways to spend a Saturday.
“Well.” Connie appeared at his elbow, refilling his coffee. “Didn’t see that coming.”
“Mind your business, Connie.” He grinned.
She laughed and moved down the counter.
