“It’s something, that’s for sure.”
I finally took a sip of my coffee. It was strong and burnt.
“I see what you mean now.” But I still went in for more.
“How can you even tolerate it?”
“I burned off my taste buds a long time ago.”
Theo shook his head. “It feels like you’re cheating on me.”
“Aw, babe.” I reached over and grabbed his hand. I only hesitated for a half second, which was a win for me. “I still love your coffee the most.”
He grumbled and went back for his own water. Tammy brought our food out only moments later, pausing when she saw our hands.
But then she shook her head and handed us our plates.
Theo still watched her with a confused expression.
“I don’t get it,” he said. “They get in everyone’s business.”
“I bet you let them down enough that they’re sure you won’t date.”
He considered it and sat back as if waiting for me to take the first bite. I did, and tried not to moan like a character in a romance novel. It was a close call because the buttermilk pancakes were amazing.
“It’s even better when fresh,” I said the second I tasted it. “I might have a new weekday tradition.”
“Now you’re really cheating on me.”
“I’m still gonna get coffee from you!” I laughed. “Jeez, no one warned me you were this jealous.”
“Only for you.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.”
I got halfway through my food when I had to go to the bathroom. It was tempting to try to wait, but I knew I’d had way too much coffee for that. Luckily, it was one stall and I had total privacy.
But Tammy nearly ran into me when I walked out. She didn’t touch me, thankfully. I moved away just fast enough. It still got my heart racing.
“Oh, sorry.” She gave me a smile. “I’ve been told I can run people over. You okay?”
“I’m fine.Thank you.”
She glanced at me and in the direction where Theo was sitting. “You know, kid, I feel like I should warn you.”
I tensed. “Warn me?”
“About Theo.” A frown pulled at my lips before she even continued. “You’re barking up the wrong tree with him.”
I expected a warning about his age. Or worse, maybe Tammy actually knowing something about his past. But this was not that.
“Barking up the wrong tree?”
“You’re a beautiful woman. And I’ve heard you’re very sweet. But that man is not dating anyone.”
I could only blink. “U-um?—”
“And that’s his choice. But it’s been his choice since he moved here. He’s just not interested in anyone. Even if he brought you here, he’s just being nice.”
