He says something like, “Then you’re definitely gonna love it out here then.”
I jerk open the door so that the bell jingles extra loudly.
Zane glances my way, but I don’t pause to say anything. He’s flirting with a tourist, and I’m upset. Outside, I turn the corner down the sidewalk toward Darlene’s, but I’m stopped abruptly when I slam into a man’s chest.
“Whoa, are you okay?” the man asks as he grabs my arms and holds me steady.
I clutch my paper bag to my chest, hoping the tampons didn’t spill out. Everything seems to be tucked in safely.
“Sorry about that. I was not paying attention,” I mutter.
Finally, the man’s eyes meet mine. He’s young, probably around Zane’s or Max’s age, but notyoung, young. He’s really handsome, and hopefully, he belongs to the woman in the store so that he can go pull her away from Zane.
“Are you okay?” he asks again. “I’m sorry about that.” He releases my arms and steps back.
“I’m fine,” I reply.
“I was looking the other way and simply not paying attention,” he says.
“That makes two of us, and sorry I crashed into you. Hope you have a good vacation.”
I move to go around him, but his voice stops me.
“Why do you think I’m on vacation, and that I don’t live here? Just curious.”
I smile at him. “Because I live here, and I recognize everyone’s faces.”
“That’s fair enough.” He chuckles. “I actually am moving out here.”
“Really?” I ask.
“Yeah, I am taking over Dr. Brown’s practice for him. Do you know him?” he asks.
“Yes! Everyone knows Dr. Brown. Well, in that case, welcome to town.” I hold out my hand, shifting the bag into one arm, so I can shake his. “I’m Bliss Jefferson.” My voice catches as I realize I am not Bliss Jefferson. I’m Bliss Madden now.
But I don’t have a chance to correct my mistake because the man is busy introducing himself.
“I’m Greyson Donovan, but all my friends just call me Grey.”
“Not Dr. Donovan?” I ask with a laugh.
“No, I’m not a real big fan of formalities. I prefer just Grey.”
“All right, nice to meet you, Grey. I run some sheep here, and my dad runs cattle, so you’ll probably get to know us. I hope you’re able to settle in here. I will be calling you soon.”
Just then, someone clears his throat, and I realize Zane’s standing on the sidewalk behind me. I’m still holding the man’s hand and promising to call him soon. Not exactly great, but I don’t really care because Zane was in there, flirting with that other woman. I’m out here, making business deals with the new veterinarian in town.
“You’ll have to meet my mom. She’ll invite you over and cook dinner for you, and she’ll let you know everything about everybody in town.”
Grey chuckles. “That sounds nice.” He passes me a business card from his back pocket. “That way, you guys can get in touch.” He smiles at me and turns to give Zane a nod and then brushes past him.
“Who was that?” Zane demands.
“That was Grey,” I reply. “Who were you talking to in the store?”
He frowns at me. “Her name was Ella.”
“Of course it was,” I mutter and turn around and walk toward the car.
