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When the check came for lunch, he snagged it before she could grab it. They squabbled about it for a minute, and then he ended up paying it. After all, this was the best lunch he’d had in... Well, he couldn’t remember one he’d enjoyed more. It was definitely worth picking up the tab.

Ding.

His phone vibrated in his pocket. He immediately reached for it, thinking it might be something to do with his work. Even though he updated his partner about his situation, he’d told him that he would be available for phone or video meetings.

But when he checked the screen of his phone, he saw it was another message from his ex-wife wanting him to call her. What was it going to take for her to understand that they had nothing left to talk about? They were finished.

“Is something wrong?” Leah’s voice drew him from his frustration.

He set aside his phone and then glanced up. “Uh, no. It’s nothing important.”

Her lingering gaze said she didn’t believe him, but she didn’t push the subject. And he wasn’t about to bring up Mandi. That woman had ruined enough stuff in his life. He wasn’t going to let her ruin this wonderful day with the most amazing woman.

But when he got back to Kentucky, he wouldn’t be surprised to see Mandi at his front door. Mandi could get bold when she wanted something. The question was what did she want this time?

The server arrived at that moment to take the check from him. He welcomed the distraction. Mandi had taken up enough of his thoughts over the years. He didn’t have to think about her any longer, and he didn’t intend to, especially with such a beautiful woman sitting across from him.

When his gaze met Leah’s, she said, “You know you really didn’t have to pay for my lunch.”

“I know.” He sent her a smile. “I wanted to. And you didn’t have to give me a lift into town.”

“Oh, but I did. You no longer have a vehicle to drive.” As soon as she said the words, the smile slipped from his face. She rushed on to say, “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.”

He shook his head. “It will be all right. Once the tree is removed, it will just be some body damage. Nothing too serious.” At least that’s what he wanted to believe.

“Right.” She nodded.

Just then Kelly returned with his credit card and receipt. Once he slipped those into his wallet, he glanced across the table. “Are you ready to go?”

“I am.”

When they stepped outside, the sun greeted them with its warmth. The air was still cold, but there was no more of that awful sleet. The sidewalk and road were damp from all of the melting ice.

He glanced in Leah’s direction. “Where to next?”

“We could split up, if you want,” she said. “I have to stop at the soap company.”

He had to admit that he was intrigued. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to see this soap company.”

“Sure. Come on.” She resumed walking.

He fell in step with her. Since she’d opened up about her big decision concerning the sale of the inn, she’d grown quiet. He’d hoped it would have drawn them closer. That didn’t seem to be the case. Going forward, he’d have to tread more carefully.

So, he went for a neutral topic. “This soap place, have you been there before?”

Leah nodded. “A couple of times.”

“You must really like their soap.”

“Actually, I do. And the best part is that it’s made right here in Kringle Falls. I love supporting local businesses.”

When the silence returned, he noticed it was a comfortable one. He looked over at her and saw the smile on her face as she said hello to the passersby.

And then he realized he should also be saying hello to the passersby. Or he could continue to stare at Leah. He much preferred looking at her, but when he stumbled over the curb, he was jarred back to his senses.

“Watch your step,” Leah said as they reached the other side of the street.

“Uh, yeah. Thanks.” He couldn’t believe he’d almost fell flat on his face. That would have left an impression—not a good one.