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That's where my attention gets stuck.

Maddy catches me looking as she walks toward me.

"Hi."

It takes me a second. "Hi."

She stops in front of me.

"You've been waiting long?"

"No."

Her mouth curves.

"Good."

I open the restaurant door for her.

"You look beautiful."

"Thank you."

She pauses as she passes me, close enough that I catch the faint scent of her perfume.

"You look nice too."

I glance down at my black button-down.

"You've seen me in a shirt before."

"I’m allowed to appreciate it more than once."

I follow her inside.

"Try to contain yourself, Hart."

"I make no promises."

I smile before I can stop myself.

Willow & Vine is one of four restaurants we supply regularly, about twenty minutes outside Oakridge, surrounded by apple orchards and farmland. Small place. Open kitchen. Local menu that changes with whatever's coming out of the ground that week.

The owner, Cal, spots us before we reach the hostess stand.

"Martinez."

"Cal."

He shakes my hand, then looks at Maddy.

"And you must be Madison Hart."

"I am," she says, smiling as she glances at me.

I shrug.

"I may have mentioned you."