Chapter 7

SEVEN

JASPER

The yawn escaped unbidden, causing Ian to laugh at me on the other end of the line. "Seriously, it's okay if you need to get yourself to bed. I know you're exhausted, and it's not my riveting conversation putting you to sleep."

I snorted a laugh. "Well, you have been going on about the hottie doc for a while. But since you're living out my Grey's Anatomy fantasy , I'll let you keep at it."

"Right. Tell that to the vomit I had to scrub off my shoe this afternoon, or to the number of catheter bags I've had to change today." This time Ian yawned over the line. "Shit, you're contagious."

"But adorable."

"Whatever you need to tell yourself." He paused. "Are you sure I can't convince you to head my way this weekend? I have Saturday night off, and it's not the same hitting the club without you."

Guilt had me wincing. It really had been a while since I'd visited him. And while he sounded his usual chipper self, I knew work was stressing him out and his living arrangement with his roommate was tricky, making him worryingly not okay.

I exhaled noisily.

"Yes," he said in triumph. "I knew I could sweet talk you."

"I'm rolling my eyes at you, you know."

He laughed. "Yeah, I know. But you love me."

With a grin on my face, I said, "I suppose. I deserve an award or a medal or something for putting up with you."

"Maybe a certificate. We haven't been friends that long. Maybe we'll build up to the good stuff," he said, amusement lifting his words, making me relax that it sounded genuine.

"I'll make it this weekend. I'll leave midmorning, give me a chance to get on top of some work." I'd also have to make sure I was human the next day, so I could leave fairly early to avoid racing to get my planning done for next week.

"Ah… the joys of responsibility and following your pa ssion. How's that all working out for you? 'Cause, you know, this grownup job stuff is overrated."

I chuckled at that. "The hours are an eye-opener, that's for sure, but I'm still smiling."

"I just bet you are."

"Are you wriggling your brows?"

"Maybe."

"Well, don't. It's disturbing."

"I'll take a video of it, put it on loop, and send it your way. That way, you can cuddle up to the live-action me whenever you want." I could just picture his shit-eating grin and couldn't help but laugh.

"How about let's not do that."

"So back to you smili—"

"Oh, look. Is that the time? I have to go."

"Hey!"

I blew a noisy kiss over the line. "I'll text you on Saturday when I'm leaving. Be good, handsome." I laughed, making sure he could hear me before I ended the call.

A second later, he sent me a text.

Ian: Asshole

Five seconds passed by, and I opened up a three-second boomerang of his damn brows.

Me: Smooth moves .

I left my phone on my bed and left my room, hearing Mom downstairs. The past week she'd been more present, more herself. Every time she shot me a smile that reached her eyes, a wave of relief flooded me. It had been a year since Dad passed. While I still missed him, every day, in fact, I'd noticed a switch in her, mainly since my new job.

Dad would have been so proud of me. I knew that with absolute certainty. And each time I thought that, my smile came a little easier, became a little brighter when I thought of him. I thought the same was true of Mom.

When I'd told her about my position, she'd cried. Happy tears had rolled down her cheeks as she'd wrapped me up in her arms, whispering her love and support. It was the first time she'd spoken of Dad without crying too.

While my concern for her was ever-present, the heavy weight that pressed down on my shoulders since receiving the phone call from Mom's next-door neighbor letting me know Dad's heart had given out had shifted. I felt lighter and freer, and I wished with everything in me that Mom would reach the same place I was soon.

"What are you doing?" I asked her when I entered the kitchen. She was sitting at the kitchen table at her laptop .

A smile lifted her lips when she glanced my way. "I've just made cocoa. You want one?"

My brows shot high. "Cocoa?" The last time she'd made me cocoa was when I was seventeen and my first boyfriend had broken my heart.

Her tinkling laugh filled the room. My heart expanded at the sound. "Yes, cocoa. Don't sound so surprised, geez." She stuck her tongue out at me and then laughed. No doubt at the perplexed look on my face. "You want one or not?"

I nodded, saying, "Yes, please," as I made my way over and sat while she stood and headed to make me a drink.

She made her way around the kitchen. Something was different, and I couldn't quite put my finger on what. Since taking on my new job, I'd barely spent more than five minutes with Mom besides sharing the occasional meal. The knowledge didn't sit well. But I looked at her again, tilting my head, my eyes boring into her back.

"What?" she finally asked with a quick glance over her shoulder at me. Amusement lit her eyes.

"What's going on?"

"What do you mean?" Her words were evasive, deliberately so going by the twitch of her lips as she headed toward me carrying a steaming mug.

I was never great at giving the stink eye, but I tried anyway. "Your hair…" My gaze roamed her face and her hair. "…it's highlighted." A smile immediately slipped free. "It looks really nice."

As she sat and handed me my drink, she used her free hand to touch the strands. "You don't think it's too much?"

My head shake was immediate. "Not at all. It looks really great. It suits you."

Her shoulders relaxed a little at my words. "Thank you."

"Is there a reason for the fabulous hair or just because?" I asked.

She sat a little taller in her seat before her words rushed out. "I have a job interview tomorrow."

I would not cry, but holy hell, this was significant. "You have?" I managed to ask, my voice surprisingly steady. "That's incredible."

Bright-eyed, she looked back at me, nodding. "I think so. It's for a part-time receptionist position at the veterinary clinic."

My brain started working a mile a minute. I knew Davis well. Hell, I was attending his wedding soon. And I knew Scott, the owner—

Mom's hand on my forearm dragged my attention back to her. "Love, whatever you're thinking, no." Her gaze was soft. "I'm aware you know people who work there, but I can get this position on my own."

I pursed my lips and blew out a breath. "I know you can. I promise I won't reach out to anyone. You'll be amazing, and you'll nail the interview."

Withdrawing her hand, she picked up her mug and took a sip. "Thank you. It's at nine."

"Text me and let me know how it goes. I'll be in class but will be able to check between lessons." This job would be so good for her. It would help to take some of the financial strain away from her for a start. While the house was paid for, I was more than aware the life insurance money wouldn't last forever, and beyond the measly amount she'd accept from me for board, money was tight. But more than that, she needed to reinsert herself into society.

"Will do."

I then remembered tomorrow was Thursday. I winced, saying, "I have plans tomorrow night so won't be home till late, but I can cancel so we can celebr—"

"Absolutely not," she said, voice firm as she cut me off. "You deserve to have fun. You're working so hard, so take every chance you have to find happiness and rainbows." Her grin was wide as she spoke, making me laugh.

"Sure thing, Mom. I'm not sure I'll be rainbow hunting tomorrow"—an image of Austin's warm eyes rushed into my mind—"but you never know."

We chatted for a short time before she headed to bed, leaving me to get to work and think about my busy day tomorrow as well as my date with Austin.

This past week had raced by. While it was only my second week in the classroom, I'd found my rhythm, knew most of the students' names in my classes, and was suitably exhausted.

Then there was Austin.

As agreed, we kept low-key at school. He'd only sought me out once before school on Monday morning with a fresh doughnut that apparently needed to be eaten. But I also found a coffee on my desk Tuesday morning, and a small notepad in my pigeonhole stating To do or not to do: that is the question. Every single gift had left me all but swooning as I started my day. And honestly, it was a feeling I could get used to. The man's wooing capabilities were on-point.

It was flattering and heady, and I may have left a few xx's when I'd sent him a text of thanks. I seriously couldn't wait till our date.

All too aware we needed to take things relatively slow due to a whole cacophony of reasons, it didn't mean I wouldn't be chasing more kisses with the man.

After finishing up for the night, I pulled out my phone, hesitating the barest of moments before I sent out a text.

Me: Have you had a good night?

I didn't have to wait long before the three leaping dots appeared, my heart following the movement.

Austin: I did. I even managed to get some reading in… for pleasure.

I laughed at that. When we'd headed out for a drive last weekend, we'd discussed so many things. One included our love for books and our frustration that we rarely found the time to switch off and stop enough to read for pleasure.

Me: Impressive. Next you'll be telling me you exercised for fun. :P

Austin: I cannot imagine that happening anytime soon.

Me: LOL. Read anything good?

Austin: Is it bad I can't remember the name? LOL. This is the problem with e-readers. I can never remember what I'm reading, but yes, it's great so far. You?

Me: No reading. Caught up with Ian though.

I considered telling him my excitement about Mom but held back. We'd shared enough that he knew about my dad's passing, but I hadn't shared the severity of Mom's struggles.

There was a long pause before his next message arrived.

Austin: That's great. I know you've been worried about him. I hope everything is okay.

I smiled as I messaged back.

Me: Thanks. He's okay.

When his next text arrived, my eyes shot open.

Austin: Good friends, good books, and a sleepy conscience. This is the ideal life.

This guy….

Me: Did you just quote Mark Twain?

I was tempted to add a handful of question marks for good measure, but I held back, the English teacher in me wincing at the thought. It was enough that I used LOL.

But seriously, a man quoting authors or literature directly at me, and I couldn't be certain how long my heart would remain my own.

Austin: Quite possibly. See you tomorrow. I can't wait.

Me: Me neither. Rest easy.

I placed my phone on my bedside table and sprawled back on my bed, eager for tomorrow to arrive.

The coast was clear, so I slipped into the staff shower room to wash the day off me. It had been a full-on day trying to get kids to not roll their eyes back in their heads so far that I'd have to call 911 when I tried to convince them that Shakespeare had been a radical genius. And trying to get one of my classes to understand the intricacies of an extended metaphor could quite possibly have driven me to drink.

But I'd survived another day. More than that, I'd enjoyed it, felt the thrill of the buzz when Bobby was able to explain the difference between a possessive apostrophe and one used for omission. That small light that seemed to flicker and click into place made the countless explanations and examples worth it.

After agreeing on our date, it took till the next day for me to realize in truth: there wouldn't be enough time to get home, clean up, and return in time to pick Austin up. This had led me to scope out the staff facilities, one of which was a shower room.

It didn't take long to hose myself down and get me smelling fresh. Dressed in my favorite black Levi's, a brand my dad had totally got me appreciating, and a pale blue button-down, I headed to my car, noting I wasn't the last to leave, so there was no need to worry about security.

Music played quietly in my car, helping to ease the nerves finding their way into my system. I figured nerves were a good thing. It meant I cared enough about Austin to try my hardest to ensure he had a good night. After walking Penny, we'd head to a family-owned pizza place in the next town over.

Aware that this small town had a rumor mill that spread quicker than lies on Twitter, I'd been a little anxious about staying too local. It would mean a forty-minute drive to the restaurant, but I hoped we'd have more semblance of privacy by doing so.

As I pulled up outside of Austin's, I immediately grinned at seeing both Penny and the man himself waiting on the porch. "Hey," I greeted as I stepped out.

His gaze roamed my body as he headed down the steps toward me, and I made my way closer to him. With no idea of the right way to greet him, relief settled through me when he leaned in and planted a small kiss on my mouth. Despite the briefness, I still closed my eyes, savoring the touch. A content sigh slipped past my lips before he pulled away.

"You look really good," he said as he angled back a little, eyes landing on my bright red rain boots. He grinned. "Expecting rain?"

I grinned back and gave a small shrug. "It rained yesterday, and I didn't want to wreck my shoes or jeans on our walk. "

"Red's definitely your color." He reached for my hand, and we turned, both of us focusing on Penny, who was clearly struggling to contain herself on the porch. With her tail wagging dangerously fast, I was concerned she was going to do herself damage. "Come on then, Penny. You've been super patient," Austin said.

She bolted over immediately, pushing herself through my legs and pulling a snort from me. "You're eager for a walk, huh?" I said, bending to give her some fuss. She wriggled manically. "Better not keep you waiting then." I straightened, my eyes landing on Jasper, whose soft gaze was directed my way.

"I thought we'd take a walk around my property instead, if that's okay? We'll do a couple of laps, throw her a ball."

"That sounds good to me." It would mean less time wasted in the car and meant we'd be able to head to dinner a little earlier. It also meant fewer distractions apart from snuggles with Penny and ball throwing.

"Let me grab my own rain boots." Wriggling eyebrows were sent my way as he laughed and jogged over to the porch.

"Come on, girl. Let's head around the back." Penny glanced once at Austin but seemed to think I was the best choice when I made my way to the side gate. I was curious about Austin's grounds. On my last visit, I'd only spared a quick look outside. It was a big place for someone who I imagined worked a lot of hours.

My eyes widened in surprise at how vivid the place was.

A walkway made out of small rocks appeared perfectly proportioned to the many flowers and what looked to be vegetables surrounding it. Despite the large size of his property, the areas were clustered in a way that they seemed sectioned off, making the spaces almost intimate, each providing a new focus, whether it a mature fruit tree or a bench.

Flower beds scattered the area, complete with just a few plants I recognized as vegetables. I was not into gardening at all, and truthfully, I couldn't differentiate between a weed and an edible flower at the best of times, but the basics I knew.

"Wow," I mumbled, switching my attention to Austin when he joined me, ball and ball thrower in hand.

He tossed the ball a fair distance to a large open space beyond the impressive plants and flowers, much to Penny's delight. "I wish I could take credit," he responded, correctly interpreting my reaction. "It's pretty much all Billy."

"Is there anything this guy can't do?" Genuine interest laced my words.

Austin laughed. "He's a pretty incredible guy. I've tried to do what I can and have enjoyed getting my hands dirty on the weekends, especially with the rock garden he created, but the man has skills."

I nodded in appreciation. "It's amazing."

"You like gardening?"

I wrinkled my nose. "Not especially, but I can appreciate a beautiful garden." When my eyes landed on a huge weeping willow next to a small creek at the end of the property, I couldn't stop my awe from spilling out. "Holy shit, is that a bench under there? Is that the perfect reading spot or what? Oh my goodness. I think it's safe to say I'm in love with your garden."

While he laughed, I honestly couldn't think of a better spot to chill out during the school vacation. There was a small table and two chairs as well as a separate bench. During the summer, I could imagine the large shadow the tree would cast, safely protecting me—yes, I was fully immersed in my reading-spot fantasy—from the burning sun. While I wasn't milk-bottle white, I wasn't exactly a bronzed Adonis either.

"I'd envisioned it being a reading spot. Nice chilled glass of white wine or a cool beer to keep me company. When I told Billy, he made it happen."

"It's perfect, and I'm all for offering my services for extra company so you don't just need a drink." I shot a flirty smile his way, totally meaning my offer.

"I'd like that a lot," he said, and my heart did a strange but welcome little skip.

We continued walking around his grounds, trying to wear Penny out while catching up with how our days had gone. Time flew by, and as we edged closer to the house, Austin asked, "So, plans for tonight?"

"Thought we'd head to the pizzeria over in Charlesville."

A smile lifted his mouth. "That sounds good. Fewer prying eyes, right?" He followed with a laugh, and I joined in.

"We both know how quickly everything becomes gossip fodder. I can only imagine how much worse it is for you being the principal of the local high school."

As Austin rubbed off Penny's muddy paws, he snorted. "You could say that." He shook his head as he ushered Penny inside the house and picked up his shoes before closing the door. "It's not exactly been easy settling here. My sexuality was the talk of the town, and several towns over I think, for at least eighteen months. It's only the positive changes and quite possibly our Hawks football team and their wins recently that made most townsfolk settle down a little. Don't get me wrong, there's still a whole bunch of locals who struggle with the concept of equality for all." He dragged off his boots, and I followed suit. "My split caused a stir, but Rupert started to get a bit of a rep for being an asshole in town, which didn't help anything, but it surprisingly made some people less nasty about me and the breakup."

I nodded. "I may have heard a few members of staff discussing how you were better off with your ex out of your life." I laughed and shook my head.

"What?" he asked as I held the passenger door open for him. He paused a few inches away from me, his eyes dancing with interest.

"It seems that everyone thinks you can do so much better." My gaze roamed his. "Should I be worried I'm not going to be living up to everyone's expectations?" Mirth filled my tone, but truthfully, I was a little nervous for the time we became official—assuming we reached that point, of course.

He took a firm grip of my waist, stepping even closer. "I don't think you have anything to worry about." A gentle kiss pressed against my lips. Before I could push for more, Austin angled back. "Ready?"

I nodded, admittedly a little dumbly, my brain trying to catch up with the lust that had unfurled inside me when his lips had touched mine.

He stepped back fully, and I shifted, allowing him to get in the car. As I made my way around to the driver side, it was impossible to control the small smile playing on my lips, so I embraced the feeling and sat beside him, happiness buzzing through me.

The radio played quietly in the background as we chatted about where we'd previously lived, went to college, and what had brought us to the area.

I hated to bring the conversation down so breezed past my brief explanation of losing my dad, not wanting to get into it. Austin seemed to understand as he told me little about his mom passing, then started telling me about the rest of his family.

"I can't imagine having one sibling, let alone three. Must have been crazy."

"It was," he agreed. "Life was interesting, for sure."

"And you're the only teacher, well, principal?"

He nodded. "Yes. I'm the oldest too. They all think it's hilarious that I'm the disciplinarian, but what choice did I have? I spent my youth wrangling them all. It's all their fault." Amusement laced his words. "My two sisters, Robin and Debbie, both are moms. Debbie was in marketing but was happy to leave the rat race to become a full-time mom. Robin's a social worker. Her wife looks after their son full-time. He's now four and is hilariously like my brother, Frankie."

"Was Frankie a bit of a hooligan when he was a kid?"

Austin gave a derisive laugh. "Still is." Affection was evident despite his words .

"And they all live near your dad?"

"My sisters do. Free babysitting is always a pull, and Dad dotes on his grandkids. Frankie's on perpetual working vacations. I think he's in Scotland at the moment, but he hasn't been in touch for a while."

Hearing the concern in his voice, I flicked a quick glance his way. A deep frown creased his brows, an expression I didn't like seeing on him.

"Is that normal?" I hedged, not wanting to stir worry, but I couldn't not say anything.

"He's often flitting around, so we don't know he's moved on until he's skipped to the next place, but he always picks up his email."

"And he hasn't?"

"Dad was just worried about him and has tried to be in touch. He'll show up." He shrugged. "Anyhow, it'll be fine. Looks like we're here."

I didn't question the need to stop the conversation. We were celebrating, plus it was our first official date. I wasn't counting the afternoon we spent together last weekend. Pulling into a spot, I focused on having a good time. My mission was to enjoy the evening and continue to get to know the man who'd captured my attention.

Once we'd organized ourselves, we were in the restaurant, which was pleasantly cozy and tastefully decorated, and proceeded to order our food. Our drinks arrived a moment later.

I lifted my soda. "Congratulations on your fresh start."

Austin laughed and lifted his glass of beer, clinking it with my drink. "I'll most definitely drink to that."

"So, no last word from him today? He's up and left?" While I wasn't worried about his ex still being around as he really had no impact on me, after hearing the details of their relationship from Austin, I was eager for him to be free of Rupert.

"Nothing at all, so I'm taking that as good news."

"I'm happy for you." It was funny, Austin did appear to be a little less on edge. I could only imagine the impact a disgruntled ex could have on a person.

"Thank you." His eyes roamed mine, a relaxed grin fixed on his face. "I have to ask." Amusement danced in his words. "How did you get home and back so quickly tonight?"

A shy smile lifted my lips. "I didn't. I got myself showered and ready at work."

His eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Sorry, I should have thought. You could have easily come to my place to get ready."

The shake of my head was immediate. "Then how would I have been able to pick you up properly for our date?"

His gaze softened. "That's extraordinarily sweet of you. Thank you. But next time, please get ready at my place."

Delight that he was certain there'd be a next time trickled through me. While we'd shared a couple of sweet kisses and I was absolutely enjoying getting to know him, it was heady hearing the words from him. Plus, the thought of pressing against him and putting my hand down his pants was a thought never far away, so the offer had me swooning internally.

"I can totally do that," I promised.