you knew that. It’s just that you were never interested in dating or anything, so I never bothered. Come on, let’s meet tomorrow for lunch. I just want to talk about our high school days. It’ll be fun to rehash those crazy times.”
Renee thought Peter was handsome back in high school with his cute dimples when he would flash a wide smile, but when she looked at him now, she thought he was even better looking. He was a year older than her, and she didn’t remember him being so tall and lean. His deep green eyes and jet black hair were striking together.
Susanna nudged Renee. When Renee hesitated, she nudged her harder. Damn! With Susanna there, it looked like she wouldn’t have a choice.
“Okay, Peter,” she agreed reluctantly.
“Great. How about the diner on Main Street? Around one, tomorrow?”
Renee nodded. When Peter walked away, Renee just stood there, stunned. “Wonder what’s up with that?”
“Well, you’ll find out tomorrow,” said Susanna with a wink. “Maybe he really did like you more than you ever knew. He’s really cute.”
“Oh, stop. I can’t even think about another man right now. Especially that way,” Renee said with a flush creeping across her cheeks. “Besides, he was always more of a loner than I was, but it will be interesting to see what he’s been up to since then.”
* * *
The next day, Renee called Annelle and asked her if she could babysit Michael. She was happy to and came right over. At one o’clock, Renee entered the diner and found Peter seated and waiting for her. He stood up and waved to her as she approached the little square table. Peter pulled out a chair for her to sit in.
“Hey, lovely lady,” he greeted her. “I’m glad you came. I was worried you might back out. I ordered us lunch while I was waiting. I hope you like diet coke and egg salad sandwiches.”
“Yes, I love them.” Renee let out a little nervous chuckle. “I almost did back out. I’m not into socializing much these days.”
“Oh? And why is that? Pretty woman like you? Come on, now. That’s not the Renee I remember. You always had girlfriends around you.”
“Yeah, back in high school. Things are different now. My friends are either married and settled down or moved away. What brought you back here, Peter? Everyone I know tries to leave and get out into the world.”
“I did get out into the world, but I wasn’t happy. I came back here to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. I missed the quiet and calm. So, here I am. You’re looking at Fulton’s new veterinary technician. I just got hired at the vet’s office. It’s what I always wanted to be, not some computer geek like everyone else. I love working around animals.” He gave a wide smile. “Looks like you’ll be seeing quite a bit of me.”
Renee just stared at Peter wondering what was up with him. Why would he be interested in her? It’s not like she had all these guys beating her door down for a date since high school.
“Peter, I think we’d better get some things straight,” she decided. “First, I happen to be a single mom. Surely you knew this. I mean, this is a small town and you must’ve heard the gossip about me.”
Peter smiled sympathetically at Renee. “Yes, I’ve heard. Sorry, Renee, but like you said, this is a small town. And look, I’ve always had a secret crush on you and, the way I see it, I love kids, and you’re available, so… why not give it a go? I’m not asking for any type of commitment. Let’s just get to know each other all over again and see what happens.”
“I need time to think. I’m not sure I’m ready to date or whatever.”
“That’s understandable, Renee. I won’t push you. I really would just like to hang with you now and then. I don’t have too many friends here now. A movie or a walk around town. You might be surprised at how much fun I can be.”
Renee took a deep breath and shook her head. “I’ll consider it Peter. I
David Sherman & Dan Cragg