Wildflower Wedding by Luann McLane Page A

peeking at him, so she stayed put. But when she closed her eyes she had a vision of him shirtless and looking mighty fine.

9
    Catch Me If You Can
    W HEN THEY CROSSED THE ROAD AND HEADED BACK UP to Wedding Row, Gabby felt a stab of disappointment. The night that she never wanted to end was almost over. They’d walked in silence for about the last five minutes, making Gabby wonder what was on Reese’s mind. Had tonight been as special for him as well? They’d talked about childhood memories, snowball fights, playing tag, and chasing fireflies on warm summer evenings. Reese still had that lopsided grin, the sideways tilt to his head when he laughed. And when they’d slow-danced, being in his arms had felt almost . . . magical.
    Gabby glanced over at Reese, thinking for the millionth time how handsome he looked dressed in the suit. The skinny tie had long ago been removed and placed in his pocket and his jacket was now slung over his shoulder, but that somehow added to his sexy appeal. They strolled down the sidewalk along the riverside, pausing halfway to sit on a park bench and look out at moonbeams dancing across the water.
    Gabby wanted him to reach over and take her hand, but he didn’t. She knew he was moving cautiously, catching up and letting her get to know him. She told herself that she was glad and yet all she could think about was if he was going to kiss her good night.
    â€œIt’s a gorgeous summer evening,” Gabby commented.
    He nodded but continued to gaze out over the water as if deep in thought.
    â€œTired?” Gabby ventured, wondering if something was wrong.
    â€œA little. It’s been a long week and next week is going to be pretty crazy.”
    â€œAre you worried about opening the restaurant?”
    Reese glanced at her and then looked down at the pavement. “Yeah, Uncle Tony needs this to go well. And so does my mom. They’re both such good people and haven’t been dealt an easy hand.”
    Gabby put her hand over his and squeezed. “I’m sure it will be successful. Your uncle has been in the business for a long time. He knows what he’s doing.”
    â€œThat’s true.” Reese shrugged. “But it was different in Brooklyn. I mean, yeah, we took a hit during the recession. The rising cost of operating Marino Pizza made times tough, and competing with chains was becoming more and more difficult. But Uncle Tony wouldn’t even consider buying into a franchise when he made the decision to come to Cricket Creek. He wants complete control and I don’t blame him.”
    â€œOh, I know. Flower shops have to compete with grocery store purchases that are a lot more convenient. But people in Cricket Creek support each other, Reese. You’ll be fine six months down the road.”
    Reese raised her hand to his mouth and kissed it. “Thank you.”
    â€œFor what?”
    â€œFor being you.” He gazed at her for a moment and then said, “We should probably get going.”
    Gabby nodded and then stood up. Something was still on his mind, she could tell. All too soon Flower Power came into view. Gabby’s heart started beating harder. Should she invite him in? It was late, but she remained closed on Sundays so she could sleep in. But letting him into her apartment at night meant moving forward in this relationship. Right? Before Reese walked back into her life, Gabby had thought that Drew Gibbons would be her perfect match. Gabby suddenly heard her mother’s warning to find Mr. Strong and Steady echo in her mind. Not knowing what to do as they rounded the side of the building, she glanced over at Reese once more, trying to read his mind.
    At the bottom of the steps she said, “I had a lovely time tonight, Reese. Thank you for going with me.”
    â€œYou’re welcome,” he replied in a soft tone, and then sighed. “Ah, Gabby, damn . . .”
    â€œWhat?” Gabby felt her