I immersed myself in interviews. I told myself it was solely because I prided myself in doing my job well. But I knew the truth. I was avoiding Colt. He found out my room number. I know that, because he came knocking on it. I stayed quiet, acting like I was not inside. Afterwards, I tried my best to not be there so I wouldn't have to force myself to stay quiet and not let him in. It was physically painful to do so.

I wasn't sure what had gotten into me. I had gone out there because of the job, sure, but I had really went because of Colt. Because I wanted to see if maybe our short time together had actually meant something more than what he had led on. Seeing him with someone else did something to me I had not ever felt before. Not even the time when I found out Mark was briefly talking to an ex-girlfriend in the beginning of our relationship, did I feel that way.

It was stupid of me though. Colt and I weren't together. We were supposed to be friends. And there I was, pushing him away because I felt I had some unspoken claim on him.

"Grace?"

I looked to Emily who was staring at me with the type of look only moms can give.

"I said, what did you think about her? She was the last interview today."

"Oh, sorry. She was fine. Lacking a bit of personal skills, but her resume is impressive." I looked down at the paper in my hands. We just finished an interview for the executive chef position. Hannah James was the robust woman's name. She had trained at a culinary institute and was a personal chef for Macy Adams, an upcoming actress and fitness model. Overall, she was perfect for the position. "We should hire her."

"I'm sure her vast experience will make for good food. However, I'm more interested in someone who makes, not only the food, but the place feel like home. Don't you agree?"

I stared at her, processing what she had said. I had never approached an interview by looking for someone who I knew would make the restaurant feel like a home away from home.

"I am just not sure who it is you are looking for."

"I do. And I think you do too. Just think about it okay hun?"

Me. She meant me.

I went to protest, but nodded my head instead.

"Wonderful. Oh, and dear? There's a lovely live band playing tonight and an open wine bar. I will see you there."

She left without another word, leaving me with no way to protest. Yep, I definitely needed to learn her ways. But perhaps it could only come from raising a hardheaded son like Colt.

****

I checked my reflection once more. I was wearing a cream, off-the-shoulder, long-sleeved dress that clung tight to my body and ended just above my knees. My hair was straightened and sleeked back, and I had a touch of red lipstick on. It was maybe a bit much for live music out on the veranda, but the last time I had been out there with Mark, there were fairy lights hung all around, and it made the night feel magical. I wanted to recreate that magic, and the dress certainly helped.

I stepped out of my room and headed toward the veranda. The soft sounds of music and laughing could already be heard. It was a warm evening; the air was completely still as if it thought that one small breeze would disrupt the peace of the night. The band was playing a sweet melody and just as hoped, fairy lights hung from the roof.

I headed toward the open bar and grabbed a small glass of wine. Sipping it, I turned around and came face to face with a handsome stranger. He wasn't much taller than me, had almond brown eyes and sandy blonde hair.

"Enjoying the evening?" He asked.

"I am. I haven't really had a night out in awhile actually."

"Well lucky me that I get to be witness to the time that you do. I'm Nick." He extended his hand to me and I took it.

"Grace. Nice to meet you."

"So, how long is your stay?"

I mulled over his question. I had been hoping it was potentially a permanent trip. But now I did not know. I had turned my life upside down the moment I handed Mark back his ring. And while it had been scary, it was also exciting. But I had no idea what I was doing anymore, not when I couldn't even face Colt. It almost felt as if I was in limbo.

"I'm actually not sure yet."

He took a sip of his drink, eyeing me over the rim of the glass. "Are you the spontaneous type?"

Before I could answer, a couple dancing together caught my eye. Colt spun the blonde around as the song ended. Pulling apart, they clapped with the rest of the guests who were enjoying the music.

"I'm sorry, would you excuse me?" I turned to walk without waiting for an answer, but I didn't get far. Nick's hand gently gripped my arm to stop me, so I spun around only to see that it was Colt standing in front of me. His electric blue gaze knocked the breath out of me.

"Going somewhere? Again?"

"Colt. Hey. No, I was just--" I took a deep breath and forced a smile. I could handle this. I wasn't going to leave. "No, I'm staying for a bit."

The band started singing a slow song and Colt softly nodded, holding his hand out to me.

"Dance with me." While I knew it wasn't a demand, it wasn't a question either.

I hesitated and he noticed.

"Come on Grace, give this gentleman the honor of a dance."

"I don't see a gentleman anywhere."

He chuckled, stepping closer and tucking his thumbs into his tight, dark jean pockets. His crisp, white button-up shirt made his fierce blue eyes stand out more than usual. He looked like every woman's dream--dark jeans that hugged him sinfully, golden-tanned skin contrasted by his white fitted shirt, a black, wide-brimmed cowboy hat, and a smile that could send any woman on her knees. Not to mention a voice that coated your skin like silk sheets. I hated how much I noticed--that he had such an effect on me.

"You're right, but I would like the honor anyway...ma'am." He pulled his hand from his pocket and held it out to me once more. I took it without hesitation that time. He led me onto the floor and placed his other hand on my lower back, pulling me in close.

My entire body pulsated under his touch. The feeling he evoked in me was not something I was used to. Five years with Mark, and I never felt an ounce of what I felt near Colt. I realized then, that even if I couldn't claim Colt as mine, I made the right decision by leaving Mark. If I had even the slightest possibility of feeling that way with someone, then I deserved to find it.

He leaned in, whispering in my ear. "You look beautiful tonight Grace." My whole body momentarily tensed, a reaction to his whispered comment, and goosebumps appeared on my traitorous body. He pulled back again and studied my expression. "I have been trying to find you."

"Oh?" I asked, feigning ignorance. "I'm sorry, I have been busy with interviews."

"Pulling a me, are we? The busy excuse doesn't suit you."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

He spun me around, quickly pulling me back into his chest, the palm of his hand resting again on my lower back.

"It means, I don't believe you. It means, I think you have been avoiding me."

"Oh, don't be so conceited Colt. Not everything revolves around you."

He jerked his head back and narrowed his eyes, his lips twitching upwards in a half smile.

"I see that I have the same effect on you at least."

"Oh yeah? And what effect is that?"

"The one that makes you feel." He stilled our movement, his eyes penetrating my own.

"Feel what?" I breathed.

"Fucking something." He emphasized. His intense stare was magnetic. I almost got lost in the pull of him, until his next comment jerked me back.

"Where's Mark, Grace? How come he isn't here with you yet again?"

The nerve of him! I had no idea what game he was playing, but he was absolutely infuriating! Like always. Why was he asking about Mark when he had Miss Legs over there waiting on him?

"What's it to you Colt? Haven't you learned to stay out of my relationship?"

He pressed his hand harder on my back, forcing me even closer to him.

"Haven't you learned by now what it is you deserve?" His eyes bored into mine before flickering to my lips.

The song ended, but we stayed motionless, in a stand off with one another. I looked over to see the pretty blonde heading over. I placed my hand on Colt's chest and pushed him back.

"I'm sorry. I just can't. I can't do this."

I didn't miss the hurt and confusion that flashed in his eyes before I turned and walked, then ran, away.

I had a lot of fun writing this dancing scene! It's one of my favorite moments between Grace and Colt. I hope you guys enjoyed it too!

If you're ready, let's see what happens when Colt keeps his promise and runs after Grace. I have a feeling she won't get far this time. What do you think?

Thank you for all your votes and comments or to anyone who has shared so far. It truly means so much and gives me some validation in my writing❤