Matters of the Heart

by Helen Colella

  “Amanda, don’t forget to call me if you need anything. I’m always available.” Then turning to Nick, he added, “She’s the only one I’d ever say that to, so don’t you go trying to call me in the middle of the night, young man.”

  His laughter resonated throughout the room. He bid Amanda and Nick goodbye and departed. Once his car had turned on Main Street, he retrieved his cell phone and dialed.

  * * *

  Turning their attention to one another, Amanda and Nick talked for over an hour. Finally, she asked, “How did you find me?”

  “Would you believe it if I told you I hired a private detective to search the entire state for you?”

  Her head bobbed up and down. She placed her index finger on her cheek, fluttered her long lashes, and answered, “Sure, I’d believe anything you’d tell me, Nick.”

  He beamed with delight. “Ah, hah. The lady has a sense of humor.”

  Then, he pretended to be in court. With hand raised, he vowed, “In that case, I’m bound to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” He explained about his friend Phil at Quality Foods giving him a job and a list of customers to call upon. “When I saw a restaurant listed in Crestview, I thought I’d have lunch, talk with the new owner about signing up with us, and wander around the town with hopes I might run into you. The rest, as they say, is history.”

  “I’m flattered, Mr. Dalton.”

  “By the way, I did pitch Charles about business while you were with Haliway. I hope you don’t mind.”

  “Did he give you a good order?”

  He shook his head. “Said he’d think about it and suggested I call back next week.”

  Grimacing, she interrupted. “You’ll get a good order if I have anything to say about it.”

  He pretended to tip the brim of an invisible hat. “Thank you kindly, ma’am, but it’s not necessary. I got what I wanted—I found you.”

  She watched him intently. “You know, I still can’t believe we’ve managed to connect after all the time that has passed.”

  He shrugged. “Fate. That Star Wars kind of force that determines one’s destiny.”

  At first, she didn’t respond. Within a few seconds, she said, “You may be right.”

  “Of course I’m right. Now all we have to do is wait and see what else fate has planned for us.” Leaning over the table, he motioned her closer. “I have a few questions. Why does the hostess keep watching us through the partition? Why is Charles wandering around keeping us well in his sight?”

  His questions surprised her. She told him she hadn’t noticed because he’d had her full attention. “They’re both overprotective of me these days. Ignore them.”

  “Not notice?” His eyes searched her face. A warm smile emitted his pleasure. “I must have some kind of magical power to keep your attention riveted on me, Miss Conifer.”

  Slightly embarrassed over being so captivated by him, she replied, “Perhaps you do, Mr. Dalton. Perhaps you do.”

  During their conversation, she told him Jack had mentioned her selling the business. “The business is too important to me, too close to my heart to even consider selling.”

  “I’m sure he’s thinking in the long-term perspective and how you might want to plan your future. Consider his idea premature, nothing more. But don’t dismiss the possibility.”

  “If I ever did decide to sell, I’d have to discuss it with Charles.”

  “I imagine you would. He told me he’s been part of this operation for a long time and then proceeded to emphasize his extended family status. I wondered if that were a threat of some kind.” He reached for her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

  “No, he’s harmless. All bark. No bite. Overprotective, remember?”

  “I hate to be the one to end this lovely encounter, Amanda, but I have several other stops to make. You know when you’re a new man on the job, you’re compelled to make a good impression on a boss.”

  Does he mean that Phil person or me?

  He rose, kissed the back of her hand, and promised to call her later that evening to set up a date. Before leaving, he retrieved his flower.

  Out in the truck, Nick tucked it into the day planner next to the one she had given him in the hospital. He then reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell phone.

  * * *

  “It’s me,” said the driver.

  “She’s doesn’t want to sell. Wants to keep it a family business and run it like the old man did.”

  He listened to the voice at the other end then responded, “Yes, yes. Don’t worry. I know exactly what has to be done.”

  He started the engine. “Set up a meeting. Call me with the time and place.”

  Once the call ended, he sat contemplating his next move. “Okay, then, Miss Conifer. You’re the only one to blame for what happens next.”

  He tapped the phone on the steering wheel before he tossed it onto the seat next to him, then eased out of his spot and continued on his journey.

  Chapter Twenty-Two

  Over the next few weeks, Amanda and Nick spent every spare minute together. They shared the cooking for their candle-lit dinners, popped popcorn, and watched favorite movies. They browsed flea markets and antique shops and cheered for the Broncos at Mile High Stadium. Their newfound relationship showed all the signs of a happy couple.

  After dinner one night at Amanda’s house, Nick happened to mention his delight over their meeting. “It’s hard to believe our paths never crossed before that night at the hospital. Especially since we had a restaurant connection.”

  “Our paths would never have crossed. I spent the last few years down in Denver working at the bank. Whenever I came up to Crestview, Poppy and I usually visited at the house, rarely at the restaurant. It was nothing short of a miracle.”

  “I watch you work, Amanda, and I can’t help think that you’re a natural restaurateur.”

  “That statement would have pleased my grandfather. He probably would have told you he’d been grooming me to take over from my days as a young child. He’d let me help out around the restaurant—filling salt shakers, putting vases of flowers on the tables, setting tables, and carrying out the trash. Then, as I got older, he’d give me more things to do—help in the stock room, make sherbet cups, and sometimes on special occasions, let me hand our customers the menu.”

  “Mind if I ask what changed your mind about staying on and running the business?”

  She shook her head and explained. “After an unfortunate incident at my condo in Denver and at Poppy’s urging, I agreed to return to Crestview to recuperate. That’s when I noticed how frail he had become. I felt he needed someone around to take care of him for a change. We struck a deal. I’d agreed to stay on, temporarily, if I could work at the restaurant. He agreed. Things were going along great until he collapsed. Everything changed from that moment on…and well, here I am.”

  Nick listened intently than asked, “What do you mean by recuperate?”

  She filled in the details about her attack and ended with, “To this day, the police haven’t been able to uncover anything. They’re handling it as a robbery gone badly.”

  “You could have been killed.” He reached for her hand and searched her face. “I can’t believe the police haven’t been able to find out more. Were there any other break-ins in the area?”

  “That’s what my grandfather asked. There were some auto break-ins, but the police couldn’t make any connection to my situation.”

  Concerned about what he had just heard, he asked, “Would you like me to look into this for you? I know a private investigator who owes me a few favors.”

  “Thanks, not necessary. It’s over and done with for some time now, and I’ve just accepted the police theory. I really don’t care to revisit it.” Her thoughts wandered to Poppy and how well he had prepared her to step in and take over the family business. After a few minutes of silence, she heard Nick.

  “Mandy, is everything okay?”

  “S
orry, I got lost in thinking about Poppy.”

  “Never be sorry for that. He was and always will be a big part of your life.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “I just hope you can make room for me.”

  Laughing, she leaned across the table and cradled his face between her hands and playfully gazed into his eyes. “See, you fit.” She smiled. “Right here. In my life.”

  “That’s a good start,” he added with an impish smile. Then without hesitation, he mimicked her gesture and drew her lips to meet his in a prolonged, sensual kiss. “How does that fit into the scheme of things?”

  She fanned her face. “If you don’t know by now, we’re in trouble before we even start.”

  He rose, walked to the other side of the table, and coaxed her to stand. “As far as I can see, there’s no trouble in sight.”

  He put his arms around her, pulled her closer to him. She instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, letting the excitement of his second kiss fill her with desire.

  Breathless, she eased herself away from him and whispered, “Oh, there’s trouble brewing, all right. But the kind I’m going to take pleasure from.”

  “Now you’re talking.” Then without skipping a beat, he kissed her forehead and both eyelids before drawing her back into his loving embrace and a third searing kiss.

  Her heartbeat quickened, and her passion intensified, validating her feelings for him. “Where’d that come from?”

  “I think the question is, where is this going?” He grinned.

  “You are wicked,” she declared, playfully pushing him away.

  “What can I say?” He shrugged. “I think they call it the nature of the beast theory.”

  “I don’t know who they are, but I’d have to agree.”

  He drew her close again and whispered, “Shall we test the theory?”

  “I think you’re trying to seduce me, Mr. Dalton.”

  “Ya think?” he teased.

  Amanda nodded. “Well, you don’t have to ask me twice.”

  She took his hand and walked toward the stairs.

  Chapter Twenty-Three

  One late Saturday afternoon, after Amanda and Nick had finished a day of antiquing in the shops along Broadway in downtown Denver, they decided upon an early dinner at the Rio before heading back to Crestview. No sooner had they been seated and given menus when they heard a female voice call out from across the dining room.

  “Nick Dalton. You are looking as hot as ever. How are you?”

  Startled, they both looked up and spotted a young woman dressed in designer jeans and blazer making her way toward them. The liberally applied cherry-colored lipstick emphasized her ebony-colored hair, black eyes and ivory skin.

  Amanda noticed Nick pale as he watched the attractive woman saunter closer to their table. She had to be an old flame. This looks like it’s going to be very interesting, to say the least.

  When the woman reached the empty table next to them, she took hold of a chair, spun it around, and placed it next to Nick. She set it so close that when she sat down, she was able to stretch her arm across his shoulders.

  “How long has it been, Nicky?” She didn’t wait for him to answer, just planted a big red kiss on his cheek.

  Nick’s colorless face instantly turned scarlet, almost camouflaging the temporary lip tattoo. Stuttering, he managed, “N-nice to see you too, Jen. How have you been?”

  A playful pout framed her response.

  “Not so good, Nicky. Not so good at all.” She ran her fingernail along his shirt collar and tapped his chin. “Ever since you decided not to call me anymore, I’ve been absolutely miserable and real lonely.”

  With a casual shrug, he answered, “You know how it is. Life marches on.”

  Ignoring his remark, Jennifer glanced at Amanda as if she’d suddenly appeared from nowhere.

  “Hi! I’m Jennifer Harmon, a very old, close friend of Nicky here.” Something resembling a smirk followed. “Hope I’m not intruding on one of his intimate dinner meetings.”

  “Hi yourself. I’m Amanda Conifer, a new close friend of Nick’s.” She extended her hand and feigned a matching smile. I can see you like to play games, Jennifer Harmon. Well, so do I. “And no, you’re not interrupting anything, yet. Besides, I consider any friend of Nick’s a friend of mine these days.”

  Her gaze turned to him.

  Nick took a deep steadying breath. “I met Jennifer when I bought the restaurant supply company from her father several years back.”

  “Not that long ago, Nicky. Seems like only yesterday to me.”

  Ignoring her remark, he painfully forged ahead. “Jennifer’s an attorney with Bristol and Associates.”

  “Correction,” she interrupted. “I’m now with Haliway, Bristol and Evans.”

  A server, carrying a bottle of wine and two glasses, stopped their conversation.

  “Shall I bring another glass, sir?”

  Nick said nothing, shook his head, and motioned for the man to set the wine and glasses on the table. “If you open it, I’ll pour when we’re ready.”

  Amanda continued. “Jack Haliway is my attorney and an old family friend. He and my grandfather go back a long time.”

  Jennifer seemed to distance herself for one brief moment then quickly added, “Conifer. I recognize the name. Just give me a sec….” Then, as if experiencing an epiphany, she continued,

  “Conifer and Russo. Peter Russo. Crestview Village. Right?”

  Nodding, Amanda answered, “I’m impressed.”

  “How long have you been with Haliway?” Nick asked, still trying to gain his composure.

  “I’ve been working with Jack for about two years now. I’m kind of tuned in and up to date with most of his clients. In fact, the Crestview Project is my baby, so to speak.”

  Amanda wondered what she meant, but didn’t have a chance to ask.

  “Remember what that’s all about, Nicky? The Ponderosa Development Plan and the village buy-out.”

  “I remember the Ponderosa Development idea, but not much else.”

  “You’re part of that buy-out deal, aren’t you, Amanda?”

  “Can’t say I am.”

  Then as if Amanda were invisible, Jennifer turned her attention back to Nick who decided to pour the wine. “If you’re still unattached, Nicky, I’d be happy to pick up where we left off.”

  Nick frowned, swallowed hard, and sighed.

  Jennifer kept on talking.

  “You were good for me.” She winked at him making sure Amanda saw her move. “You’re the only one who knows how to keep me in tow. I miss that, among other things, too, Nicky.”

  He looked over at Amanda, hoping she’d help him out of this awkward situation. But, to further add to his discomfort, he watched her stand and reach for her purse.

  “If you’ll excuse me,” she said. “I’ll leave you two old friends to catch up.” She rose and made a quick exit to the ladies’ room.

  This Jennifer person is a character, but there’s much more to her than this stage-like performance.

  Amanda walked back to the table just in time to hear Nick say, “Our days are long over, and you know that.”

  Jen rose, pouted, and kissed his cheek. “I’m only playing with you, Nicky. Lighten up. Besides, like I said before, I’ve got myself another guy, and we’re doing fine.” She waved goodbye and faded into another part of the restaurant.

  By the time Amanda reached the table, Nick was alone.

  He stood to greet her. “Sorry about that. Are you upset?”

  “No, I’m not upset. Should I be?” She knew he was embarrassed.

  Vigorously shaking his head, he blurted, “Don’t give it another thought.”

  “Okay, I won’t.”

  He swallowed hard. “Jen and I were a couple, for a short while, a very long time ago. It didn’t last. I’d venture to say, it never even had a chance.” He sipped some wine. “Though I have to admit it was rather intense.”

  She gave him a knowing sm
ile and picked up her glass of wine.

  “What is that look supposed to mean?”

  “We all have a past, Nick. Someday, I may tell you about mine.”

  He reached across the table for her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “And as far as knowing all about your past, I want to know everything there is to know.”

  “Hmmm.” She sipped her wine. “I don’t think anyone should reveal everything about themselves. But I’ll tell you what I think is important for you to know about and answer any questions that might come up.”

  Surprised by her response, he simply said, “Okay.”

  Amanda instantly realized her comment was not what he’d wanted to hear.

  “I definitely want to know more about you, too. This future friendly-background check goes both ways.” She flashed him a tender look. “But I don’t want to know everything about you. Just enough.”

  Following a barely discernible, nervous laugh, he said, “That’s a fair expectation.” He winked at her. “And since I haven’t led an exciting life of any kind, and there’s nothing to hide, feel free, Ms. Sherlock.”

  “When the time is right, we’ll talk.” She paused to say “no, thank you” to the offer Nick made to refill her glass. Following a teasing smile, she said, “However, just to go on record, I have to say, I can only imagine the story behind tonight’s exposé.”

  He shook his finger at her. “And I gather you have a few secrets yourself,” he teased.

  Her come-back highlighted her sense of humor. “A few secrets never hurt anyone.”

  “Got the message. But just to clarify things about Jennifer—she knows how to play the game. And very well, I might add.”

  “I noticed.”

  “Yes, I know you did.” His grin spread quickly. “I also noticed you seemed to like seeing me squirm a bit, didn’t you?”

  She fluttered her eyelashes. “I think I’ll take the fifth, Nicky.”

  “Touché.” He laughed. “Let’s just order and get on with our lives.”

  “That may be hard to do, now that ‘what’s her name’ is back on the scene.”