11

 

Ryan pulled into the parking lot of the human resources building at Ohio State which wasn’t all that close to where he worked. A good sign.

Jamie gave him a sweet smile and fluttered her eyelashes. “Thanks so much for the ride. I know there’s not much chance of getting a job here since I have no real skills but it’s worth a try. Don’t you think? That would make my Mom proud if I worked for a college.”

“Yep. Gotta get out there and give it the old college try.”

She laughed. “That’s funny—the old college try.”

“Most people don’t get my humor.”

“I’m not most people.”

“Clearly not.”

“Thanks again for the ride and for cheering me up. It’s so hard to come to a new city and not know anyone.” She extended her hand.

He grabbed hold and squeezed. “Stop down at this bar afterward. I make a mean burger.” He handed her a tattered business card.

“I might just do that. Thanks again.”

Two hours later, Jamie walked to the bar. She lifted her face to the sun enjoying the warmth. The brightness of the day reminded her of Florida. Her heart twisted. She missed Sabrina, but she was sure her daughter was having the time of her life at the Bible camp.

She got back into character and slumped her shoulders trying to look dejected

There it was. Good Times Tavern.

She opened the door of the bar and walked in. The sudden dimness was in sharp contrast to the bright sunshine outside. She blinked a few times to let her eyes adjust. She breathed in the scent of burgers and beer. Her stomach growled. It had been a long time since breakfast.

“Hey, you showed up.” Ryan stood behind the bar. “Barbara, right?”

“Barb is fine. I have to eat somewhere, and this place is as good as any. I hear the chef makes killer burgers.”

“You did, did you?” He laughed.

“That’s the rumor. I’ll take a cheeseburger and fries.”

“And a beer?”

She shook her head. No matter what the circumstances, she never drank alcohol. “Too many calories. A diet soda works for me.”

“I doubt if you’ve ever had to worry about a calorie in your life.”

“Thanks, but I’ll stick with the diet soda.” She rewarded him with a seductive smile.

Customers drifted in. Some sat at the bar and others sat at the tables. Besides being a bar, it was apparently a popular choice for lunch.

She picked at her food and chatted with Ryan between customers. After an hour or so she made a show of checking her watch while Ryan was standing near. “I need the bill. Gotta get moving.”

“My treat.”

Feigning surprise, she smiled. “Oh, well. Thanks.”

“What’s your hurry? Why not stick around, and I’ll drive you home when I’m done? It’s not like you have a job or anything.”

“Well, I won’t find one sitting on this bar stool. And I need money. Bad.” She smiled. “You don’t need someone here do you?”

“Not my department, but I’m guessing no. I’ll check with the boss later.”

“Great. Well, there’s a job out there somewhere for a girl like me. And I won’t find it sitting in here enjoying your company.”

“Good point. At least give me your number.”

She did and walked out.

Quite satisfied with her day’s work Jamie had accomplished exactly what she wanted to do that day.

Ryan Mattson believed he was the one doing the pursuing.