“Sometimes the truth can be

so boring…”

Chapter 17

“Nope…I always pay my own way,” I said briskly…and I pushed the money back at Hank.  I knew I didn’t sound too friendly…because then…

He turned to me and looked really puzzled at my sudden change in tone…

It was as if he was trying to guess what I was thinking.  Well…good luck with that…

Then…getting no reaction from me other than a humorless smile…he just shrugged his shoulders, took my money and added it to the pile for Nan.

“Everyone ready to go?” Hank said…looking across the table at Bob and Franny…who were again deep in conversation.

We all got up and headed for the door.  Hank held back a little and walked over to the owner.  After a couple of minutes, he joined us outside.

“Cinnamon,” he said with a pleased look.  “Good to know.”

And then we were all on our way home…

There was a decidedly different feeling between Hank and me now.  Well.  It wasn’t my fault.  I wasn’t the one with the “little wifey and nine kids” waiting at home.

The ride back was not nearly as exciting as the ride to the restaurant.  I was really disappointed and kid of sad that Hank wasn’t single…and available.

He was super cute and fun…and he seemed to have a good sense of humor which I especially like in guys…

And…he could have stayed mad at me for my stupid move on the motorcycle…but he hadn’t.

And…even though we hadn’t had much chance to talk…I felt a small connection…at least when he wasn’t yelling at me or when I wasn’t lying to him…

Then I remembered that little “happy feeling” I had felt when he grabbed my hand as we first walked into the restaurant.  Now…surprisingly…tears stung at my eyes.

Oh damn.  I blinked my eyes and focused.  Maybe I would meet some great guy at The Friendly tonight.

According to Franny, half the single men in Minneapolis showed up there on Saturday afternoon…we’ll see…

I blinked again and looked at my watch…it was only 5:12…the night was still young and full of possibilities.

I sighed…