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“So, um, your mom never remarried? Is there anyone special in her life?”

Chloe’s sharp gaze fixed on my face. “No. Why?’

I shrugged, then reminded myself that I promised to be open and honest with my family. I met Chloe’s eyes.

“My main goal in coming here was to try to get to know you, Chloe, and that is still my top priority. But when I saw Dawn again, well, I realized that I never got over her.”

Her eyes widened in shock.

“She’s been through a lot,” Chloe reminded me. “If you’re just looking to relive some memories or have a fling, I’m going to need you to stay away from her.”

I almost smiled at the protective look on my daughter’s face. She looked like she was going to punch me if I said the wrong thing.

“No games. I still love her. I never stopped loving her, I just didn’t realize it until I came into the restaurant the other day.”

Chloe nodded. “Well, in that case, you’re going to have your work cut out for you. Mom is very guarded. She doesn’t let anyone get close, other than me and her friends Evie and Emma. And she’s broken up with every guy that ever tried to get serious with her.”

“I know it will take a while to earn her trust, but I’m committed to doing it. As long as it won’t bother you, Chloe. If you will feel uncomfortable if I pursue your mother romantically, I will absolutely step back, no matter how I feel about her.”

Another appraising look, then she seemed to come to a decision.

“You have my blessing, but if you hurt her I’m going to have to cut you. And let me tell you, I know my way around a meat cleaver and I’m way meaner than my mom is.”

“Understood.”

She stood up gracefully, then held out her hand to give me a boost. “Come on old man, I’ll race you back.”

Chapter 6

Dawn

Tuesday was always a quiet night at the restaurant. Chloe took a class on Tuesday nights, so it was just me, one waitress, and the kitchen staff. I was ready to close a bit early if no one came in; I hadn’t been sleeping very well since my ex-husband had shown up in town.

As if my thoughts had conjured him, the door opened and there he was. Griffin. He was dressed in black jeans, a light blue button down, and his black motorcycle jacket, his helmet stuck under one arm. I wondered idly if he belonged to some kind of motorcycle club like the guy in the book we were reading for book club, “The Biker’s Bride”.

“Chloe’s not here and we’re about to close,” I called as he walked through the door.

Griff made a big show of stopping to look at the hours posted on the door. “It says you’re open for thirty more minutes,” he pointed out. “I was hoping to get dinner.”

I sighed deeply.

“Fine. Sit wherever you want.”

Amy, the waitress on staff tonight, came out, her apron and purse in her hand. She stopped when she saw Griffin seating himself at a table near the front.

“Oh. Um...”

“It’s okay Amy, I’ll handle this table so you can go.”

She looked relieved. “Thanks Dawn, I appreciate it. I have a date to get ready for.”

I sauntered back to the table and crossed my arms. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m hungry. Can I see a menu?”

“No, you’re going to eat what I bring you.” I turned and stalked away, then looked over my shoulder. “What do you want to drink?”

“Whatever beer you have on tap.”