Page 20 of The Mr. Right Checklist

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

“I was just thinking about how you barely know me, and you’re helping me so much. I truly appreciate all the time and guidance you’ve already given me. I jumped into this business with two feet and I had no idea how many important steps I missed. I might not have realized it until I made even bigger mistakes than I did yesterday. I can’t help thinking that maybe you and I were meant to meet. Fated.”

“Get your head out of the clouds, sunshine. We met because of my dog and a stalker. Nothing more, nothing less.”

“I don’t know about that, naysayer. My friends have always come into my life for a reason. I think maybe I am supposed to help you find your match, and you’re supposed to keep me out of trouble.”

He looks at me like I’ve lost my mind.

I pick up my cookie and take a bite. The flaky pastry and sweet cream melt on my tongue in a glorious combination of deliciousness. I point what’s left of the lady lock at him and say, “Forget all that. My head was stuck in the clouds. You obviously came into my life to introduce me to the best darn cookie I’ve ever had.”

That earns a genuine smile.

Chapter Seven

DESTINY

Monday morning I’m bursting with hope and anticipation. I feel so much better prepared to run Get the Yes now. It’s shocking how unprepared I was, but as Fletch suggested, I am chalking that up to a learning experience and looking forward to meeting with his brother Chuck later this morning.

I want to make a good impression, so I wear a cute blue dress and sandals and tuck my sneakers into my bag with the treats I baked last night for Molly. Before heading to work, I leave a message for the insurance rep Fletch referred me to, and my nerves take over as I call Mr. Patel and leave him a message as well.

Fletch warned me not to get my hopes up, but I’ve never been good at that, and I spend the morning anxiously awaiting Mr. Patel’s call. I wish Ruby were working this morning. She would know what to say to calm me down. But she doesn’t work until later today, so I channel my nervous energy into talking out my worries with the dogs I groom.

By the time I finish at Perfect Paws and head out to Port Hudson to meet Chuck, I’ve checked my phone two dozen times. There’s still no word from Mr. Patel, and my hopes deflate a notch or two.

Port Hudson is home to Boyer University. It’s bigger than Harmony Pointe, and much busier, with several restaurants and bars and interesting-looking shops along the main drag. Chuck works in a brick building not far from the center of town. As I climb out of my car and head across the parking lot, my phone dings with a text. I dig it out of my bag and see Fletch’s name on the screen. Happiness bubbles up inside me.

Fletch:

Hey, sunshine. How’d it go with Mr. Patel?

Destiny:

I left a message before work, but he hasn’t called back yet.

Fletch:

Remember what I said about managing your expectations?

Destiny:

Fletch:

Are you sure you still want to walk Molly today?

Destiny:

Yes! I’m looking forward to it.

Fletch:

I think she is, too. She was pretty excited when I said you were coming over. I left a key under the mat. Keep it for next time. Her leash is hanging by the door. The backyard is fenced, but the front isn’t. Please be careful with her. She might chase squirrels or other dogs, and she’s strong. You need to show her you’re the boss.

Destiny:

Like you did at the park?

Fletch: