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His expression turned sheepish. “I guess not. We’re more down-home than sophisticated around here.”

“Sounds nice.”

“I’m glad you think so. Did you meet any locals on your shift or just tourists?”

“A few residents came by to say hello, which was really fun. I met someone named Paisley. She seemed nice.”

“She is. She works up at the resort. She manages their events. Weddings, parties, the big business conferences.”

Paisley had said as much, then had offered to introduce her to a few of her friends, suggesting they all get a drink together.

“You know a lot about her,” she said, her voice teasing. “Is there a Lawson–Paisley scandal I should know about?”

He laughed. “No. I’ve known her all my life, but we’ve never dated. In high school I was kind of a one-woman man.”

“What happened to her?”

“We outgrew each other.”

There was something in the way he said the words, as if there was more to tell. But before she could decide if she wanted to press him, they arrived in The Wreath.

Just like at lunch, the big, open area was filled with people. The handful of restaurants all had outdoor seating, and most of the tables were full. Children ran around, couples held hands, and music played from big speakers.

“This is nice,” she said. “Friendly.”

“Friendly is good.”

She smiled. “Yes, it is.”

He put his hand on the small of her back and pointed to Navidad Mexican Café. “Prepare to be amazed. Nearly everything is homemade. They make their own chips, and if you’re not careful, you’ll make a meal of them.”

“Are the chips red and green?”

He looked at her. “How did you know?”

“Seriously?”

“Sure. What other color would they be?”

“I don’t know. Chip-colored. Is this a Christmas in July thing or all year round?”

He held open the door so they could go inside. “They’re red and green for the month, then at the holidays. The rest of the time they’re, as you said, chip-colored.”

“So I should feel special?”

“That’s my goal.”

She knew he was teasing, but his words still made her feel warm all over. He was saying and doing all the right things, which was hard to resist. Most of her was willing to believe he was exactly who he seemed to be, but a tiny sliver of her urged caution. She’d been charmed before, and every time the relationship had ended in disaster.

He gave his name to the hostess, and they were shown to an outdoor table tucked in a corner. A few tall plants in pots gave the illusion of privacy, while still allowing them a nice view of the square . . . or, rather, circle.

Once they were seated, their server came and took their drink orders.

“You’ll want to try the margaritas,” Lawson told her. “They’re supposed to be the best.”

“Sure. I’ll try the house special.”

“Beer for me,” Lawson said. “We’d like some guacamole and chips, please.”