Free Taking Chances by Loni Flowers Page A

like that.”
    “I’m sure you’ll have no problem.”
    Clair laughed out loud. “Yeah, right! I seriously doubt that. Not with my track record. So the one really good perk of living with your grandparents was the food, right?” she said, changing the subject.
    “Most definitely, that was the best part,” he joked. “I’m kidding; but oh man, could she cook. Gran always made three full meals a day. It was the best food I’ve ever eaten. But don’t tell Roz I said that.”
    Clair laughed, “I bet she taught you those manners too, didn’t she? Guys don’t hold doors open for women anymore. Chivalry is dead. If you’ve got two hands, do it yourself. That’s the stance most men take.”
    “It’s just common sense, if you ask me. But yes, I suppose Gran did teach me a thing or two,” he said, winking. Alex picked up his drink to take a sip. Their conversation was so light and surprisingly fun that he hadn’t even realized they were still holding hands across the table. It felt right. As if her hand belonged in his and he didn’t want to pull away.
    “Ohh…watch out, it’s hot,” the waitress said, holding a pizza tray in her hand.
    Alex released Clair’s hand and smiled. “This looks delicious, doesn’t it?”
    “Yes! It smells delicious. I can’t wait to taste it.”
    “Well, that could be another few minutes. It’s really hot,” he said, placing a piece on her plate.”
    “Thank you, Alex, for bringing me here tonight. I’m really having a great time.”
    A wide smile lit up her face and he was excited to see her so happy, for once. “I’m glad to hear it because the night’s not over yet.”
     
     

 
    Clair
    Walking out of the restaurant, Clair lazily looped her arm through Alex’s. “That pizza was amazing. I’m stuffed. I don’t know how I could possibly eat dessert.”
    Alex laughed, “I’m glad you enjoyed it. The food is always great here.”
    “You come here often?” She couldn’t help but wonder how many girls he’d brought here before. Not that it mattered, really; this was just dinner and nothing more. She didn’t want to be the latest girl he added to his list.
    “No, it’s been a few months, at least. When we have construction jobs around here, the guys and I try to stop in as often as we can. It’s just too good to pass up.”
    Clair nodded in agreement but felt stupid for letting her mind assume otherwise. As they walked down the block toward Alex’s Jeep, Clair heard music. The sidewalk had grown busy with roaming patrons milling up and down the street. “Oh, I wonder what’s going on down there,” she said, visibly intrigued.
    “I’m not sure. Do you want to walk around for a bit and check it out?” He looked at his watch, “It’s still pretty early, unless you’re ready to go home?”
    Clair pulled on his arm, “Not at all, let’s go see.”
    A flyer that was taped to a lamppost announced the town was having a street carnival to raise money for the local library. After a recent fire, all the vendors and restaurants in the area planned to donate fifty percent of their proceeds to support the library’s restoration. Walking around the block, they saw the street had been closed off and vendors hugged both sides of it. A band played at the far end of the street and people were dancing in front of a makeshift stage. Everyone appeared to be having a good time. The night was warm with a light breeze freshening the air. The vendors were selling everything from arts and crafts to food and games. She browsed the different booths ahead of Alex, while he lingered over a stand that sold handmade model cars.
    At one booth, a particular piece of jewelry caught her eye and Clair picked it up. Its sterling silver chain felt cool to the touch and a small dreamcatcher pendant hung from it. Tiny turquoise beads threaded with wire formed the pendant’s center, where two silver feathers hung. Clair was amazed at the minute details its creator invested into its