Page 75 of A Cowboy to Call Her Own

“You’re talented, experienced, and I believe you can offer them sound advice,” Rosalind said.

Kelley set the pitcher on the counter. “You want me to mentor potential culinary arts students.”

Rosalind’s eyes widened, her expression delighted. “Oh, that would be above and beyond. I can only imagine how grateful the students would be.”

Kelley knew how grateful she was for her grandfather and Trudy taking her under their wings for so many years. Now she was getting the chance to pay it forward. And that felt more than right. Kelley nodded. “I would like that.”

“We won’t overwhelm you,” Rosalind assured her. “We will work around your schedule. My, this is very exciting.”

It was. Very exciting. She apparently had a community behind her and now she was getting involved even more. And that joy Kelley had searched so hard for in the office after her call finally began to surface.

The diner’s front door swung open, and Pauline swept in, a brilliant smile on her face and a glow all about her. She tossed her arms over her head and announced loudly, “I accepted an offer!”

The tile floor seemed to give way under her boots. Kelley braced her hand on the lunch counter.

“It’s an offer for my hand in marriage!” Pauline flashed her left hand and revealed a beautiful diamond ring.

Kelley gaped and took in the bold sparkler adorning her boss’s finger.

“I am going to be Mrs. Eric Grahame.” Pauline pressed her hands to her cheeks. Her eyes flared wide. She hopped in place and shouted excitedly, “I’m getting hitched, and everyone is invited to the wedding.”

Cheers and congratulations resounded from every corner of the dining area. Hugs followed and good cheer swelled again and uplifted the gathering even more.

Pauline finally made her way over to the lunch counter and plopped down on a stool. She set her elbows on the counter and marveled at her engagement ring. A hint of breathless wonder brightened her words. “Kelley, I’m getting married.”

“Congratulations are definitely in order.” Kelley set a cup of hot water and a mint tea bag in front of her boss and asked, “When did this happen?”

“Tonight. At dinner,” Pauline sighed as if she still did not quite believe it was true. “Eric cooked spaghetti and meatballs at his place. You know that’s my favorite.”

Kelley raised her eyebrows.

“It was quiet. Private.” One more long sigh and Pauline added, “Romantic and absolutely perfect.”

“It sounds like it.”

“Do you know he was worried it wasn’t flashy enough? Not grand enough.” Pauline chuckled and fixed her tea. “I told him I’m too old for such nonsense.”

“Pauline,” Kelley scolded her boss. “Don’t say that.”

“Then you don’t think I’m too old to be a blushing bride?” Pauline looked at Kelley.

“I don’t think you’re too old to be anything,” Kelley assured her. “Especially in love and happy.”

“Thank you for that.” Pauline took a big breath and released it. “I don’t think I’ll be able to stop smiling even if I try. I might fall asleep smiling.”

“As you should,” Kelley said and envied her boss. How precious it was to be so full of joy that her smile could not be contained.

The parade preparations continued, but wedding chatter also swirled through the conversations. The evening finally drew to a close with Coach Amy declaring it was time for everyone to go home and get a good night’s rest. Parade participation required high energy and enthusiasm, no yawning or tired waves. It was some time later when, once the kitchen and dining room were cleaned up, Frannie, Pauline and Kelley collapsed into a booth and propped their feet up on the opposite bench.

“Nice work, ladies.” Pauline leaned her head back and considered Frannie and Kelley across the table from her. “You know all these flowers gives this place a botanical, outdoorsy vibe.”

“Don’t tell me you want to do a botanical-themed menu,” Kelley said, playfully.

“No,” Pauline retorted. “But what about outdoor dining?”

Kelley shifted on the bench and smiled. “Like summer patio dining.”

“Yes, but make it once a week,” Pauline said.