Dating, Dining, and Desperation (A Dear Daphne Novel) by Carlson Melody

Author:Carlson, Melody [Carlson, Melody]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: Fiction, Christian, General
Publisher: B&H Publishing Group
Published: 2014-02-04T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 15

For the next several weeks, Daphne went underground. At least that’s what she told herself as she put all her energy into working on her novel, as well as getting ahead on the advice column. Naturally, Sabrina couldn’t understand why Daphne was staying holed up in the house like that, but Daphne felt it was the best way to regain her personal peace as well as to keep the men in her life at arm’s length. To accomplish this, she would speak plainly to her well-meaning neighbor.

“Please, don’t take this wrong,” she’d told Sabrina a couple weeks ago. “But I am taking a break from men and dating—and that means I don’t want to talk about it either. I’m happy to visit with you over coffee and whatever, but if you start in on me about some eligible bachelor, or if you attempt to play cupid, I will send you packing.”

Sabrina’s eyes had grown wide. “That sounds serious.”

“You got that right. I’m dead serious. I plan to get my head back into my suspense novel. Without distractions. That means I’ll be keeping all men at a safe distance for a while.”

Not that any men were calling these days. Not even Tony. Fortunately Jake had been able to persuade the good doctor that Daphne had absolutely no interest in getting “better acquainted.” And to Sabrina’s dismay, Tony had balked at being pursued by her as well. In Daphne’s mind that was a win-win situation for everyone.

The only time Daphne went out was to spend time in the garden, visit with a neighbor, or make a quick trip to the grocery store. And this solitary life suited her just fine—or so she was telling herself. “I think I would make a really good hermit,” she confessed to Sabrina as they sat at her kitchen table. Because it was cool and damp outside, they had moved their coffee chat indoors today.

“No, you wouldn’t. A hermit lives all alone, never speaking to anyone. You wouldn’t last a week living like that.” She giggled. “And I wouldn’t last a day.”

“You wouldn’t last an hour.”

“That depends on whether I could send and receive texts.” Sabrina pointed out the kitchen window. “Hey, speaking of hermits, there goes Wally. Do you think he’s on his way to see Maria?”

“I’m certain of it. I’ve observed them walking together quite a bit lately. And Wally has looked exceptionally happy.”

“So he’s given up being a curmudgeon after all.” Sabrina let out a happy sigh. “I’m glad someone has discovered that it’s not good to be alone.”

“I’m not saying I want to be completely alone.” Daphne paused to check on the zucchini muffins baking in the oven. Her cousin Jocelyn, Mattie’s mom, had given her the recipe. “I’m just saying I enjoy a slower, more peaceful sort of life.”

“Meaning a life without a man in it?”

Daphne scowled at her neighbor. Sabrina was well aware that this topic was not welcome in this house. “Have you forgotten my new house rules?”

“Sorry. But I can’t help but wonder what will happen to you.

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