“We don’t tip – it’s enough to pay the amount on the price tag.”
“Okay, one final guess. How about a caregiver? I see a tender heart that reaches into my soul. I find it rather invasive and freeing at the same time.”
Megan spread a napkin across her knee as he passed her a plate that he’d filled with a little taste of everything he’d brought. She watched him close for his reaction, “I am a psychiatrist. Dig all that confusion out of people’s minds.”
He grinned. “Splendid! Providence has sent you to me, for my head is indeed confused.”
“I thought so too,” said Megan.
Ryan pouted. “Are you suggesting you only accepted my invitations to mend my muddled-up brain?”
“Not in the least. I’m on vacation, sir, but have been quite willing to listen when you’ve chosen to unload. Although I warn you; my reputation is ruthless. But I can have you confronting your demons and back running life’s race long before I leave.”
“I feel we’ve merely scratched the surface, and you speak of leaving already. How long are you in Edstrom?” asked Ryan.
“My girlfriend and I are here until after the New Year.”
“Splendid! The village is known for its events this time of year.”
“Yes, Edstrom Isle is a five-star retreat according to leading magazines. The shops have convinced me,” Megan said as she bit into her chicken salad. “I will need to purchase a third suitcase to tote my treasures home.”
“An easy solution. I shall send them airmail and they will be waiting for you when you arrive,” Ryan offered.
“There’s no need. Some shops provide that service and I have time to grow a third arm. I will manage either way.”
“Independent, yes? I like that quality, as long as you don’t remove all the fun from your male suitors. Our egos are fragile: We like to appear indispensable to females that we like.”
Megan lifted her brow. “And you think you like me? You haven’t got my bill for the psycho-analysis yet.”
“Mm… but never fear, I can afford it. I’m in state politics and it pays well.”
“I see clearly now why you grieve. A position in politics is a task too great for one puny man-size brain,” said Megan.
“And now you assume my brain is puny – I am confused emotionally but not about the future of Edstrom Isle.”
“We may as well start the session sir. Unload while I devour this food.”
“You have a beautiful smile, especially the teeny dimple,” Ryan said.
“I can see where your mind is confused. Problem solved. I’ll just smile forever.”
“Forever, that’s a noble offer.”
“Well, you’ll have to settle for a two-week forever span. After that, facetime through the air waves. I live in Springvale, New York – in America?” she added when she noticed his questioning glance. “But back to you. The clock is ticking, and I charge by the hour.” She grinned and took another bite.
Ryan settled his back against the cement block that held the food and focused on some distant landmark to avoid looking at his make-shift therapist and date.
“I am forced into a role in the family business that I’m not ready for?”
“No one can force you to do anything,” she said.
“I have no choice – it’s my destiny. I was hoping for more time. I feel young and inadequate for such responsibility.”
“You have a good head on your shoulders, and you can learn. It’s making wise decisions that takes the time.”
“Exactly. A politician needs to be wise. I’m sadly lacking.”
“I disagree,” said Megan playfully. “You chose to befriend me.”
He chortled. “And the world seems a brighter place when I sit here with you.”
“I’m glad to hear that. I am also enjoying my time with you.”
Megan wiggled the box. “I brought dessert.”
“Can we walk first? There’s a path through yonder wood that you may enjoy.”
“Luring me into the forest, are you? How can a girl feel safe when you keep our dates confined to hiding up here in the ruins?”
“To be honest, I’m fairly well known in the village and have recently come into public view in the worst possible fashion. Town is off limits at the moment, and besides I’m enjoying having you all to myself.”
A voice cleared from behind and Megan jumped to her feet. She turned and there stood the man she’d seen from the balcony in the castle. She found her voice. “I thought you were with Suzanne?”
The two men cast inquisitive looks between one another. “Yes, I recognize you from the tour. I was just clearing the time away with,” he paused and after a silent exchange with Ryan continued, “with my colleague here. As you’ve no doubt heard, sir, I am spending a lot of time with a woman I’ve met recently in town. Will you need me anymore today?”
“No, please go and have fun. If your date is half as entertaining as Megan, we shall both be better set for the drudgery of daytime work. Have a delightful evening, James. See in the morning.”
After he left Meg placed hands on her hips and glared. “Why didn’t you tell me you worked at the palace?”
He seemed amused. “I never got around to that detail, I suppose.”
“Very clever of you,” came another voice – a female this time. Megan spun around. “I thought I might find you here. Rescuing more damsels in distress?”
Ryan seemed uncomfortable and grew angry. “This is my place of solitude and now I’ve been disturbed twice. Return to the castle and tend to whatever suits your fancy. I will see you tomorrow.”
He grabbed Megan by the arm and ushered her out of the ruin and onto the path he’d pointed out. He stormed in silence and then as if a
