Chapter 5: Chapter 5

“Hi there,” he said in a cool, even voice. “I’ve heard so much about you.” He laughed and his laugh was quite dorky but absolutely endearing. “I feel like I know you or something.” He grabbed my hand, pumping it vigorously. “I’m Dayton.”

I liked him. Just like that. I liked this guy a lot. He had one of those open, trusting faces. He wasn’tthe type of man I’d notice on the street, but he was wholesome-looking. Safe is what he was. “Nice to meet you,” I returned, shaking his hand.

“Sit down, hon.” Elsie unfolded a chair for me and quietly slid the patio door open. “I’ll get you a glass.”

I wondered if I was intruding, but Dayton insisted. “Join us.” He sat down again and the chair creakedunder his weight. He looked more like a gym teacher than a math professor. “So the night didn’t turn out the way you wanted?” he asked, winking.

Something about him put me at ease. “Not exactly, no.”