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hate when they destroy old buildings. All that history and fine architecture gone to waste. They tore down several in downtown Cleveland.”
    “I know what you mean. Not that I have a problem with new buildings. They have their place, but I like the old ones. Come on, I’ll show you the new high school.” As they walked, Jeremy told her how Morrisville played a part during the Civil War.
    “Morrisville was a small town at the time, not that it’s big now, but a lot smaller than it is. Anyway, Union Forces were in quick pursuit of the Confederate Army who stopped here and set fire to an ammunition plant on the outskirts of town. When the Union Forces arrived a couple hours behind, townspeople slowed them down with a festival and a feast. Got half of them drunk if the story is to be believed. It slowed them down, giving the Confederates time to rest and get away. Not sure why they sympathized with the confederacy this far north, but they did.” He related these historical events with the knowledge of one who had studied and learned the town’s history.
    It fascinated her, but she couldn’t hold back a yawn.
    “You’re tired, and I’m boring you. Sorry, but I take every advantage to discuss this old town.”
    “I’m tired is all,” she said and laughed. “The history is fascinating. I love old towns, and this one has so many historical buildings. It must be the cool autumn air wearing me down.”
    “Hey,” someone called from across the street. They turned toward the voice, and she recognized the boy from the Boot Factory.
    “Rebecca, meet Tom Olsen.”
    “We’ve sort of met.” She extended her hand. “He’s the first person I asked for directions on the way into town.”
    “I see you’ve accomplished your goal.” Tom grinned, and his gaze went to her hand that Jeremy held.
    She didn’t like the insinuation, but ignored it, turning instead to Jeremy. “It’s getting late, I should be getting back, and you need your rest.”
    “I just wondered if you had any leads. On who shot you, I mean.” Tom directed the question to Jeremy, turning the tables and ignoring her.
    “No,” Jeremy answered. “No leads; you hear anything you let me know.” Jeremy looked at Rebecca. “Tom is studying law enforcement at Morrisville College.”
    “Really?” Rebecca couldn’t contain her surprise. In a million years, she wouldn’t have guessed that. He struck her more like a fashion photographer. Or someone who worked with beautiful women would have been her guess. She thought she made good character judgments, and something about Tom didn’t sit well with her. Too arrogant, and he had an attitude. But Jeremy seemed to respect him. Guess you couldn’t judge a book by its cover.
    She edged closer to Jeremy as Tom’s gaze shifted to her own and scrutinized her.
    As if Jeremy sensed her discomfort, his arm went around her waist, and she snuggled into him. Finally, they said their goodbyes and moved off.
    “He’s not a bad sort,” Jeremy spoke as they walked. “He does have a way about him though. He thinks all women are supposed to fall at his feet. Must come from being the football hero and having any girl he wanted. I noticed you were uncomfortable with him.” He smiled when she gave him a confused look.
    “You made it pretty obvious.” He tightened his hold around her waist and laughed.
    Heat rose to her face; damn she hated blushing so easily. She hadn’t meant to be so obvious. Yet she liked it here, nestled against Jeremy’s arm. It had been a long time since she’d trusted a man. She’d hardly even dated since Rob broke up with her two years ago. Sure an occasional dinner date here and there, but she never let it go beyond a couple of dates. Yet for some reason, she trusted Jeremy completely.
    Something drew her to him. She knew he sensed her feelings and presence; he just wouldn’t admit it yet. She understood his reluctance. It had overwhelmed her at first, too. She had never heard anything