Chapter 13

Charlotte watched Betty shift in her chair. This was a subject that her boss was clearly uncomfortable with, and she intended to find out why. "So you seem pretty aloof about our favorite hunky mailman. Why are you not taking this opportunity?"

"Charlotte, there are a few things I'm good at. I'm good at solving problems, I'm good at crossword puzzles, I'm good at research, but I am not good at dating. My last relationship ended badly. I thought I found the perfect man only to find out that he had found the perfect woman… or should I say, women. So it's not happening. I don't have the energy to expend on another guy who's just going to turn out to be another wandering eye, which breaks my heart."

"Wow. I'm sorry, Betty. Still, though… you have a second chance in this new town, why not do it right this time?"

"Sigh… honestly?"

"Yes, you can tell me anything, Betty."

"I'm afraid."

"I wouldn't worry about Brannigan, or Bear for that matter, I think his bark is worse than his bite."

"Maybe we'll see."

"I think it's time, Betty, don't you? No one gets younger. We all only get older each day. I say let the chips fall where they may… now go get that makeover and let Brannigan see the best version of you. Just stay open to the possibility, you never know what will happen."

"Charlotte?"

"Yeah?"

"Thank you for caring enough to listen and be a part of my life."

"Well, I never had the chance to have a best friend, maybe it's my chance at a clean start too."

Betty placed her hands over Charlotte's and leaned over the coffee cup. "So, how do you think I should get my hair done?"

"Hmm. Well, even though the messy bun certainly works for you, I think maybe you should glam it up some ya know? Maybe some highlights? I fully expect you to look fabulous for the town event here at the Cornerstone, with Brannigan in tow."

"Ugh. By the way, it's going, it looks like the renovations may not be done in time for it this year. Sheriff Walker doesn't seem to be making any progress on this murder investigation. It's so frustrating for me, Charlotte. I spent years in the court system as a lawyer, yet I don't think I've ever seen the wheels of justice move this slowly."

"Maybe we should help."

"Haha. What are you talking about, Charlotte? Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

"All I'm saying is that you're smart and talented, Betty… and I am not going to miss the chance to show off my new culinary creations at the town social. We'll do what it takes to make sure the Cornerstone is ready by then."

"We'll see, I'm not one to meddle."

Charlotte chuckled at Betty's sarcasm and gave her a knowing wink. "Something tells me that's not even close to the truth."