Dandelions on the Road Read Free

hoped she hadn’t.
    He would have to get over his awkwardness where Eva was concerned. He’d be spending a lot of time with her as her official wingman. Maybe once he got to know her, he could look past her glittering hair, sparkling eyes and radiant smile. Or maybe, he would make himself look like a fool on TV numerous times…
    Brian shook his head and backed away from the mirror. This was a big opportunity. He’d get time off from his day job and the opportunity to try something new. Who knew…maybe it could even lead to something bigger and better. But he had to get over his attraction to Eva. She was just a woman…and she was about to start dating twelve men. If she was out of his league before, she was way off limits now.
    Brian made his way to the news desk and organized his notes. It was an easy news morning. An overnight fire and a grain truck accident led the headlines, nothing earth shattering. But it was Wednesday and the mid-week day rattled him. He was awkward around Eva, but now that he knew she was the Bachelorette, perhaps he could calm his nerves and immunize himself against her beauty.
    Brian muddled through the first hour of the newscast. There weren’t many people awake and watching at 5 a.m. There was no excuse for giving anything less than the best, but it made him feel better about his rookie mistakes. Once he hit the 6 a.m. hour he was in full stride. He heard Eva arrive before he saw her when a loud bark echoed through the studio, interrupting his final comments.
    “On that note, we’ll visit with Eva Merida from the Furry Friends Rescue League right after these messages. Stick around to see what critter she has with her today.” Brian smiled and shuffled his papers on the desk as the camera faded to black and the commercials began.
    He cleared his throat and stood. The production assistant would situate Eva and her companion in the adjoining studio. Interviews were more comfortable in a lounge-like setting with soft chairs and accent tables. No guest felt relaxed behind the news desk and viewers wouldn’t be able to see the animals.
    Brian checked the battery pack on his microphone. It was half charged. He had plenty of juice to get him through the interview and the rest of the show. The commercial break only allowed him a few minutes to change studios and welcome Eva. He hurried into the next room and gave her a friendly wave as she adjusted the microphone on her shirt with one hand while corralling the huge, leashed dog with the other.
    “Brought a horse with you today?” Brian asked.
    Eva grinned. “Almost. This is Roscoe. He’s probably gentle enough for a ride, but I think he’d rather be a lap dog.”
    Brian chuckled. “Say, I heard the news.” He sat in the chair closest to the newsroom as Eva stepped over the leash and settled into the other seat.
    “Sit, Roscoe.” The large dog sat and his head came up to her shoulder.
    “We’re going to be spending a lot more time together.” Brian continued.
    “Is that right?” Eva raised her eyebrows.
    Did she look interested or was Brian delirious from all the coffee?
    “You’re the Bachelorette on Accept this Dandelion and Mike asked me to host.”
    “Host? Really? That’s great!” Eva smiled.
    Her white teeth could brighten any room, even if there weren’t camera-friendly lights reflecting on them. Brian pushed his thoughts away.
    “It should be a good time. We’ll get to travel and get better acquainted.” Brian was making it sound like he was the one who would date her. He’d be at her side, yes, but not in that capacity.
    “I’m looking forward to it,” she replied. “I can’t wait to see what the station has in store.”
    She was talking about the men, right? “I’m sure they’ll choose great guys.” Brian drummed his fingers against his knees. “I hope you find what you’re looking for.”
    “Me too.” Eva met his gaze and held his eyes as the morning news theme music blared through the studio.
    Brian