“If I were you, I’d do another stint and put in for someplace in Europe or Japan. Do some traveling while you can.” 

Feeling flushed, Paula crossed the room and poured herself a cup of water. She felt Nick’s eyes on her the entire time, but she tried not to let him know the effect he had on her. 

After another fifteen minutes of chatter—all about Nick—Michael instructed everyone to find a seat. “We have a lot to cover, and we’re already running late, so I’d like to just jump in. Let’s read the verse silently, and then we’ll talk about it. 

During the entire Bible study, as they discussed the analogy of fishing on the sea and being fishers of men, Paula felt Nick’s frequent glances at her. When the last prayer and amen had been said, Nick remained seated with his head bowed. Paula sensed something bothering him, so she left him alone and joined the others by the refreshment table. 

Drew’s girlfriend Molly approached her. “He’s very cute.” 

“Yeah,” Paula said. “He is that.” 

Molly leaned against the wall and stared at her then laughed. 

“Why do I sense something you’re not saying?” 

Paula grinned. “Maybe because you don’t have the sense to leave this one alone?” 

“Paula, I’ve known you for a while now, and I can tell something’s up. Drew already fi lled me in on your history with Nick. He even said that was why you weren’t into the relationship with him, which I’m thankful for, by the way.” 

“So what else did Drew tell you?” 

“Don’t be so defensive. There’s no shame in liking Nick. What’s not to like? He’s cute, smart, and nice.” 

“Everyone loves Nick.” Paula couldn’t keep the sarcasm from her voice. “But that’s not the point.” 

Molly widened her eyes. “Maybe that is the point.”

Excerpted from Sweet Baklava © Copyright 2012 by Debby Mayne. Reprinted with permission by Abingdon Press. All rights reserved.