I was really impressed with their operations,” Chad said, taking a last sip of his hot coffee while the waitress removed his chili bowl. Tessa nodded. “So far they seem to be above board, but I don’t know how they’re going to survive if those water rights issues don’t get resolved.” Chad groaned. “Don’t even get me started on that one. If I’d had six more months in office, I might have considered tackling the problem, but….” “Well, as a senator for the state, you’ll have all the pull you’ll need at the Federal level,” Tessa said. A slow smile spread over Chad’s lips. “Very clever. But you’re not going to get me to commit.” Tessa laughed and the sound of it made Chad’s smile deepen. Her laugh was full, bright and sincere. “Oh, come on,” she said. “We’re friends now. You can tell me. You are going to run for that seat, aren’t you?” He leaned back in his chair, hooked his arm over the back of the seat and fiddled with his knife. He knew better than to say anything but somehow, he couldn’t seem to help himself.
