Roses for Caroline — Lynn Bulock

On the surface, second-grade teacher Caroline Blake seems as levelheaded as they come; no one would guess that her bedroom is done in lace and scattered with romance novels. The secret is out, however, when Caroline bids over one hundred dollars at a charity auction to win a dinner with well-known romance writer Derek James. The brochure promises "a romantic candlelit interlude" with "wonderful food and sublime atmosphere." Once Caroline meets the handsome author, she is beside herself with anticipation.

Two weeks later, though, when she shows up at Derek's house, there is no candlelight--and no food! Immersed in his writing, Derek has completely forgotten about the dinner. So much for romance, Caroline thinks as he throws together an impromptu spaghetti supper. And yet, somehow, the dinner is a success. The real Derek couldn't be more different from what Caroline had imagined--he seems as sentimental as a blackboard. But "Teacher" is about to learn an important lesson on what true love is all about!