As Abner walked toward the back of the barn, Daniel murmured, “What’s he getting?”
“A tree kit — floor mat, tree stand, and rope.”
“Full service. Quite an operation.”
“He’s been doing it for as long as I can remember.”
Abner returned with a cardboard box.
“How much do we owe you?” Daniel asked.
Abner shook his head. “That fellow from New York already paid.”
“Got it.”
“You need help getting the tree tied on your car?”
“I could probably figure it out, but just in case….”
Abner nodded.
With surprising ease, Daniel picked up the tree and hoisted it onto his shoulder.
“Good job,” Abner said approvingly, then followed Daniel out of the barn.
Penny and Eva watched the two men tie the tree to the roof of Daniel’s car.
“I bet you’re glad they’re doing this and not you,” Eva whispered.
“You have no idea,” Penny whispered back.
With the tree tied, Daniel turned to Abner and extended his hand. “Thanks for your help today, Abner.”
Abner returned the shake. “Good meeting you, young man. Enjoy the tree.”
“Thanks for everything, Abner,” Penny said. “Merry Christmas!”
CHAPTER 15
With the tree fastened securely to the top of Daniel’s car, it was time for the next activity on today’s agenda: tree decorating at Heartsprings Valley Cafe.
Penny, Daniel, and Eva had each driven separately, so they piled into their cars and headed toward town, Penny in the lead. The drive flew by, and before Penny knew it, the trio were pulling up in front of Holly’s cafe.
After hopping out, Penny helped Daniel untie the tree from his car roof. Eva joined, phone already out. The afternoon sun was beginning its downward dip to the west but was still sending enough warmth to keep the cold at bay.
“Have you been to the cafe yet?” Penny asked Daniel.
“Not yet,” he said as he picked at a tight knot. “I hear great things.”
“It’s one of my favorite places on the planet.”
He shot her a grin. “Because of the apple pie, right?”
Penny smiled. He really was good at paying attention. “Holly’s muffins are amazing as well. The cafe has a wonderful ambiance. You’ll see in a sec.”
“Your bookstore’s nearby, right?”
“Just across the town square,” she said, pointing.
