Kayla: When I finally make it out there, I want to hear every single detail. Not one left out. Keep sending pictures. They’re my only lifeline outside this stupid book I’m writing. I’m living vicariously through you. You’re my muse, Nora Everhart.
I send her some heart emojis before pocketing my phone and approaching the counter. The display cases are vintage, and nothing like the new ones in my New York coffee shop, which adds to the aesthetic. Each case is filled with intricately decorated cakes, beautiful pastries with icing and various toppings, perfect-looking donuts, and even some freshly made chocolate candies. On the wall behind the counter are a few fancy coffee machines, an espresso machine, and some other appliances. Written in chalk and in large Victorian frames are the coffee options and prices on one side and the sweet treats on the other.
A pretty brunette somewhere between my age and Mom’s, makes her way over to me, a friendly smile on her face. “Can I help you, hon?”
There’s something familiar about the woman. She’s definitely related to Mae, Silas, and Monroe. They all have similar features and it’s easy to spot now that I know they’re all related.
“I’m here for caffeine and chocolate,” I say happily. “I just left the post office. I feel like it’s my reward.”
She chuckles. “If you dealt with Marjorie, then you totally deserve a reward. Here for BudgieFest?”
“Not exactly.” My smile falls. “I’m Goldie Everhart’s granddaughter, Nora. I’m staying with Elias Cove until I can get her cottage livable again.”
The woman’s eyes widen. “I can see it now that you mention it. You’re Sandy’s daughter?”
“You know my mom?”
“Sort of,” she says, reaching over the display case to offer me her hand. “I’m Hattie Calder-House. Sandy was good friends with my brother.”
“Silas?” I ask as I shake it. “He’s really nice by the way.”
“When he wants to be,” she teases. “But no. She and Monroe were prom king and queen in high school. They graduated together. I was a pesky kid, but I totally looked up to her. She was so pretty. Everyone adored her.”
My heart warms at her speaking so kindly about my mother. I know my mom can be snooty sometimes, but she’s good people. Her roots are small-town even if she’s living the big life in New York.
“That’s sweet of you,” I say and mean it. “Nice to meet you, Hattie.”
“Likewise, Nora. What can I get you?”
“Something cold. Something chocolate. Other than that, you can surprise me.”
She winks at me. “Got it. Have a seat. I’ll bring it to you.”
When I start to pull out my wallet, she rolls her eyes and shakes her head. “Absolutely not.”
“I can’t pay you?”
“Oh, there’ll be payment,” she teases. “But I’ll take my payment in good ol’ fashioned gossip. I’m dying to know how staying with Elias is going.”
My cheeks burn hot which sends Hattie into a fit of giggles. Despite my embarrassment, I’m happy I came over here. Maybe I’ll actually have a friend in Budgie Bay.
Elias is your friend…
Before my face can turn any redder, I thank her and then find a cozy armchair near a bookshelf. It’s covered in books. When I find one of Kayla’s, I snap a pic to send to her.
Me: Is this fate?
Kayla: Is that even a question? BRB gotta get my affairs in order before I move to Budgie Bay!
I’d like to say she’s kidding, but you never know with Kayla. She’s impulsive sometimes.
When my phone rings, I expect it to be Kayla with more to say on the matter, but it’s not. It’s Denver. I almost send the call to voicemail, but at the last second, I accept it.
“Hello?”
“Hey, babe,” Denver says, voice tight. “I’m sorry about yesterday.” He sighs heavily. “But I’m not calling about that. I’m checking in about work. Have you looked at your emails this morning?”
“No,” I bite out. “I’m dealing with Grandma’s affairs. Remember?”
