“Well, slim,” I admit. “But I’m not opposed to a challenge.”
“My money’s on Callie.” Mary Ann unlocks the coop. “Okay, girl. Go nuts! I’m waiting on omelets!”
They were both right about collecting eggs; it’s damn charming. She insists that I take a full two dozen, and while I’m navigating chickens and their nests and laughing, she explains that I don’t have to refrigerate these eggs, not like with store-bought ones. My horrified expression causes her to giggle.
“No, seriously. Trust me.”
It sounds like a surefire way to get food poisoning, but I nod politely.
Danny nudges me. “Okay, egg lady, we should run. Paul has me painting the Ryans’ cottage before they get back for the summer.”
Before I can say a word, Mary Ann’s got me in a vise hug. If she doesn’t break a rib, I’ll be lucky. “I’m so happy you came out. Okay, I know you don’t know me because I wasn’t here when you were.” The hug softens after I tense, and she whispers in my ear, “I don’t have many female friends in this town, so I’m hoping we can stick together. Everyone is talking about you being back, and it’s got to be a lot. I came to Wake to help my grandparents with their farm, and I know how it can be a rough move.City girl becomes country girlkind of shit. In your case, becomes country girl again. Let me know if I can help. And you’ll stay for Wakefest, right?”
While I don’t know what Wakefest is and I hate to tell her that I’m only here for a short while, she’s so damn sweet that I hug her back warmly. “Thank you for today. It’s exactly what I needed.”
After a final squeeze, she spreads her arms in Danny’s direction. “Come here, my love. Give your girl a good-bye and promise to come around more. My grandparents would kill to see you soon.”
He swoops in and throws an arm around her waist before dipping her backward and zealously blowing raspberries against her neck and collarbone, causing her to erupt in laughter.
“Daniel…Schroeder!” she manages between squeals. “Fuck the hell off!”
When he’s done having his fun, he sets her upright. “Thanks for the eats and treats, milady.”
“Asshole,” she says in return, but I catch her smile before she turns. “I’ll get your number and call you, Callie! And maybe that idiot who is driving you.” She kisses Shallots before gently nudging him to follow us.
My eyes shut on the drive home, as I’m utterly lost in the day. And lost in the thought of how happy I am, of how I’m happier than I’ve been in months. Years.
Danny cranks up the radio, saying nothing and letting me be, as though he knows I need a minute. Then, very briefly, he pats my leg. The only thing he says is, “Jesus. Avocado toast. Thank God you’re back where you belong.”
