It was like she knew I didn’t want people sniffing out any kind of friendship between us, and she respected that.
Piper either worked on her next book or read one from the library, oftentimes for hours. She seemed content to be in her corner, but she really focused when it was just the two of us.
For some reason, she liked being around me, of all people. Not only that, but she felt safe here. That felt like a win.
After locking the door right at four, Piper was leaning back in her seat, completely lost in a book. I could’ve told her what time it was.
I didn’t.
Kelsey was gone for the day, and I started my closing routine, taking it slow. I was exhausted, so I helped myself to the rest of my coffee while I worked. I got through half of the cup before I had enough energy.
I started with the espresso machine, then cleaned the counter. Piper only noticed me when I was sweeping.
It was early for her to come out of her thoughts. Normally, she was entirely lost in whatever was in front of her until I got near her corner.
“Oh darn. Lost track of time again.”
I was only at the entryway, but I paused to glance at her. “Be careful, or I might start to think you’re doing this on purpose.”
“And what if I am?” she asked. “Will you kick me out?”
“No,” I muttered.
I knew that if I looked at her, she would be smiling over at me.
“Still, I appreciate you letting me stay. And just ... everything else.”
I blinked in shock. I’d barely done anything to warrant any sort of thank-you.
Piper’s cheeks went pink. “The touching thing. I’m used to all kinds of reactions. You just ... accepted it and have continued to since you found out.”
“Is that not what others do?”
“They try, but I’ve had a few friends treat me differently. Like I’m fragile or something.”
“You’re not fragile.”
“It’s nice to hear that. And it’s nice that you’re just ... kind. The people I’ve met here so far seem to be like that too.”
All I could do was nod. After living here for years, it was easy to forget what the rest of the world was like. Sure, everyone in Strawberry Springs annoyed each other, but we all cared about each other too. I was somehow included in that, no matter how much I tried not to be.
But shitty people were everywhere. I did remember that. I was a part of that for way too long. If Piper had just moved here, then that kind of life was still on her mind.
“Don’t thank me for doing the bare minimum. I’m happy to.”
She let out a breathy laugh. “Still, it’s weird.”
“It’s an adjustment, but you’ll get used to it.”
“Is everyone like this?”
“In different ways, but mostly.”
She nodded. “That means I need to get to know them. I hope they don’t think I’m rude for going so slow.”
“Maybe they do. Maybe they don’t.” I shrugged. “They’ll get over it. Trust me, it’s not the weirdest thing that’s happened here.”
“Whatisthe weirdest thing that’s happened here?”
