Page 32 of Searching for Love

ChapterEleven

After Lucas washed his feet and changed into a pair of work boots he had in his truck, they dropped the dogs back off in their kennels and headed out to Ruby’s.

When Lucas pulled the truck to a stop in front of the store, Avery’s heart fluttered with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. The weathered old barn, with its patches of faded red paint and sagging roof, held a special place in her heart. It was here, among the oddities and treasures, that she had spent countless hours working alongside Ruby one summer. Out of all the jobs she’d had, this one had molded her the most.

“This place hasn’t changed a bit,” Avery remarked, a fond smile playing on her lips as she took in the familiar sight.

Lucas unbuckled his seatbelt. “When did you work here?”

Avery’s gaze lingered on the rustic charm of the building. “The summer after graduation. It was my favorite job.”

Together, they stepped out of the truck and made their way to the entrance. The wooden door creaked open with a familiar protest, revealing the treasure trove of forgotten relics and vintage delights within.

Inside, the air was thick with the scent of old wood and dusty items and the best smell—that of so many books. Sunlight filtered through the dust motes, casting a warm glow over the eclectic assortment of items that filled every corner of the space in the massive barn.

Ruby stood behind the counter, her silver hair pulled back into a neat bun. The woman’s eyes widened with delight as she caught sight of Avery.

“Avery, dear,” Ruby exclaimed, her voice tinged with delight. “I didn’t think you’d make it before I closed up for the night.”

Avery’s smile widened as she stepped forward to embrace Ruby. “It’s good to see you, Ruby,” she said, her voice filled with warmth.

Lucas watched the reunion, then greeted the woman after Avery quickly introduced him.

“We’re here for the black iron outdoor furniture,” he said easily.

Ruby’s smile widened. “Ah, yes. Follow me,” she said, leading them through the maze of treasures towards the back of the shop.

As they walked, Avery couldn’t help but feel hints of deep nostalgia wash over her. It felt like coming home after a long absence, surrounded by familiar sights, smells, and sounds. She hadn’t been back here in almost two years. Why? Maybe because everything in the small cottage she lived in now belonged to Brook. When she’d moved in, she hadn’t even needed a television set or a bed.

Hadn’t she always dreamed of hunting through the odd items here to find a treasure to decorate her very own home one day?

Finally, they reached the corner stacked with metalwork pieces, and Avery’s eyes lit up with delight at the sight of the elegant black iron tables and chairs.

“They’re just as beautiful as the picture,” she breathed, running her hand over the smooth surface of one of the tables.

Lucas nodded in agreement. “Perfect for our patio.”

She wondered if he realized what he’d said. That he’d slipped and called it ours, instead of mine or the restaurant’s. What did that mean? Maybe she was reading too much into it. Either way, she knew instantly that the tables would be perfect.

After finalizing the purchase with Ruby, Lucas, and Avery carefully loaded the tables and chairs into the back of the truck. Lucas was an expert at stacking everything neatly so they had plenty of space.

“Let’s have one more look through the place before Ruby closes up. We may spot something else we need,” she suggested.

He nodded and she took his hand and practically dragged him through the store.

She was just about to give up when she spotted a deep red leather sofa sitting along a back wall.

“Ruby.” She waited until the woman came over to her. “How much for red here?”

Ruby smiled and then laughed. “For you, honey, I’ll give you twenty bucks to take her off my hands.”

“I couldn’t…” Avery started, but when Ruby’s eyebrows rose slowly, she knew better than to argue. “Deal.” She held out her hand and then when Ruby hugged her, she held onto the older woman for a while. “Thanks,” she whispered just before the woman stepped back.

“Looks like you got a sofa for your office,” Lucas said as he helped her carry it outside to the truck.

“It’s perfect,” she said as they tried to maneuver it outside without bumping into anything. It was small enough to fit in the space without eating up too much room. It was comfortable and light so she could easily move it around herself if needed.

As they drove away from Ruby’s, Avery couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the memories she had made in that old barn. “I’ll always cherish my time there,” she said, her voice laced with nostalgia.