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“That’s why we came to the diner,” Ethel said. “We had lunch at home, but that chocolate pie was calling us.”
Desirae stepped up with a tray with four slices of pie and four cups of coffee. “I see you’ve met the Destiny Welcome Wagon.”
“Yes, I have.” He smiled. “And I’m very impressed.”
“Everyone is who meets the O’Learys.” Desirae placed the food and drink on the table and walked back to the kitchen.
Ethel took the seat across from him. “I’m sorry we didn’t come over before your friend left.”
“We want to meet him, too.” Patrick slid into the chair to his left. “But it looked like you two were having a serious conversation.”
Sam moved into the seat on his right. “We didn’t want to intrude.”
Sylas smiled. He liked these people. They were warm and kind. “Nic and I will be in town at least two days. I’m sure you’ll get a chance to meet him.”
“I’d like that,” Ethel said.
Patrick took a bite of the pie. “So good. Go on, Sylas. Try it.”
He nodded and ate a forkful. “Oh my God. This is incredible.”
“I knew you would love it.” Patrick sipped his coffee. “Sylas, what brings you to Destiny? A woman?”
“Patrick Michael O’Leary, you hush,” his wife scolded.
“Sweetheart, isn’t that why most people come here?”
“Brother, just remember it is none of our business.” Sam grinned. “And you don’t want to upset our wife.”
“Don’t worry, Ethel,” Sylas said. “I don’t have any secrets. Patrick, it’s partially true that a woman is why I’m here, but I actually have a job interview with Phoebe Blue Wolfe today. Do you know her?”
Patrick laughed. “Son, this is a small town. We know everyone.”
“Of course we know Phoebe, Sylas. She’s one of the best lawyers I’ve ever known.”
“And that’s saying a lot,” Sam told him. “Ethel is the county judge. Has been for years.”
“Wow.” Sylas looked at the regal woman with new respect. “Very nice to meet you. If I end up getting the job, I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other more.”
They finished their desserts and coffees, telling him more about the town and their lives. It was easy to talk to these three. And he had so many questions that they might be able to help him with about the lifestyle.
“Since you’re interviewing with Phoebe,” Sam said, “I have a pretty good idea who the special woman is that drew you to our town.”
“So when did you met Ashley?” Patrick asked with a grin.
Ethel shook her head. “Honey, you are a hopeless case.”
“Hopeless for you, my love.” Patrick grabbed her hand and kissed it. Then he turned back to Sylas. “Is your friend Nic here for the same reasons?”
“Yes.” He wished things were back to normal with him and Nic. He wasn’t sure they could ever be again. “But we’re not on the same page.”
“Son, it sounds like you have a lot you’re dealing with,” Sam said. “You want to talk about it?”
He looked at him, Patrick, and Ethel. Even though they’d just met, he felt very comfortable talking with them. “I really must go, but I would like to talk with you more. I do need advice. Is there any way I can meet with you later?”
Ethel smiled and slid a contact card across the table to him. “We’ll be home all day today. Come over any time.”
Chapter Three
