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“How is your business going?”
“Busy,” she said. “Need a side job?”
I shook my head as I laughed. “I’ll be busy with the vet clinic.”
“Are you running the whole thing?” she asked.
“I’ll be the veterinarian, but that’s it. Your mom’s the one who called me about it. Do you know why Dr. Dan didn’t try to sell the business?”
She pressed her lips together, her brow furrowing in concern as she replied, “He has dementia. Natalie, his wife, said he refused to sell. She told my mom she’d rather have someone he trusted simply take it over. I guess that’s you.”
“Oh,” I said slowly. “Your mom didn’t mention he had dementia.”
“She said it’s the gentle kind. He’s really forgetful. He knows who I am, but he thinks I’m still in college,” Amelia offered with a shrug. “I just go with it.”
“Natalie hasn’t mentioned anything about the plans for the clinic.”
“I believe she wants to give it to you.”
I stared at Amelia, my mouth dropping open before I snapped it shut. “Give it to me? I thought I was taking the job to be the veterinarian.”
“That and the whole clinic.”
I shook my head, my curls swinging with the motion. “Wow.”
“Don’t panic. Just talk to them. I’m sure you can figure something out that works for everyone.”
Amelia glanced toward the door of the café as Jonah departed. Her eyes took on a gleam when she looked back at me. “Do you know who couldn’t keep his eyes off you?”
“Uh, no?”
“Jonah.” She waggled her eyebrows, and I felt my cheeks getting hot again.
“I doubt that,” I said dryly.
“I don’t,” she said succinctly. “It was impossible not to notice.”
I rolled my eyes. “I’m not looking for love.”
“Are you seeing anyone?” she asked.
At twenty-eight years old, I was at that age where people often expected me to be paired up with someone. I took a breath, letting it out as I shook my head. “Life’s been busy. It’s not really a priority. Now that I’m here, I’ll be busy getting started with the clinic, and I’ve got a few things to take care of on the house.”
“Do you need help?”
I smiled. “I’m sure you’re busy with your regular business, but thank you for asking. It’s nothing major. With my parents gone, the house needs some catch-up on maintenance.”
“You’re a friend, and you’re like family. Just say the word if you need help. Lucy and I can come out on the weekend and help out.”
My throat felt tight, and tears stung my eyes. It was good to be home.
A short while later after we had finished our coffees and walked out to the parking area, Amelia said, “Give me your number. I’ll text you for card night. I’m sure everyone would love to see you, and you can meet a few new people.”
We exchanged numbers, and I left. As I drove by Willow Brook Fire & Rescue, I remembered Jonah staring down at me when I was naked in the lake. The mere memory of it sent a sizzle of electricity through my body.
ChapterFour
Jonah
