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“A movie night huh?”
“Yeah. It was nothing, really.” I’m really hoping my face doesn’t give me away.
“Was Nora home?”
“She was actually, she woke up and wanted me to put her back to bed. She’s just too cute.”
“Wait, Brent had you over while she was there? And you put her back to bed?”
“Yep.” Something tells me this is going to be a thing. “Is that surprising?”
“Um yeah. The only other women who have been inside while Nora is home, since Michelle died, have been me and his mom.”
“Really? What about dates?” Well, now I am intrigued.
“He’s gone on some dates but has never brought anyone home, at least not while his little girl is there. Don’t repeat any of this, he will have my head.” She groans.
“My lips are sealed.” I mime locking my lips and throwing away the key.
She’s right. If Brent knew she was sharing this information with me, he probably wouldn’t be happy. I decide to change the subject. “Want to meet and go to the Christmas Tree Lighting together tonight?”
“Yes please! I think Dominick is going to go too. Have you met him yet?”
“I haven’t, but I’ve heard much about him.”
Brent has told me that Dominick is his best friend here in Winterberry and Nora calls him Uncle D. I’m surprised I haven’t run into him yet or seen him at the inn but I’m excited to meet him tonight. “I’m excited to meet him.”
“Yeah, an interesting one. I’ll go put your order in.”
While I wait, I people-watch out the window. I love seeing what people are wearing, what they’re doing, and what’s going on in town.
From my position by the window, I can see the big gazebo in the center of the park, and there are a few residents setting it up for tonight’s event. It’s being adorned with strings of lights, a large gold star, and decorative presents.
It is going to look beautiful all lit up.
After a few minutes, Sally brings me my lunch. I eat leisurely while I chat with diners and watch the park get decorated.
“Sally, that was so delicious,” I tell her as she comes back to clear my plate. “I don’t know what you put in that sandwich, but I can’t get enough. You may need to roll me out of here. I’m going to head over to Ben’s to check on my car baby. I’ll see you tonight!”
“I’m so glad you came in. See you tonight!”
Afterward, I head toward Ben’s shop. Luckily, it isn’t a far walk so I make it there before I’m completely frozen. December in Vermont is no joke.
I open the door to the shop, and the smell of oil and grease hits me in the face.
I hear his gruff voice before I see him, singing to Jingle Bell Rock behind the counter.
“Hi Ben!” I say. “You have the voice of an angel.”
“Oh why thank you.” He takes a bow. “I’m guessing you aren’t here to hear me sing.”
“As much as I adore your singing voice, I was at Sally’s for lunch and thought I would stop in while I was out and check on my baby.”
“Actually, I was hoping I would run into you at the Christmas Tree Lighting. I should have everything I need in the next few days and as soon as I do, I will get it fixed so you can get home. I’m so sorry it has taken so long. This nonstop snow has been slowing everything down.”
As soon as the words are out of his mouth, my stomach drops. “Oh great… That's great news, Ben.” I fake excitement.
I know I need to get home and get ready to film my next movie, but I’m not ready.
