AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“So tough,” Cynthia agreed. “On one hand, I want to support local businesses like yours. On the other, we need the revenue and jobs. But I don’t want to sell our soul in the process.”
“Well, a little change isn’t always bad,” I offered gently. “As long as the heart and character of Pebble Point stay intact.”
Cynthia gave a sad little laugh. “You’re right. And that heart beats right here in your cafe, Zoe.”
I smiled, warmed by her words, as I slid the latte across the counter. Cynthia took it with another weary sigh, the weight of her responsibilities as a council member clearly weighing on her. But as she sipped her coffee, a hint of her usual spark returned.
“Thanks for listening,” she said. “And for making the best latte in town. No matter what happens, Pebble’s Brew will always be the cornerstone of this community.”
She headed out the door with a little more spring in her step, and I watched her go with a full heart.
I waved goodbye to Cynthia and then went about closing up the cafe for the day. As I wiped down the tables and stacked the chairs, my thoughts kept drifting back to our conversation.
This town meant everything to me. Pebble’s Brew was my legacy, my connection to Mom and Dad. If the Caleb’s company had their way, gleaming high-rises and chain stores could replace the quirky buildings and family-owned shops that made this place so special.
I sighed, feeling the weight of uncertainty pressing down on me. What would happen if I lost this battle? Did Pebble’s Brew get bulldozed to make way for a parking lot or office tower? The very thought made my chest tighten with anxiety.
After locking the front door, I sank into my favorite overstuffed armchair in the corner. My gaze drifted to the piano where Jamie and I had played as kids. If he took that cruise ship job, there’d be no more impromptu jam sessions to cheer me up after a long day. I’d miss his smile, his laugh, our deep connection. Just thinking about him being gone for a whole year brought an ache to my heart.
But I couldn’t ask Jamie to stay just for me. He had his own dreams to chase. I knew he struggled with the temptation of security that steady gigs offered versus his love for performing. All I could do was support him, no matter how much I’d miss my twin.
I rubbed my temples, emotionally drained. The day’s conversations swirled in my mind - Cynthia’s candid confessions and Jamie’s possible departure. It was all too much to process. But tomorrow was the town’s Summer Bazaar, and I actually had a day to myself, as Emily had convinced me to trust her to manage the cafe for the day. Maybe a day spent outside in the sun would help me relax?
Chapter 18
AfterdoublecheckingEmilywas coping after her first time opening Pebble’s Brew, Caleb suggested we spend the day together, both away from work.
The scents of fried dough and grilled meats enveloped me as we stepped into the lively chaos of the Pebble Point Summer Bazaar. Vibrant streamers fluttered overhead while vendors called out deals on everything from handmade jewelry to fresh produce.
Beside me, Caleb’s eyes darted around, taking in the explosion of color and sound.
“Come on,” I said, linking my arm through his. “Let’s see if we can find those super healthy maple bacon donuts.”
We made it fifty feet before a frantic voice cut through the din. “Maisie! Maisie, where are you?”
I spotted a frazzled woman tourist in a floral sundress, tears brimming in her eyes as she spun in circles next to the petting zoo. My chest tightened.
Caleb and I hurried over as the woman’s cries grew more desperate.
“Are you looking for your daughter? What does she like?” I asked gently. “We’ll help you find her.”
The woman sniffed, dabbing at her eyes with a crumpled tissue. “She’s four years old, with curly blonde hair. Wearing a blue shirt with a rainbow on it.” Her voice broke. “Please, you have to help me find my baby.”
I gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. “We will. Take a deep breath. Caleb and I won’t stop until Maisie is safe.”
Beside me, Caleb nodded. His jaw was set, eyes blazing with determination.
Caleb’s voice was steady and calm. “We’ll cover more ground if we split up. I’ll check the rides and game booths while you search the food stalls and craft tents.”
He gave the mother’s shoulder a comforting pat. “Stay here in case Maisie comes looking for you. We’ve got this.”
As Caleb strode off, I plunged into the bustling bazaar. Vendors hawked their wares, music blaring, but I could only focus on a little girl in a rainbow shirt. I wove through the crowd, scanning for any sign of blonde curls.
“Maisie!” I called out, craning my neck. No response.
I hurried on, descriptions of delectable treats barely registering as I combed each aisle. My phone buzzed with a text from Caleb - no luck yet. I fired back a quick reply, determination burning hotter.
Spotting a flash of blue, I lunged forward, only to find a teenager in a rainbow tee. With an apologetic wave, I pressed on, worry gnawing at my gut.
