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The through shook him, but he was almost certain he wanted to stay in Pineville. As his mom said, he and Roni had been young, and because of that, they’d lost what could have been great. They hadn’t had the maturity or the know-how to hold it together.
But they did now.
They could be even better than before. Roni might think they were in competition to raise funds for Jenni’s rescue, but in actuality, he was playing this game to win back her heart.
And this was one game he wasn’t going to lose.
He went to bed with a smile on his face, and hope in his heart. Yes, he wanted her back, as soon as the decision was made he fell into a deep sleep.
The next evening, Owen arrived and helped him set up the camera and lights in the corner next to the Christmas tree. Since they hadn’t held the tree trimming party yet, he threw up a couple strands of garland so the tree wouldn’t look so bare.
Brianna came to help collect the money, and Jenni showed up with a few rescue dogs for anyone who wanted a picture with one. She put out a big jar for donations, and they brought some of Candy’s treats to sell.
“Thanks, guys. I really appreciate all your help,” Jimmy said as he made a place on the counter for the baked goods.
Jenni fixed him with a serious look in her eyes. “Just remember, this is for my animals, not to help you beat my sister.”
He laughed and gave her a good-natured nudge. “What happened to the braces and pigtails?”
“You mean the ones you used to pull?” she asked with a huge grin.
“Yep. I miss those. In fact, I’ve missed all of you.”
“Well, then maybe you should stick around for a while,” Owen said.
Jimmy grinned. “I’m thinking about it. A lot.”
“Just don’t break my sister’s heart again, or you’ll have to answer to me,” Jenni tapped her chest and narrowed her eyes.
“I won’t. I swear,” he said, holding up his right hand.
The twist of her lips told him how much she believed that, but she should. He was dead serious.
People started coming in, and soon the coffee shop was packed. Business had never been better as he took one picture after another. His mother was thrilled but exhausted. She’d been there since six a.m. that morning and her voice was thin and almost distant as she talked to the customers.
He walked up behind her and rested his hand on her arm. “Mom, go home. We can manage everything.”
The grateful look in her eyes filled him with guilt. “Are you sure?”
“I’m very sure. I have a lot of help.” He pointed to Owen, Brianna, and Jenni.
“Okay, thanks. This really was a good idea. We did great tonight. Thank you for this.”
He smiled and hugged her. They both knew he hadn’t done it for the family, but for Roni. “I’ll be home soon.”
She nodded and left.
Before the evening was over, Roni and Candy walked through the door.
“Oh, look who is here,” he said, pleased to see them. “I thought you were making Christmas ornaments tonight?”
“We were,” Roni said. “Though, not too many people came. I think events back to back was too many. Looks like you’re doing well.”
“We are,” Brianna said, smiling. “You wouldn’t believe how much money we’ve made.”
“I’m not sure I want to know,” Roni grumbled.
Jimmy grinned. “Any idea what you’re going to cook for me?”
