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I couldn’t stop thinkingabout Dad, about how much pain he must be in from the cancer. I didn’t even know he was sick. Cancer is evil—fucking evil.
“Earth to Hailey!” Scarlett snaps her fingers in my face.
“I’m sorry,” I apologize and shake my head. I rest my back against the foot of her bed. “I honestly have no words about anything right now.”
Scar lays her dress down on the bed and sits crisscross in front of me. “Honey, I love you so much. I’m here for you. And I hate that this is happening. He’s like a father to me, too.” She reaches out and pulls me into a hug.
Crying out all of the pain into her shoulder, the tears fall, and I sound like I swallowed a squeaky toy, but I don’t care. I need this. She hugs me tighter, and I can feel her breathing tighten up. She’s also beginning to cry. Her crying makes me cry harder. Eventually, I pull away and look at her. Her blue eyes are bloodshot, probably just as much as mine. She wipes her face, and I do the same.
“Let’s just forget about this. And go to work,” she suggests.
I nod my head in agreement, then grab my purse and stand up.
CHAPTEREIGHT
This evening isgame night at the café. Everyone comes in and plays card games or board games. It’s our small town’s tradition. The whole town seems to be here tonight, and it’s not even six yet. The night bears a cooler breeze than usual, and a storm is on the horizon. I’ve handed over the hosting reins to Scarlett this time. Tomorrow night is Zack’s party, a decision I’m still wavering on. If I don’t try to have some fun, I will probably just end up sitting in a corner, drowning in my thoughts. I just have to make it through today. Take it one day at a time.
Music pours from the speakers, infusing the room with an infectious energy. The tables are set with an array of board games, a variety at each table—chess, Sorry, Monopoly, and more—offering choices for everyone. The rule is simple: play something to partake in game night. And if you’re done with one game, there’s always another waiting for you.
“Alrighty, everyone, listen up!” Scarlett’s voice commands attention as she stands atop the counter. “We’re switching things up tonight,” she says, pulling out a wad of cash. “The first table to conquer all five board games wins a $500 prize and free dinners for the rest of the summer!”
The crowd erupts in cheers and applause, and I chuckle, shaking my head with a fond smile.
“LET’S GO!” Scarlett’s rallying cry ignites a frenzy of activity. Game choices are swiftly made, tables fill with players, and boards are set for action.
“We’ve never offered a reward before,” I say.
“Yeah, but it’s all about keeping the business thriving. More money, honey,” Scarlett quips.
Laughing, I move behind the counter, wiping it down to prepare for tonight’s rush. As I am finishing up, the doorbell’s chime interrupts my focus, and I look up to find Eric entering with a small group.
“Hey, Hailey, room for three tonight?” His voice sparks a smile onto my lips.
“Absolutely, follow me.” I grab three menus before heading to the dining area. I lay the menus on the table in the booth and take out my pen and pocket notebook while they are getting seated.
“What can I get y’all started with?” I ask.
“I’ll have a Sprite,” Eric says.
“Just coffee, no sugar,” an older man says.
“Sprite for me as well, please,” a younger guy chimes in.
“I’ll get right on it.” I note down the orders before making my way to the kitchen. I grab two tall glasses and a mug, then fill each with the requested beverages and return to the table.
“Here you go, folks. Have you decided on food yet?” I ask.
“We’re good with drinks for the night,” Eric replies, his eyes lifting to meet mine, his smile ever so charming. With a casual sweep of his hand, he brushes his hair back.
I stand there for a moment, caught in his gaze, feeling a flutter in my chest that I can’t quite explain. “Alright then, just let me know if you change your mind,” I say, my voice slightly breathless as I tear my attention away to head back behind the counter.
As I busy myself with some tasks, double-checking the inventory, the lights flicker for a second before plunging the room into darkness. Murmurs and surprised gasps fill the air, and then, amidst the laughter, I hear Eric’s voice.
“Well, it looks like we’re in for a little adventure,” he quips in a playful tone, his comforting words weaving through the dark like a thread.
“Yeah, game night just got a whole new level of challenge,” I reply, my voice carrying amusement and curiosity.
