But I donotwant to help tear apart anything when I’m off shift. I want to go home—somewherequiet—elevate my swollen feet, and curl up with a glass of wine and my cat.
Still, I’ll do what she asks because I live in the house rent-free, and it’s the least I can do.
The thing is, my friends, June and Luna, along with the whole town really, have been nothing but welcoming and supportive since I arrived last fall, and I’ll do whatever it takes to show my gratitude.
Even if it means giving up my solitude for a little while.
“Hey, did you hear that we were able to finally get the insulation and drywall up in Luna’s inn?” June asks as I slide her basket of food over to her. “It actually looks like a dwelling now.”
“Luna mentioned it.” I grin and wipe my hands on my apron. “I’ve been working on renderings for the website, and I think I’m going to go over there one evening when you’re all finished so I can soak in the atmosphere. I need to get started on the paintings for the guest suites.”
“It’s so awesome that you’re doing the artwork,” June says around an onion ring. “It’s going to bekiller.”
“Luna’s come up with some fun themes for the suites, and I can’t wait to get started. I’m sorry, I might be working late. We had another girl call out.”
“It’s okay,” she says and bites into her burger. “I can swing back by later and pick you up.”
June’s been nice enough to drive me to and from work for each of my shifts. Annabelle’s house is a couple of miles outside of town, and although Icouldwalk, it’s been nice that I don’t have to.
I’m on my feet all day as it is.
“Honey, you need to go home,” Sunny says as I put in another order. “This is your third double shift in a row. I’ve got this covered until Willow gets here.”
“I don’t like leaving you alone when we’re busy,” I reply. “Yeah, we’re a diner, and these people are supposed to clean up after themselves, but most don’t. And we’re short-staffed. Not to mention, I can use the money.”
“It’s only one hour until Willow gets here. I’ve been working this job for more than twenty years, so trust me when I say, I’ve got this. Go rest up.”
I sigh, feeling the exhaustion in my bones. It really has been a long, busy week.
“Are you sure you don’t mind?”
“Go. And take tomorrow off, too. We’ll have plenty of help.”
“A day off?” I blink at her. “What shall I do with all that free time?”
“Smartass.” She laughs and shakes her head. “I sure do like you.”
I hurry back to the break room to grab my purse from my locker and then rush back out to June with visions of an early night dancing in my head.
There should be time for bathroom fixingandwine with my cat, Petunia.
“Let’s blow this joint,” I announce to June, who’s in the middle of a conversation with Tanner Hilleman.
My high school sweetheart.
The man that still haunts my dreams.
He looks my way, his green eyes dancing as he takes me in, and a slow smile spreads over his impossibly gorgeous mouth.
And I remember vividly what the man is capable of doing with that mouth.
Clearing my throat, I offer him a smile, then tap June’s shoulder.
“Ready?” I ask her. “I’ve been sprung a little early.”
“Sure, but first, I’d like to chat for a few minutes with Tanner. He’s telling me about how his aunt down in Newport is having her kitchen redone, and it’s been a total disaster.”
My heart sinks, but I do my best to keep my smile in place. I justreallywant to go home. And while Tanner and I have an amicable relationship, it’s still uncomfortable to be around him for very long.