“You should try that new Coffee shop.” He winks at me as he hops out of the truck onto the busy sidewalk.
My gaze skirts to the other side of the street where I see the Coffee Loft. It’s the breath of fresh air I need. I tap my chin only one time before I give into the temptation. “I think I want to dothat. Do you mind if I run over and grab a coffee and meet you back here for pizza? You can order, and I’ll be right in.”
“I don’t have a problem with that.” Dad wobbles forward to the pizzeria.
Dodging traffic, I dart out as soon as it’s clear, and I make it across the street in a few seconds flat. As always, I slow my steps right as I pass through the front door, and deep roasted cinnamon wafts under my nose. It’s impossible to not feel rejuvenated when I’m in this place. The lady working behind the counter smiles in full recognition and waves. “Welcome to the Coffee Loft. What can I grab you today?”
With so many options, it’s impossible to choose. “What flavor pairs well with three hours of sleep and a near-death driving situation?”
“May I suggest the French Press?” Her lashes bat as she looks back at the man behind her who rolls his eyes at her. I suspect some serious flirtation and it puts a smile on my face.
“That sounds perfect. Lofty size, please.”
While she gets busy scooping coffee into the French press, she starts small talk. “Is the sun still shining out there?”
“A little bit.” I nod, adding, “Starting to get windy though, but considering it’s fall, I’m happy.”
“Right? We never have this much sunshine in November.” She pours hot water in the French press, and sets it aside on the counter before returning to the tablet. “Is that everything, or do you need a spiced chai for North?” She grins slyly at me, winking.
“I ah, don’t know. I suppose I can grab one, and he can heat it up later. I haven’t talked to him yet today.” My cheeks burn as I ramble. I hadn’t expected people to assume we were together, but after recalling how we sat practically cuddling in the booth last night, I can understand why she thought that. “Was he here yet?”
“No.” She shakes her head back and forth. “Normally, he stops in after his morning run on Saturdays, but no sign of him today. That’s why I thought you were grabbing for both of you.”
“Well.” I open my purse, and dig for my debit card, excitement budding in my gut. I can’t wait to be able to surprise him with his ‘coffee’ order. “You better add a spiced chai to my order, please.”
“You bet.” She punches in the second order. “Spiced chai coming right up!”
I swipe, and quickly stow my card, and while she’s working on North’s drink, I scroll my phone. No text messages from him. He’d been texting me almost every morning since we cleaned the garage. But not today.
For a guy who clings to his routines, it seems odd he’s so off schedule.
The barista slides a drink carrier with the two drinks across the bar. “I put stoppers in them, so they stay warm.”
“Thank you.” I take the carrier by the handle and head out, noting it’s only been about ten minutes. Dad usually spends at least thirty minutes talking before he remembers he’s actually there to eat, he likely hasn’t even ordered yet.
I push open the heavy door, taking a big stride out, hoping to rush back across the street in record time, when I nearly run smack into someone. “Pardon me.” I startle, trying to steady my drink carrier. Thanks to the stoppers every drop is spared. I smile and raise my gaze.
My stomach instantly knots, and I squeak out, “Rocco. Hi.”
“Hey, lil sis.” His face is stilled, not wavering into even the tiniest smile. It’s been months, if not even a year or two since I’ve seen him, but he has his shaved head, which highlights his oversized nose. It’s identical to dad’s nose, but oddly while it makes Dad look endearing, it gives Rocco’s face a disproportionate effect. Cloaked in a long trench coat that stops above his shiny black shoes, he’s definitely dressed for business.
I just can’t tell if it’s legal business or not.
“H-how are you?”
“I’m fantastic.” With precisely measured words, he doesn’t break direct eye contact. “I actually just completed the final steps to run for Senate.”
Senate? Boy, that really is where all the crooks go.
Biting my lips, I offer nothing. But running for Senate doesn’t surprise me. He’s always doing everything to gain more power and control.
“I didn’t realize you were in town.” He offers after the silence drags out. “It’s been a while.”
“It’s been a looong time.” I nod, feeling as if I’m shrinking in size right in the middle of the sidewalk.
“How have you been?” Pulling his hands out of his pockets, he extends his arms wide, and waves me forward for a hug.
It feels off.
