CHAPTER 21
The inn felt wrong without Pop in it. Kate stood in the kitchen at five in the morning, having given up on sleep, and listened to the unnatural quiet. No footsteps overhead. No confused wandering. No one to check on.
She made coffee out of habit, then realized she'd made a full pot when she only needed one cup. Pop always wanted coffee first thing, even when he couldn't remember how to drink it.
“You're up early,” Amy said from the doorway.
Kate jumped. “What are you doing here? Pop's not...”
“I know. But my schedule still has me here for two more weeks. My boss likes it when I stay a bit longer to help with the transition. Sometimes it’s those left behind who need the most care.” Amy poured herself coffee. “How was the visit yesterday?”
“He didn't know me half the time.”
“That's normal. New environment increases confusion initially.”
“Define normal.”
Amy sat at the table, in Pop's usual spot. Kate wanted to tell her to move but bit her tongue.
“Have you thought about what you'll do now?” Amy asked. “With your days?”
“Run the inn. Same as always.”
“But without the constant worrying. That's a big adjustment.”
Kate didn't want to talk about adjustments. She wanted Pop to shuffle in, confused but present. Instead, she had this empty kitchen and too much coffee and Amy sitting in the wrong chair.
Her chest tightened suddenly, her heart raced. The room felt too small, the air too thin. Kate gripped the counter, trying to breathe normally.
“Kate?” Amy was beside her instantly, professional concern in her voice. “Are you having a panic attack?”
“I'm fine.”
“You're not. Sit down. Breathe slowly.”
Kate let Amy guide her to a chair and focused on her breathing.
“In for four, hold for four, out for four,” Amy repeated several times.
The tightness eased gradually, leaving Kate shaky and embarrassed.
“First one?” Amy asked.
“I don't usually have panic attacks.”
“You do now. It's common for caregivers after their role changes. You've been in crisis mode for years. Your body doesn't know how to not be on high alert.”
Before Kate could respond, Dani appeared, already dressed and styled despite the early hour.
“I have an idea,” Dani announced, then noticed Kate's face. “What's wrong?”
“Nothing. What idea?”
Dani hesitated, then forged ahead. “I want to create a proper events program for the inn. Weddings, retreats, corporate gatherings. I've been researching all week.”
“We're not an events venue.”
“We could be. With the renovations, we'll have beautiful spaces. I've already had inquiries.”
