She and Elle hadn’t been super close, but whenever she came in for coffee, conversation was easy between the two of them.
When they separated, Sadie studied the other woman’s features. “I heard about Macy. I’m sorry.”
The corners of Elle’s lips turned down. “Thanks. It was a huge shock, and honestly, I’m still recovering from her loss.”
Macy and Elle had run the café together until a few months ago, when her friend had been murdered right there in the mountains. Sadie’s grandmother had told her the killer was identified and wasn’t around anymore, but justice for her murder didn’t bring Macy back.
“Are you doing okay?” Sadie asked.
Elle lifted a shoulder. “As well as I can be. I’ve hired another girl, but it’s been…hard. I turn to her expecting to see Macy.”
“I’m so sorry.”
“Thanks. On a lighter note…we should catch up some time.”
“I’d love that. I’ve still got your number. I’ll text.”
“Great. Now, what can I get you? Your usual almond cappuccino, no sugar?”
“You have a good memory.”
Elle grinned. “It’s what I do. I’ll throw in one of those macarons you like.”
“Oh my gosh, you’re a godsend.”
As Elle got started on the coffee, Sadie moved over to a table. She’d just sat when her phone vibrated with a text.
Scott: Come on, Sadie. Please talk to me. Let’s work this out.
She clicked out of the text. She was sure his mother had already called and let him know exactly what had transpired between them.
Her phone rang and she rolled her eyes, immediately canceling Scott’s call. A few seconds later it rang again.
Good God.
She hit the answer button. “Stop calling me!”
There was a short pause before he spoke. “You answered.”
“Yeah, because you’re harassing me.”
“Wait, don’t hang up! Please. I want to talk about us—”
“There is no us. You made sure of that.”
“Sadie—”
“Stop contacting me and leave me alone.”
She’d just hung up when the door to the café opened, and Eastern and Avery stepped inside.
“One marshmallow.”
“Two,” Avery said firmly.
Eastern shook his head, a smile trying to break through as they stepped onto the deck. He had a rare Saturday off work, so he’d brought Avery up to the mountains. They’d been his backyard as a kid, and he’d loved them, so he took her hiking every chance he got. Of course, it was a bonus that Uncle Kay was here. He’d joined them for the first half of their trek before being called away. While her uncle was with them, Avery had done less walking and spent more time on Kayden’s shoulders.
“Fine, two,” Eastern finally agreed.
