“Did you forget that my dad let me get arrested for a crime he committed? Pretty sure the entire town of Nashville is aware of my issues with my father,” Scarlett met her eyes in challenge.
Drew could remember the drama within the Lossett family from a few years ago. The Lossetts were Nashville royalty and everything surrounding the case had been a huge media story.
“I remember,” Drew admitted softly.
“I’m sorry,” Drew added.
“Well, let’s just say I understand what it’s like not to want your dad in your life. The feelings surrounding that can be complex. Which is my way of saying you should do whatever is best for you. Hopefully, you can let Brooke back in and she can support you. Dealing with that sort of thing is difficult on your own.”
“Do you think Brooke has it in her to support me? I mean to really support me, whatever feels right to me.”
“Only Brooke can answer that.”
Drew finished up the last line for Scarlett’s tattoo. She rose from the chair and admired her new tattoo.
“Hey, that wasn’t bad at all,” Scarlett declared.
“I told you I was good,” Drew shot Scarlett a wink.
“You did,” Scarlett smiled.
“Thanks for sharing your insights,” Drew said, meeting the woman’s eyes. Scarlett simply returned the smile before walking off and allowing Vera to take her spot.
“Well, this has certainly been an exciting day.” Vera’s tone was lively.
“I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself. I’ve been having fun too,” Drew grinned.
She was having a good time. Vera and company had made for a lively crew. Dreew’s eyes lifted and found their way to Brooke’s store. She could just make out Brooke’s figure watching them through the glass. Drew’s heart startled. The longing that was a constant dull ache in her heart grew sharper.
“Trouble in paradise?” Vera asked following Drew’s gaze over to where Brooke still stood.
“Something like that,” Drew admitted.
“Was it you or her?” Vera asked.
“Excuse me?”
“Who started the fight?”
“Me, I think. Not that it matters. I don’t know if we can be what each other needs,” Drew’s voice trembled.
“Take it from someone who is basically surrounded by lesbians on a daily basis. Your love is probably stronger than you’re giving it credit for.”
Drew felt a warming smile spread across her lips.
“Maybe. But what if we still hurt each other?” Drew asked.
Vera allowed a loud laugh to come through. Drew stared at her a little shaken.
“I apologize. It’s just that, of course, you’ll hurt each other. Loving one another doesn’t mean you won’t sometimes hurt each other. Love is more about how eager you are to repair the damage.”
Drew’s mind instantly remembered the rose tea in her cupboard. She knew exactly what she wanted to do. Vera patted her arm as if she could see the inner workings of Drew’s mind. Drew wasn’t convinced that Vera couldn’t read minds, she certainly seemed intuitive enough.
“Thank you. You know you give really good advice,” Drew smiled.
“Anytime, Drew. I’ve been told that a time or two,” Vera chuckled.
The bell above the door chimed signaling a new customer. Drew turned her head towards the door. Whoever it was, they would have to wait for another day. Drew’s mouth was partially open when she saw who standing at the front of her shop. Frank stood rather nervously by the front door. He wore faded jeans and a black t-shirt. Drew’s shock must have shown because Vera gave her arm another pat.
