“But—”
“In all the years I’ve known you, I’m not sure you’ve ever once invited someone into a shower. Not even when you’redatingthe guy.” She smiles but is still serious. “Throw out the planner. Take a risk.”
It’s hard to hear but I know she’s on to something.
The thing is, I don’t know if I can.
Chapter Thirty-Four
BEFORE VIVIAN AND I start our day, I send Stella a meeting update. Instead of getting into details, I say Royce and I ran out of time and we’re meeting again tomorrow. It’s not a lie. I intentionally leave out the weird vibes because I’m not sure how I’d describe them.
I forward a few emails that someone else on my team can take care of. Other than that, there is nothing urgent here or waiting for me at the office. I confirm my out of office email auto-reply is on and close my laptop. Still a weird feeling, leaving work behind, but my skin isn’t as prickly today.
Choosing not to stress about work is tough, but today is all about Viv and I. Thanks to Bea, we have a day packed full of fun and I can’t wait.
First stop is the local indie bookstore. Bonus—said bookstore is right next to a bakery.
How do bookstores consistently feel so magical? It’s like they all have this energy which makes your skin buzz and immediately better your mood. I love the idea of being surrounded by words, ideas, characters, and even some happily-ever-afters.
Windows line the front and back of the space, flooding it with natural light. The floors are a dark which highlight the bookshelves and tables.
Immediately, I’m looking for the romance section while Viv is already walking towards horror. Our love for books is equal but on different sides of the spectrum.
Scattered throughout the shelves are handwritten notes indicating staff picks. I breathe in deep and am hit with the smell of pages, covers, and a hint of sugar from the bakery next store.
You’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but sometimes I can’t help it. Is there anything better than browsing new books, letting a spine pull you in or seeing the most gorgeous cover?
After smiling at covers, reading blurbs, and exhibiting a strong amount of self-control, I decide on three books. Viv and I compare after we check out and while I’m convinced there’s nothing better than a swoony love story, she holds books with blood on the front.
“Books, bakery, best friends. All while being in this quaint small town? Seems like we’re starring in our very own Hallmark movie,” Viv says as we walk into the bakery. She fakes gagging. “But, I fucking love it!” Her smile is massive and she catches me off guard.
I laugh way too loud in the small bakery. The woman behind the counter does something unspeakable—she smiles back at us and winks. Oh, the small town magic I’ve read about but haven’t experienced until right now.
My mouth watered the second we stepped foot in here. The glass case—miraculously not covered in fingerprints—is lined with sweet and savory croissants, different breads, muffins, and an impressive collection of sugar cookies. The type of cookies with fluffy frosting piped into the cutest designs.
We ordered coffee and too many pastries. According to Chelsea, who insists we call her Chels, there’s no such thing as too many. I only know thenames of a few of my favorite servers in the city and that’s because I tend to go to the same places.
The coffee is ridiculously good. We drank it black and could taste the notes of cinnamon and even chocolate. Viv and I both bought a bag to take home. We shared a croissant but saved the rest of the baked goods for later. I made sure to get an extra peanut butter scone for Holland and Slate to share.
The scheduled plans for today are a tarot card reading and candle making. Just enough structure for the two of us.
We may not be in Salem but we are definitely making the most of our time together.
I’ve always wanted to try a tarot card reading. Of all our plans for today, this might be what I’m most excited about.
Did I expect a wiry woman wearing a blue velvet cloak to do our reading? No. But I also didn’t expect the woman in front of us either. Jane’s younger than I expected—fresh-faced, and dressed comfortably in a flowing tunic, leggings, and flats. Her skin looks like it’s honestly glowing. I make a mental note to ask her about skincare if the opportunity presents itself.
The space slightly surprises me. It’s warm, dimly lit, and inviting. There are multiple places to sit. Each feels different enough to attract different people. Candles and crystals line shelves and ledges. It doesn’t feel chaotic at all—I get the sense everything has a place.
Since this is my first reading, Jane gets us situated. She offers up throw pillows and blankets—anything to make us more comfortable. It takes me a few tries to get comfortable, like the tarot virgin I am. She also pours each of us hot tea.
Viv, on the other hand, knows exactly what she wants. She feels like an extension of the space, with her energy, and familiarity. It shows this isn’t her first time.
“Tarot is all about seeking understanding where you are, in order toforecast a possible future. This future could be mere hours away or years.” Jane would make a killing with guided meditations or as an audiobook narrator. Her voice is soothing like a cup of hot coffee on a cold morning.
“What we see today is not set in stone and you always have the power to make other choices. We must not forget the power of free will,” she reminds me. “Please choose the deck that calls to you and knock on it three times.”
There’s a console table with a variety of decks—different colors, themes, and sizes. I choose the first one that catches my eye, trying to tap into that intuition.
