Margot wagged a finger. “It’s your turn the next time you’re in town.”
That wouldn’t be for a while, but… “What about Flynn?”
“I’ve been trying to figure out who would make the best wife for a surgeon.” She sounded perplexed.
Garrett laughed, but she would soon realize what the entire family knew. Flynn might never find a woman who measured up to his exacting standards. “I’m sure you’ll come up with someone, eventually.”
“Oh, I will.” Margot motioned to the stairs. “Since you’re the first here, you can choose which guest room you want. Each has the door open and towels at the end of the bed. Pick whichever one appeals to you.”
“Callie mentioned this would be like staying in a B&B only with a doting innkeeper and three delicious meals a day.”
Margot brushed off his words before setting Angus on the floor. “My manager does a wonderful job at the quilt shop, so I’ve cut my hours. Having people around will be fun. Otherwise, this big house gets too quiet with just me, Sadie, and Angus.”
“Well, I appreciate it.”
“Do you have many plans while you’re here?”
“I have some work to do, but I came early in case Callie needed help.” Though the real reason he was there was to keep from losing his vacation. He’d accrued too much, even after spending two weeks in Silver Falls over the holidays.
“Your sister’s to-do list grows by the day.”
“Happy to lend a hand, especially since Flynn and Keaton won’t be here for a few more days.”
“There will be plenty for your brothers to do once they arrive.”
“If I know Callie and my mom, you’re right.” That reminded Garrett. “If you need anything while I’m here…”
“Now that you mention it.” Margot reached into her vest pocket and removed a piece of paper. “I’m making dinner for your family tonight. Would you mind picking up a few items so I can concentrate on cooking?”
“Sure.” His suitcase was in the way. “Let me put my bag upstairs, and then I’ll get whatever’s on your list.”
“Thank you.” Margot’s blue eyes twinkled. “I love that I’m gaining a niece and three more nephews. More people to run my errands.”
“That’s one way to look at it.”
“And more to buy Christmas presents for.”
He laughed. “That’s another.”
Garrett carried his suitcase to the second floor. He took the bedroom farthest from the bathroom, which had a queen-sized four-poster bed. Two towels, a hand towel, and washcloths sat on a beautiful quilt, most likely sewn by Margot.
As he changed into shorts and a T-shirt, a bird sang outside his window. The cheerful tune brought a smile to his face. He peered out, not seeing anything but branches and leaves in the tall maple tree. He hoped the bird came back.
Garrett returned downstairs. “What do you need me to get?”
Margot handed him the list and a large canvas tote bag. “There are a few stops, but I only need an item or two from each place, so if you feel like walking, you can.”
“I could use the exercise after the flight and drive.” As he read over the list, his gaze zeroed in on one line.
Two loaves of artisan bread from Lawson’s Bakery.
His breath hitched. An image of Taryn’s pretty smile and adorable dimples formed in his mind. He’d had a valid reason for not contacting her in January, but he was here for two weeks. Maybe they could reconnect.
“See something interesting?” Margot asked.
Garrett kept his expression neutral. Something he’d learned to do working in the DA’s office before striking out on his own. He didn’t want her to guess he’d been thinking about Taryn. “A few things.”
“Well, the oven timer is about to buzz. Off you go.”
