“Do you think I am, Ripley?”
“I’m definitely getting that impression. But you’re not allergic to sunlight. Hmm.”
I roll my eyes, but I’m smiling as I shift back to the practical. “Tomorrow, the crew comes. That’s when things will start to get more hectic. It’ll be more important?—”
“I know. I get why it’s important to have you,” she says, mimicking my serious tone.
I’d like to have her.
“You’re just saying that because you can’t shake me,” I tease.
She arches an eyebrow. “I can’t?”
Fuck. I almost forgot who I was dealing with. I drag a hand down my face. “What have I done?” I mutter.
When I look up, she sure looks like she’ll be having the last laugh. “I guess we’ll see.”
I sure will. But I’ll rise to the challenge. “Then, I can’t wait to see how you’re going to try to shake me tomorrow.”
Ripley’s smile is too damn pleased. “It is on.”
18
THE TOILET PAPER FAIRY
RIPLEY
Do I have a lot to do at the farm?
You bet.
Am I going to get it all done?
No problem.
But am I still going to find new ways to drive Banks crazy?
Of course I am. A challenge is a challenge is a challenge.
After I walk the dog (with Banks), do the Saturday-morning chores (with Banks), hop on my computer in my makeshift office on the living room couch in the farmhouse to pay some invoices, review production plans, and check in with the stores around the area that carry our lavender oils, soaps, sachets, lotions, and potions (without Banks, who’s presumably skulking around the lavender maze, checking for hidden cameras in its coils and twists of hedges), I grab my phone. Make an appointment for this afternoon. Then, I text my girls as I trot upstairs to grab the laundry.
Ripley: Guess who has a plan to drive her bodyguard crazy?
Then, I tell them about the plan and the appointment I made. But Chloe’s not interested in my evil genius, evidently.
Chloe: Um, can we hear more about the hot bodyguard instead of your plans?
Bridget: As in, where can I get one?
Chloe: What she said!
Bridget: Honestly, all innkeepers should henceforth have bodyguards. Let’s make it a new town ordinance.
Chloe: I’d be all over that vote. Solidarity!
Ripley: Excuse me, can I get a word in edgewise?
Chloe: Better text faster, girl.
