“Fell asleep soon after I texted you. Hopefully whatever’s making her cranky works itself out while she naps.”
“Aww. Poor girl.” Jessa walked to the kitchen and dropped the bag on the counter. “I got you a grilled chicken club with French fries. Is that good?”
The most expensive sandwich, but oh so delicious. “That’s perfect. Thank you.” Biting down on her lip, she dug in her purse and grabbed a ten. “Here you go.”
Jessa pushed it away. “I told you it’s my treat.”
“You’ve done too much already.”
“Whatever.” Jessa rolled her eyes. “You’re doing me a favor. Landon had a weekend run, and I haven’t spent a day alone in our house yet. I was really dreading it, so lunch with you keeps me busy.”
“A flimsy excuse, but thank you.” She slid the money in her pocket. “Landon is nice. Whenever he’s around you, you smile more.”
“He’s a keeper.” Her sister continued unloading the bag. “I’m glad you finally got to meet him.”
“Me too.” She stopped herself from apologizing again for missing the wedding. Jessa had freely offered forgiveness, and Trixie was trying hard to accept it.
“Hey, the diner is hiring. I saw the sign while I was there.”
“Really? Who left?”
Jessa’s grin stretched ear to ear. “Tilly.”
“No way.” Her eyes widened. “Who’d she find that wasn’t scared off by her forwardness?”
“A realtor from New Jersey. Apparently they met online, but the few people from here who’ve met him all seem impressed. They say he’s good for her.”
“Interesting.” She grabbed the black takeout tray from the counter. “I wish them the best. I always did like Tilly even if she came off a little brash.”
“She has a good heart.” Jessa handed her a Styrofoam cup. “It’s tea, and there are packets of sugar in the bag.”
“Thanks.” She carried her food to the table and sat down.
Jessa followed a second later and opened the container. “I’m so hungry. I overslept this morning and had just gotten out of the shower when you sent that message.”
“Oversleep? What’s that?”
“Alice is a good sleeper, though, isn’t she?”
“Most of the time, but my days of sleeping in are over for now.” On instinct, she checked the monitor. “However, she is a great napper.”
Jessa wiggled her brows. “She is her mother’s daughter.”
“Hey, naps are wonderful things.”
Their conversation drifted off while they ate. Trixie savored each bite, knowing she couldn’t afford the meal on her own. The seasoned fries dipped in ketchup complemented the sandwich. She gathered up the trash when the doorbell rang.
“Expecting anyone?” Jessa glanced in the direction of the front door.
“No, and Mom didn’t mention anything.” She held a breath, waiting to see if it woke up Alice but her daughter didn’t make a peep. She rushed to the door before whoever it was could press the doorbell again.
A peek through the peephole invoked a groan. What didhewant? She saw him lift his hand to the bell, and she quickly opened the door to stop him. “Can I help you?”
“Hi, to you too.”
So her tone hadn’t been very welcoming. Could anyone blame her? “Hi.”
He held out a package. “I come with a peace offering.”
