“All true.” Autumn slid into the booth and smiled. “So, Dani tells me you’re in charge of revitalizing the historic downtown.”
“Trying, anyhow,” Dani said with a laugh.
They were interrupted by Bree Gallagher, the owner of Sugar Crush. Tonight, her blue-black hair was in a high ponytail, andshe had on one of the retro outfits she favored: a pink, short-sleeved belted dress with strawberries on the skirt. She looked adorable.
“Oh, Lainey, I’m so glad you made it.”
“Sugar Crush is amazing,” Lainey replied. “When Brian told me about this place, he undersold it.”
“Brian?” asked Dani.
“Brian Gallagher owns Brick & Barrel. A gastropub that is going to open in the historic district,” Lainey replied, then hesitated. “Soon, I hope.”
That is, if she could stop whoever was trying to sabotage her project. Lainey sure wasn’t mentioning that. No need to dampen the festive spirit until she knew what was happening.
Bree handed over menus. “Drinks tonight are on me.”
“You don’t have to do that,” Lainey said.
Lainey glanced at the menu, which offered small bites like charcuterie boards, beef and caramelized onion crostini, rosemary flatbreads, goat cheese croquettes. They were paired with desserts and cocktails, and Lainey wanted one of each.
“It’s my way of saying thank you.” Bree turned to Autumn with a nod. “This lady here has photographed just about everything I’m offering, making them look better than they taste.”
Autumn laughed. “Not true. I have yet to be disappointed, especially with your chocolate martini.”
“Well,” Bree said with a wink. “Tonight’s specials are a Coconut Cream Martini and a Clementine Sparkler as well as whatever else is on the menu.”
Lainey groaned. “I’d have one of each, but I have to drive home. Let me try the Coconut Cream.”
“I’ll have the Sparkler,” said Dani.
“Make that two,” piped up Autumn.
“And what do you suggest pairing with our drinks?” Dani asked.
Bree grinned. “Well, with the Sparkler, the crostini with whipped ricotta and clementine slices. For the Coconut Cream,” Bree continued, turning to Lainey, “something richer, like the coconut shrimp skewers with a sweet chili glaze. Actually, everything on the menu is good.”
“Sold.” Lainey looked at the women. “Let’s pick a couple more appetizers but leave room for dessert.”
After Bree left with their orders, Lainey turned to Autumn. “I’d love to see your photographs sometime.”
“Oh, you should see the photos she took at the wellness event at Spiritual Bliss,” said Dani. “So, I originally met Autumn at Jack’s preschool. Her son, Mason, was also a student.”
Wow. Teacher, photographer, and mom. Lainey was impressed. That was a lot of hats to wear. Then again, most of the moms she met worked. Most were married. And somehow, they managed to fit everything in.
Now she just needed a hobby.
“I’d love to see what you’re planning for the historic district,” said Autumn. “It’s about time the city rejuvenated it.”
Lainey nodded. “It’s going to look great when it’s done. New stores, refurbished buildings, more people, excitement.”
“I’d love to do some professional shots,” Autumn said. “No charge. Revitalizing the area is something the community is interested in.”
“Wow, that’s generous. And unexpected,” said Lainey. “Let’s get together and set up a time in the next week or so.”
“Absolutely.”
Dani clapped softly. “This is so exciting. And it’s such a small world. Autumn’s son, Mason, is in another class, but they’re all fourth graders.”
