That was the hook. Not an accusation, just concern.
“If it seems like anyone can come and go without her knowing,” she added quietly, “people draw their own conclusions.”
Roy’s jaw tightened. “That wouldn’t be fair.”
“No,” she agreed. “But fair doesn’t seem to matter much lately.”
She didn’t push. She didn’t have to.
Roy stared at the floor, jaw tight, already turning the problem over in his head. How could he fix it? How could he be the hero?
She stayed silent and let the moment stretch. Roy always needed to fix something. A way to prove he was capable. Someone to protect.
The farm might be protected now, but that didn’t mean Mia was.
She leaned back slightly, letting the idea take root. Some ideas only needed a nudge.
He’d get there on his own. He always did.
CHAPTER 42
Mia satby the window at LilyPad Confections on Wednesday morning watching people stroll past with coffee cups and shopping bags enjoying the sunny day. Laughter drifted in through the door every time it opened. For the first time in days, her chest felt light. Hopeful.
Finally, good news.
Autumn, Tessa and Lainey crowded around the small café table, the remnants of breakfast scattered between them.
“When does Caleb get back?” Autumn asked, leaning back in her chair.
“Tomorrow,” Mia said, unable to keep the smile out of her voice. “I can’t wait to tell him about the Ridgeway Foundation event.”
“That’s a big deal,” Tessa said. “Like, career-shifting big.”
Lainey lifted her coffee cup in a toast. “Here’s to things finally going your way.”
Mia laughed. “I needed this one.”
“You earned it,” Autumn said. “And once word gets out, we’ll hardly see you.”
“Not true. Balance is all about work and play,” Mia teased. “You’re stuck with me.”
“So,” Tessa said, wiggling her brows, “are you and Caleb serious?” She winked. “Asking for a friend.”
Mia grinned. She and Caleb had become quite serious in a short time. They hadn’t talked about the next big step, but he’d been hinting. Maybe tomorrow when he got back, they could talk.
“Who takes care of Ranger when he’s gone?” asked Autumn.
“Joy. She loves dogs but won’t have one in the house because of Liam’s uneasiness around dogs.”
“Oh. That’s right. I forgot,” said Lainey.
The bell over the door chimed.
“Speaking of small towns,” Lainey murmured.
Sabrina stepped inside, scanning the room before her gaze landed on them.
“Morning,” she said as she approached. “Looks like I missed the breakfast rush.”
