“Not joking. I talked to my lawyer about it—not that I don’t trust you, I do—he agreed it’d be a good decision if you wanted to,” he says. “I know you’ve been going back and forth about actually wanting to work in what you went to college for, but I hope that maybe working with me and getting out of the city would be enough to make you want to own this place with me.”
“Yes, absolutely,” I scoff. “I would love to co-own with you… holy shit. Can I hug you?”
He laughs and opens his arms. “Come here, you big sap.”
“God forbid a man has emotions and likes to let his family know he loves them.” I laugh into Miles' shoulder when I give him a hug. “Dude we’re gonna be the male versions of Lorelai from Gilmore Girls.”
Breaking away from the hug, he looks at me confused. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“The second I feel a breeze in the air, we’re taking the day off and watching season one.”
Miles suggestedwe go out to eat as a celebratory dinner which is how we ended up a Ruby’s Diner.
Unfortunately my favorite waitress is off for the night. Miles told me I could invite her but I want her to find out I’m staying in a more special way.
“Hey, Bellwood Boys, what brings you in tonight?” Wren greets us as she sets down our menus.
I eye Miles wondering if I should tell Wren and he responds with a nod knowing exactly what I’m asking.
“What the hell was that look for?” Wren speaks before I can, looking between us both.
“Actually, I have some news,” I say. “I want to tell Maisie myself so please don’t say anything.”
“Okayyyy,” she draws out the word and eyes me suspiciously. “Whether or not I tell Maisie depends on what you’re about to tell me lover boy. Is it good news?”
“Oh yes, great news actually. I got a job,” I beam. “Here. In Ruby Lake.”
“Shut up!” She squeals. “Henry!” She leans over the booth and gives me a hug. “That’s so exciting! Where at?”
“He’s going to be the bookkeeper at the Inn,” Miles interjects. “Also you’re hugging the new co-owner of the Dew Drop Inn.”
“You’re joking!” Her smile is so bright it makes me excited to see Maisie’s reaction. “When are you going to tell Maisie? She’s been pretty distraught about you leaving.” Her eyes turn glassy as she pulls a napkin out of her apron and wipes a tear that’s forming.
“I’m hoping as soon as possible.” I clear my throat. “I’m wanting to ask her to be my girlfriend now that I know I’m staying, but I want to talk to Elaine first.”
“Henry,” Wren tears up more as she speaks. “I’m so happy you’re staying. You make my best friend so happy. I’ve never seen her shine as bright as she has since you showed up.”
“I really do love that girl.”
“You better be talking about my little girl there, Henry.” Elaine pops out of the kitchen and greets us.
“You need to tell her!” Wren beams.
“Tell me what?”
I open my mouth to speak but Wren beats me to it.
“You’re taking too long.” She waves her hands in the air, barely giving me a chance to breathe. She turns to Elaine and spews, “Henry is staying!”
“Tell me that’s true!” Elaine clutches her chest.
“Would I ever lie to you?”
“Son, I hope not. I’ll have a heart attack if you’re lying to me right now.” Her eyes start to swell with tears.
“Miles offered me a position at the Inn as the bookkeeper as well as co-owner.”
Elaine wipes a tear from her eye. “Henry, that makes me so happy. I was ready to do just about anything to keep you here, to keep you with my Maisie.” She walks to the other side of the booth and gives Miles a hug. “Thank you.”
