Grace saw her point, but weekends were all hands on deck.
“Oh, wait,” Molly said. “This weekend we have that family reunion. It’s going to be a zoo. Maybe the next weekend?”
Grace saw that little house slipping right through her fingers. “I don’t think we should make them wait that long. What if they find someplace else in the meantime? If you’re not free Wednesday, Levi or I can show them around.”
Molly bit her lip. “No, no. It’s fine. I can clear my schedule.”
“Are you sure?”
“Absolutely. Tell them it’s a go.”
Chapter Twenty-Four
Grace steadied the kayak, holding her breath as the middle-aged woman stepped into it. Her husband was already set to go and waiting just off the dock. They’d come in this evening after seeing her ad on the diner’s place mat.
Once the woman was settled in the cockpit, Grace relaxed.
“This is a nice one,” she said. “Very comfortable.”
“Glad you like it.” Grace handed her the paddle, failing to inform the woman that she was the first to take it out. “Have fun, you two. Just pull it up on the dock when you come back and stop up at the front desk.”
The two were already off, efficiently paddling their way past the end of the dock. Grace headed back up the slope of the inn’s lawn. These were the first customers in a week who’d come in off the street. Most of Grace’s business originated from the inn’s guests, which worried her a little. What would happen when she moved to her own location?
She caught sight of Wyatt coming toward her, hands tucked into his jeans pockets. What that man did to a black T-shirt should be considered illegal.
“There you are,” he said.
Her heart gave an errant beat as she realized he was looking forher, then she gave herself a mental shake. He probably needed extra towels or something.
“Sorry. I had to abandon the front desk. A hazard of running two businesses at once.”
When they met up he turned and walked alongside her. “Your face looks a lot better.”
“Gee, thanks.”
“I meant the bruising.”
“Relax, Romeo, I knew what you meant. Just wanted to see you squirm a little.”
He gave a wry huff, then shook his head.
She was relieved that after being apart since Saturday their camaraderie was still there. “Is there something you needed? Extra pillow? Afternoon snack? Guided tour of the lake?”
“That last one sounds intriguing. But I was actually hoping to enlist your help with that map at the library. I had a look at it today, but...”
“Yeah, it wouldn’t be very helpful if you don’t know the topography of the area.”
“I tried to check it out, but the librarian seemed to have mistaken it for the Holy Grail.”
“Hildy’s a little protective of the library’s assets. In her defense, it is a one-of-a kind map. But I could go with you tomorrow morning and have a look if you’re free then.”
“That’d be great. Thanks.”
They reached the back of the inn, and he opened the door for her. “I’ve been resting my shoulder, but I’d like to get back out there later this week.”
“We’re expecting good weather.” Grace wasn’t sure if he was just mentioning his plans in passing or hinting for help. They reached the front desk and she turned. “Well, if you need any help, I’m off Thursday.”
“I might do a little looking on my own till then, but I’d love your help if you’re willing.”
