“How is the faire going?”
“The faire has been a great help,” she explained.“It’s clearing the shelves for more inventory.By the way, what did you think of the inventory list I sent to you?”
“I didn’t know everything on it, but I like the new direction we’re going.If your handsome young advisor thinks this is the way to do things, I trust the two of you.”Her mom nodded.“I want to make sure you’re not overdoing it, honey.”
Overdoing it?
She was proud of the work she’d accomplished.It hadn’t been easy, and she was exhausted, but she'd done it.
She was running two bookshops at once.
Okay, so Ten Cents Books was just now getting back on its feet.And even though Bodice and Brawn wouldn't be a permanent venture, she was still damn proud of it.
Her phone chirped to life, letting her know of a new text.Her heart made a funny flip all the way into her throat, still hopeful to see Hawk’s nickname on her screen.Instead, it was the girl chat lighting up.
Pirate Queen Alex
Girls!I’m having a party at my house tonight.COME NOW!
Margo
Alex, I’m an educator.And a responsible adult.I need more notification than the night of.
Pirate Queen Alex
I have free booze.
Pirate Queen Alex
Like the good kind!Not the cheap shit undergrads drink.
Pirate Queen Alex
See?I’m a responsible adult as well.:)
Margo
Aleeex!I wish I could but it’s seven o’clock.I’m about to get in my pjs and watch Man vs.Woman.
Lilian’s eyes widened.Sure enough, it was seven.The fall weather meant it was getting darker earlier, throwing off her sense of time.These days, she was used to working late in the store.But her mom wasn’t.They probably needed to get home soon.
I’m going to have to pass, too.I’m closing up the bookstore now.
Margo
What!
Pirate Queen Alex
…or a parrrrtyyyy?!?
I’m good.
Pirate Queen Alex
Guys, come on!It’s going to be all faire folk.We hit the halfway mark!It’s our annual celebration!
Margo