We exited the diner and halted on the sidewalk. Across the street, on the courthouse grounds, I spotted Scott. He stood with his arms crossed over his chest, listening grim-faced to his ex-girlfriend. Monica Morales was flinging her hands in wild gestures, speaking in rapid bursts, and tossing silky dark hair that flowed to her waist.
“Is the young man Scott Fuentes?”
“Yeah. He dated that girl for a couple of years. I think they split around Christmas. Maybe they’re getting back together again.”
“It’s what the young woman wants, but he does not.”
“You can hear them?”
“I can.”
“So your acute senses do benefit me.” With a satisfied laugh, I linked arms with him. “Let’s go home.”
Grant and I walked in from the garage and found my parents sitting at the bar.
Dad rose and held out his hand. “Hello, Grant. We haven’t seen you since January.”
“Yes, sir. It is a pleasure to meet again.” He nodded at my mother, who had remained seated. “Mrs. Tucker.”
Her brow creased in confusion. “I thought you had left the area.”
“I did, but I’ve returned to accept a new job opportunity.” He met my gaze, his eyebrow arched in question.
Yeah, I’d take over from here. “Grant and I might hang out some before he has to leave.”
My parents nodded, still curious but willing to drop it for now.
“So what are you two doing at home?”
Dad glanced at his watch. “We’re meeting a contractor.”
Who was on the shop schedule this afternoon? Maybe they’d partnered Beasley with one of our part-timers.
Grant and I continued to the patio. He disappeared into his residence while I crossed to the swing, enjoying the stillness of the afternoon and the smell of an approaching storm.
I’d made three wishes. They’d been hard but doable. Not only humanly possible but Sara-survivable. Three wishes that perfectly met my needs. Supernatural powers couldn’t have made them better.
If the League offered me benevolence in any other form, I would graciously but firmly decline. I’d rather have Grant than magic.
Status Report #3
Monday’s wish: Sorting of books
Dear Boss,
Sara initially resisted the idea of participating with the sorting of her brother’s books, but it took little persuasion to change her mind. I did, of course, arrange for her share of the workload to be as palatable as possible.
The task went smoothly. Perhaps she wouldn’t claim to have enjoyed the effort, but she maintained a quiet ease throughout the remainder of the time we spent together.
I recognized the young man, Scott Fuentes, whom I met through Kimberley. Her mother dated Scott’s father. I shall be curious to learn if that relationship remains intact. It also places Kimberley as another potential bond between Scott and Sara. I wonder if either of them has made that connection yet.
Regards,
Grant
Monday, 22 Jun
Dear Grant,
