“I think you’re going to like it. You’ve been asking for it for years.”
I rack my brain trying to think what he might be talking about. He does go to antique sales occasionally. Maybe he found one of the books on my list of wants. Most of them are pretty hard to find, especially since I want them to be in decent shape. That part makes it especially difficult for the early editions. Most of them have been, I’d say,well-lovedby their previous owners.
“It’s me.”
“What?”
“Me!” he repeats. Am I the one not making sense? It’s possible, given the whirlwind of the last week. “I’m coming to Sleighbell Springs.”
“What? When?” I’ve told Russ so much about this place that it’s hard to believe he hasn’t been here. When we chat, he knows everyone who lives in town. It’s almost like he’s here with me.
Almost.
“I get in on Sunday afternoon. Any chance you can pick me up at the airport? Or let Chase borrow your car if you need to be at the store.”
Sunday? That’s two days away. Chase and I haven’t really defined anything in our relationship at this point, other than the fact that we’re dating. I haven’t pushed him either. This is still temporary for him. I love it here. Love being part of this town. Love my bookstore. Sleighbell Springs in my life.
Chase’s is out there somewhere else. He might not know where he’s going next, but he’s sure there is a next thing. As much as I want him here, where we can make a real go of things, I also want him to be happy. Could a place like Sleighbell Springs ever offer enough for him?
“Did I lose you?”
“Sorry, I was just thinking. Yeah, we can pick you up. I mean, one of us will pick you up.”
“Okay, just let me know. I’ll be on the lookout for your car. I can stay with you, right?”
Technically? Yes. Now that the water’s back on at my house, there’s no reason not to let him use the guest room. There are still areas of my place that look like a construction zone, but they’re mostly out of sight.
I’ve gotten used to having Chase next to me at night. Sneaking around behind Russ’s back will be nearly impossible. And there’s no good reason why I would sleep in the apartment when my bedroom is in perfect working order.
Ugh. I’ve been begging him to come here for years. Why did he pick the one time I need him to stay away?
“Nix?!”
“Sorry.”
“Do you have customers? I can call back later.”
“No, it’s fine. I’m just a little tired. Of course, you can stay with me. I’ll fix up the guest room for you.”
“Great. I’ll see you soon.”
“I can’t wait.” Two days. Two days until Chase’s brother is here. Two days until my best friend in the whole world arrives.
My mind is still reeling from the conversation when Chase comes barreling through the front door, holding his cell phone high over his head. “Did you know about this? That Russ is coming here? On Sunday?” His voice gets higher with every sentence.
“He just called a few minutes ago.” I point toward the cell phone on the counter.
Chase’s face goes from bright red to practically white.
“Hey, let’s sit down.” I practically run around the counter to guide him to a chair. If he passes out, there’s no way I’ll be able to get him back up. “Put your head between your knees.” I’m not sure what that’s supposed to do, but I’ve seen it on TV. “Take a few slow breaths for me.”
Chase does as instructed while I rub his back. “It’s a shock to me, too. But it’s going to be okay.”
“What will we say to him?” Chase’s voice is muffled in this position, but I can work out what he’s asking.
“We can tell him whatever you’re comfortable with. Or nothing at all. He doesn’t have to know anything.”
Chase sits up straight. A little of his color has returned, which must be a good sign. “I’m not embarrassed.”
