I suck air in through my teeth. “I’m going to be all tied up for thenext few months. Probably all year,” I amend. “I’ve started my own business—”
As soon as the words leave my mouth, I wish I could take them back. The last person that I need to know about my business, before it’s even off the ground and running, is her.
“You did? I didn’t see anything come through the chamber.”
I take a deep breath and shove down my irritation.
“Because it’s still in the creation process. When I’m ready, I’ll inform the chamber.”
It’s an ordinance that every business being operated within Knox Harbor has to register with the chamber. It’s just a way for them to siphon more money from locals and have their business in everyone else’s.
She claps her hands together. “Very good. I’ll eagerly await the details. You’ll have to tell me all about it sometime. Right now, I’m going to go have lunch and console my friend.” She glances over at their table. “We have a busy day ahead.”
“Good luck. I hope you find Esther’s granddaughter,” I say, and Ava parrots my words.
“Alyssa Mann, is that you?” I hear yet another voice I was hoping to avoid today. Mrs. Hampson shuffles over, smiling wide. “You have to come next door soon. I have some new dishes I think you would love.”
I internally cringe. The last time I bought anything from her shop, I ended up attached to a ghost that was less than friendly. He damn near ruined things between Nick and me before they even had a chance to begin.
“Another day. Ava’s leaving to go back to school.”
Ava looks at me crossly, knowing that it’s an excuse.
She doesn’t have a clue about what went down after that visit to Marmalade and Rye, because it’s not something a young girl needsto be concerned with. Besides, Ava’s made her feelings on the subject of ghosts known.
I give her a stern look that I hope readsKeep your trap shut, kid, and thankfully she appears to get the hint.
“I’m closed for the remainder of the day, so soon will suffice.” She leans in, getting close to my ear. “I have a situation that I was informed you may be able to help with.”
I lean back, narrowing my eyes in on the frail woman. “What situation exactly?”
“One we shouldn’t discuss here, dear. It’s…sensitive.” She glances around the room, appearing skeptical of those around us.
“If it’s important, maybe you should call the police?” I suggest, having no idea what I could possibly help her with.
“What does a donkey know about compote?” She waves a hand in the air. “No. This is a matter that only you can help with. I’ll see you soon, Alyssa,” she mumbles as she walks off, not even offering a goodbye.
Ava’s eyes are trained on Mrs. Hampson’s back, narrowed. “Did she just call you a donkey?”
I shrug, shaking my head. I’ve been called worse.
“In this instance, I don’t believe I was the donkey.” I chuckle, shaking my head.
The more I think on it, the more my gut tells me that someone has clued Mrs. Hampson in on my ability. Most likely Gloria.
Freaking fantastic.
I have Avawrapped in a tight hug, not ready to say goodbye. We just did this back in October, but it never gets easier. While I’m proud of Ava and happy she’s chasing her dreams, I miss her.
“Please drive carefully, and as soon as you get to Sammy’s, call me,” I say, giving Ava a stern look that’s entirely unnecessary.
I shut the door and blow her a kiss. She returns the gesture, waving with one hand before backing out down the driveway. I watch her until she’s out of sight, taking a piece of me with her, just like she does every time she leaves.
I need to do something. Otherwise, I’ll end up crawling back on the couch and sulking because Ava’s gone.
I quickly shoot off a text to Nick, deciding to invite him to dinner.
Me
