“That sounded defensive.”
“I have received no complaints.”
She shook her head, but the tension in her shoulders eased slightly.
“I’m working tomorrow morning,” she said.
“That’s fine.”
“You can come to the shop, but if people start gathering, you leave.”
“Agreed.”
“You attract attention while doing very little.”
“That feels personal.”
“You wore a silver jacket on national television.”
“I am not wearing one now.”
She looked at the hat.
“That may be worse.”
When the truck turned onto Pelican Key, I recognized Rosa’s café first, followed by Reef Rascal across the road.
Captain Pancake stood outside with his front paws on the fence. Hank held the leash without appearing committed to the concept.
The dog saw the truck and began barking before Ellie had parked.
“Brace yourself,” she said.
“For affection?”
“For mass.”
I opened the door and got one foot onto the pavement before Captain Pancake launched himself at me.
I caught his front legs as he licked my chin, the side of my face, and most of the hat.
“Hello.”
Hank approached at a more dignified pace.
“You came back.”
“Ellie invited me.”
He looked at her.
“Good.”
Ellie narrowed her eyes.
“That is all you have to say?”
“I had more, but I’m protecting the moment.”
