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"He runs the business side with me. Operations, numbers, contracts. Although we both cross into each other's territory more than either of us admits."

"You miss it?"

The answer comes before I have to think.

"Yes."

My fingers settle around the warm cup.

"I miss my kitchen. Service. The noise. Knowing exactly what needs to happen next."

"But you're still involved?"

"Every day. Julian's keeping everything running, and I make myself annoying all the way from Oakridge."

"I somehow doubt he thinks you're annoying."

"You haven't met Julian."

My phone buzzes beside my cup. I look down. JULIAN. Emma notices.

"Speak of the devil?"

"The very one."

I reach for the phone, then stop.

"Is Julian your boyfriend?" Betty asks.

I look at her. Emma suddenly finds her coffee fascinating.

"No."

"That was quick."

"Because the answer is easy. Julian is my business partner and one of my closest friends."

"So no grand New York romance?" Emma asks.

I laugh.

"Not unless spreadsheets have become romantic."

"Depends on the spreadsheet," Betty says.

I shake my head.

"No romance. Just years of working together without killing each other."

"That's practically marriage," Emma says.

"Don't tell Julian. He'll want an anniversary gift."

My phone stops buzzing. I leave it on the counter.

"I'll call him back."

Betty looks at me.