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“Yes, the extra attention’s great,” I said quickly, not wanting to dampen their enthusiasm. “I’m sure he’ll be fine. I just want to make sure we brief him properly on all his activities.”
Olivia leaned forward, her expression thoughtful. She knew our history and that I wasn’t happy about his selection. “I can meet with him if that helps.”
I sighed, running a hand over the top of my shaved head. “I appreciate it, but I’ll take care of it. As the lead organizer, it’s my responsibility.”
She nodded. “Well, tell me if you need anything.”
“Thanks.” I tried to give her a reassuring smile. “I think that’ll do it. I feel good about where we are. Can we meet up in the mornings at this same time over the next few days, just to check in?”
“And more pancakes!” Wade said.
Their enthusiasm helped me put aside any concerns.
As we packed up, Mickey, my best friend and the son of the diner’s owner, came over. “Sorry I couldn’t join in this morning. How’s everything?”
“It’s looking good,” I said. “Thanks for organizing all the food vendors and sponsoring the picnic.”
He beamed. “Always! Oh, and congrats on that award you and the library are up for. That’s amazing.”
My face heated in a flush of pride. “Thank you. It’s an honor to be recognized for the banned books initiative.”
Olivia leaned in, her curiosity piqued. “How do I not know about this?”
“It only got announced late yesterday afternoon, and the library is getting a release out today.” I couldn’t hold in a big smile.
“Good job, boss,” Wade said. “It’s great what you’re doing.”
“Thanks.” I was at a loss for words. The announcement had been unexpected and I was still taking it in alongside everything else going on. “I need to get going and open up the library. We’re meeting the next few mornings. Can you hold our table for us?”
“Will do.” A bell rang and Mickey looked over to find one of the servers with a big order. “I’m going to help them. I’ll see you all tomorrow.”
As we were settling the bill, the bell above the door chimed, and Nicolas Montgomery walked in with Mr. Barclay.
“Andre!” Nicolas called out, his face lighting up with recognition. “How are you?”
I went to him and we hugged. “It’s all good. How’s life in Boston?”
“Busy but good.” I heard the weight he carried in his voice. “Just taking care of some business here.”
That was fortuitous. “How long are you around? I heard you’re selling your family’s place. I’d love to talk to you about that.”
Nicolas looked sheepish. “I actually sold it this morning. That’s why I’m here.”
“Oh. I didn’t know it’d been officially listed.”
“It came together really quickly with Ethan Gallagher.”
My stomach dropped, and I hoped I kept my expression neutral. “Ethan. Well, that’s… unexpected.”
Nicolas nodded, oblivious to my inner turmoil. “He spent a lot of time there and he wanted to keep that part of his childhood. I didn’t know you were interested.”
“Don’t worry about it. I had some ideas bouncing around. I’m glad you were able to get that wrapped up quickly.”
“Yeah. It was for the best. I wish we had time to catch up, but I need to get to my meeting.” He gestured to where Mr. Barclay sat reading his phone. “Good luck with the festival. I’m sad to miss it this year.”
“Thanks.” I hugged him again. “You might even be able to watch it from Boston if Wade’s plan comes together.” Wade smiled as I nodded in their direction.
“That would be amazing. Send me the details.”
