Page 9 of Espresso Your Love
Ms. Abrams, or Aunt Clara as Cassie called her, winks at me and then closes the door.
“Well, she’s a ball of fun, isn't she?” I chuckle as I follow Cassie.
“Welcome to Meadowbrook, where very well-meaning people like to butt into your personal life.”
“It’s kinda sweet, actually. I’m liking the small town family feel so far.”
“Live here for thirty years, and then we’ll talk.”
“I might take you up on that.” She finally looks at me now, and her face softens to a smile. “Well, welcome wagon, where to now?”
“You really want a town tour, or are you just scared to go back in and face her?”
“I would like a tour from the girl who’s lived here…thirty years, was it?
She nods and seems to think about it for a moment. “Alright, Mr. Big City. Let’s go.” She waves her arm as she turns down the sidewalk.
“Ahhh so you did snoop through my wallet.”
Her mouth drops, and her hand flies to her chest. “I was not snooping!”
“Should I make sure all my cash is in here too?” I pretend to grab my wallet from my pocket.
“Hey, all I did was check your driver’s license. I’m jealous of how good your picture is, by the way.”
I’ll take that as a subtle note that she thinks I’m attractive. That’s a good sign. “Oh, yeah?”
“Yes, I look like a different person in mine.”
“Oh, it can’t be that bad. Let me see.”
“Absolutely not. The only people who will ever see it is if I get pulled over.”
“I guess I’ll have to make friends with the cops around here.”
She rolls her eyes at me then we turn a corner.
“Alright, Mr. Big City, let’s get on with the tour. This,” she spreads her arms wide and spins around, “is the heart of Meadowbrook, the town square.”
We walk towards a large patch of grass with a water fountain in the center. There’s a gazebo off to the side and benches sporadically put about. Upkept historical buildings surround us with various businesses. Trees with leaves turning colors and falling to the ground.
“It’s like Stars Hollow.”Oh no. I think I said that out loud.
“What did you say?” Cassie turns to me with her brows furrowed.
“Uh…You lead. I’ll follow?” I stumble on my words. I dart my eyes away looking at the town square.
From the corner of my eye, I can see her facial expression, and she doesn’t believe me one bit.Ugh. Sadie. It’s all your fault.
She starts walking around the town square, and I follow…because apparently that’s what I said.
“So there’s Sweet Sisters Bakery, which is where your donut was from this morning at Coffee Loft.”
“Absolutely delicious.”
“I agree.” She points across the square. “There’s Ander & Sons Hardware Store.”
“Mhm.”
