Page 39 of When In Doubt

Turning back to Valerie I try not to laugh at him as I say, “You’ll need to come in before Friday. I’m headed to Denver over the weekend so I’ll be closed.”

“Oh, shoot, I forgot about that,” she says.

Oscar frowns. “Forgot what?”

“I have a convention,” I reply.

“What kind?”

“Um, just a craft fair thing? I have a booth,” I say uncertainly, put off by the intensity of his expression.

“It’s a big one,” Valerie interjects. “I’ve been a few times, always manage to do some damage to my wallet.”

“Are you going this year?” I ask hopefully.

She winces apologetically. “Not this time.”

“Oh, that’s too bad.” It would have been nice to have a familiar face there.

“Is anyone going with you?” Oscar asks.

“No.” I shrug. “It’s not ideal, but I’ll make it work.”

Valerie frowns. “That’s a long drive to do alone.”

It’s four hours each way. It’s longer than I’ve ever driven in one day, but it’ll be worth it. I was so excited when my vendor application got accepted, this is a huge opportunity for my business. I can’t let the fear of doing it on my own hold me back.

“Don’t I know it,” I say sheepishly.

“You feel okay about doing it by yourself?” Oscar asks between bites.

“Sure!” I try to sound more certain than I am. “Besides, it’s just for this year. Hopefully by next summer I’ll have hired some more help in the store.” For something like this I’d really want two, or maybe three people working the stand.

He hums in agreement, nodding down at his plate. “Are you going to be fine setting up and everything?”

“I’ll make it work. If I need anything I’m sure I can get one of the convention staff to give me a hand.” I hope.

“Elsie’s just outside Denver now, right?” Valerie says. “Maybe she’d come help you?”

“She’s already got plans on Saturday,” I say ruefully.

“Is this your first convention?” Oscar asks.

“I’ve done some smaller ones, but nothing like this.”

Valerie nods at him. “It’s very prestigious.”

He gives me a warm smile that makes my stomach flip over. “That’s awesome.”

“I hope so.” I set down my fork, my dinner long gone. I see Oscar watching me out of the corner of my eye. I meet his gaze and my breath catches at the way he’s looking at me. Almost like he’s deciding something.

“Room for dessert?” Valerie asks, already standing.

“Here, let me.” Oscar ushers her back into her seat. She rolls her eyes affectionately as he bustles about, clearing the table.

“There’s ice cream in the freezer,” she says to him over her shoulder. He nods and grabs bowls from one of the cupboards. When she turns back to me, her eyes are alight with mischief. “You know, he’s had the same favorite flavor since he was old enough to hold a spoon.”

“Oh yeah?” I ask, raising my eyebrows at him.