“The idea of food doesn’t make me wanna run to the toilet, so I think that’s a good sign.”
I went to the kitchen and set a few pieces of Kerry’s toast on a plate for Grace. We sat at the dining room table, and as she took slow bites of her food, I got a text.
Wren
Henry told me you might need a day off. Which is fine. I hope you’re both okay.
Grace seems to be on the mend. I have a feeling she’s gonna try to work, which means she’ll think that I’ll also work. But I’m debating whether or not I’ll let her win that one.
I’d love to see a battle of the wills between you two.
It’s always entertaining, but I usually win.
You better.
“Good conversation?” Grace asked, pulling me out of my thoughts.
“Sorry.” I put my phone away. “How are you feeling?”
“I’m really fine. Going slow, but I’m keeping it down.”
“That’s good,” I said with a sigh of relief.
“Don’t let me keep you. I’ll take the day off from the shop and you can get to whatever you need to get to.”
“I’ll take whatever time I need to.” Especially now that Wren wouldn’t kill me for it.
“Dean, I promise I’m okay. I finished my toast. I feel more like myself.”
I was getting too protective. I was getting too ... everything with her. I needed to be careful.
“You’ll call me if you need anything?”
“Surprisingly, I think I learned my lesson. I know to always call you now.”
I was sure she didn’t mean it in any type of way, but the words hit me hard. I liked being the one that she called. I never wanted that to change.
I was in so much trouble.
31
GRACE
Strawberry Springs Neighborhood Watch
Kerry Winsor: @Dale Garrett, do you have something called a labubu? Tommy wants one for his birthday.
Comments:
Tammy Jane:Is that some sort of lab table?
Marjorie Brown:Is that a slang term for a lobotomy? If so, I need one too.
Jade Clark:Guys, it’s a purse charm, but it was a trend that ended a while ago. I would order one online. I doubt Dale has them.
Marjorie Brown:A purse charm? That’s dumb as hell. A name that good should be reserved for something that deserves it.
While not openingup the shop was the right thing to do, it left me with far too much time to think. I was on the couchtrying to watch a baking show, but my mind kept drifting to last night.