Page 17 of Until Then

The woman behind the register smiles in greeting. “Izzy, it’s been a while. Your usual?”

This is the thing I’ve come to love about Parkerville—everyone knows everyone and everything. Sure, nosy people can be a pain, but so far, I’ve found that most of the townsfolk here are genuinely caring, and that’s something special.

“That would be great,” I say. “And whatever Via’s usual is, too. It’s good to see you, Cindy.”

She clicks a few keys on the register, then looks up at me, brows lifted. “Any pastries today? I know how much you love our oatmeal cookies. They should be out of the oven in about five minutes.”

I slam a hand over my heart. “You’re speaking my love language. One, please—actually,” I correct, “make it two.”

I have no idea whether Derrick likes oatmeal cookies. Most people seem to find them bland, but I’m their chief advocate. Now oatmealraisincookies? That’s a different story. Those belong solely in the trash.

Still, despite not knowing his cookie preference, I want tobring him one. To share a treat I love with him like he did when he took me for a slushie.

I tap my card to pay and add a few dollar bills to the tip jar.

“Thank you, dear.” Cindy passes me the receipt.

With Wonton still curled under my arm, I step off to the side. While I wait, I scan the coffee shop. It’s quiet this morning.

Inside, it’s a mix of reclaimed wood from a variety of buildings in the area and new bright-blue subway tiles that serve to bring the ocean across the street closer.

The mix of the old and new is comforting, charming.

In LA, everything is shiny and sterile. Modern and minimalist. There’s such little personality there. Not in the places, nor in most of the people.

To me, the things that have been around for a while hold the real appeal.

Yeah,my conscience taunts me,like Derrick.

“Your order’s ready, Izzy.”

I startle, my heart lurching. The way she’s watching me, head tilted in concern, tells me Cindy’s already said that more than once.

“Sorry,” I rush out, scurrying to the counter. “Thank you.”

I put the cookies in my tote and precariously balance both cups until I get outside, where I set them on a table and put Wonton down. He wags his tail and turns in a circle, his sweet little face full of so much excitement.

“We’re going to see Auntie Via, just like I promised.” While I get the cups situated again, I take a moment to appreciate the flowers growing along the outside of the building.

Wonton gives an annoyed yip, telling me to get my ass going.

Via’s store is about another mile down the long stretch of road along the coastline.

By the time we make it there, I’m sweating, and the ice in her drink is melting. Oh well.

“Hey.” She brightens when she sees me and steps around the front desk to throw her arms around me.

I’ve heard horror stories from my friends about how fucked up sibling relationships can be, but despite our age difference, we’ve always been close. Via’s my best friend.

“For you.” I pass her the iced coffee, then let Wonton off his leash to run around.

“Thanks.” She takes a hearty sip, her eyes dancing as she surveys me. “I can’t believe you’re staying with Reid’s dad.”

I shrug. “What choice do I have if I’m going to stay in town?”

“You could come back and stay with me.” She bumps my shoulder.

“In your little fuck pad? I think not. I’m not dumb enough to turn down a good clean bed for your couch. There’s no telling what it’s endured.”

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