Page 15 of Just Trouble

???

My phone rings. It’s Abbie.

“Didn’t Luke tell you?”

“Tell me what?”

Abbie backpedals. “Something happened.”

“Like what?” I’m pretty sure I can guess but it would be better to know.

“It doesn’t matter. Luke wants to make a difference. He wants to change. That’s the important bit and if I only need to sign one document to help, I’ll do it.”

I think whatever had that big of an effect on Luke Jones’ worldview does matter. “Was it Taylor’s death?” I guess.

She sighs but doesn’t answer. “It’s his story to tell, if he wants to, but he convinced me. I know this plan is crazy and I don’t think it will work out, but I’m hoping I’m wrong.”

“Your dad won’t agree.”

“That’s what we all think. Luke won’t be able to change his mind, but Daphne, could you?”

“I have no idea.”

“I suggested that he come to you. If anyone can do it, it’s you, Daphne. Promise me that you’ll try.”

Of course, I promise, even if Abbie’s view of my skills is unjustified.

I call Austin, using the number Abbie gave me. Apparently, he’s in California, filming yet another episode ofSo You Think You Can Cook. You’ve probably seen it. All these ambitious chefs pitted against each other, three judges to pick apart their creations—and them, if they’re unlucky. Austin is the miserable one. He’s sarcastic and tough, kind of funny if you like that sort of thing. He does it so well that he must come by it naturally.

Again, the legacy of Patrick casts its shadow. No one learned the power of praise and encouragement in that house.

“What?” Austin demands when he finally comes to the phone.

They were all out of charm when he got to that line,I think but I don’t say it out loud. It sounds like something my mom would say.

I start to explain, but Austin interrupts me.

“You’re calling fromEmpire? From the end of the world? You’re interrupting my day with a question about my half-brother’s half-assed scheme to improve our wreck of a hometown and the lives of people I don’t even know? Do you think I have nothing better to do than listen to this kumbaya garbage? Whocaresabout those properties, other than Luke?”

“Did you sign the agreement?”

“Of course, I did. It doesn’t matter what happens in Empire. Give it all away, my father will have a heart attack from shock, and life will instantly become simpler.” He sighs. “It’s never going to happen, though, Ms. Bradshaw. Luke is ridiculously optimistic. The old bastard doesn’t even get rid of his fingernail clippings.”

There’s an image I don’t need. I thank him and look at my list.

They all knew.

They all willingly agreed.

Luke didn’t lie to me.

I spin in my chair and review the whole thing one last time. On the pro side, I like the idea of the world being a better place. I like the idea of Empire getting another chance. I like all the ideas of Abbie getting her grandmother’s house, of this awesome chef in Toronto owning her own restaurant, of Sylvia spending time with her grandmother while she (hopefully) heals, of Una not having to worry about losing her house, of Mackenzie planting those grapes to make more ice wine and build on success.

I really like that Luke sees the power of change in women. Did he do that on purpose?

I also like the idea of having a great place to go for lunch in town, right across the street.

I like fresh starts.

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