Page 131 of Just Let Go

The old lady lifted her eyebrows. “Look at him. What do you need to get to know?”

Quinn laughed. “Do you have mail for me?”

“Saw you two all lip-locked at the ball the other night.” This woman always said exactly what she thought. It was terrifying and refreshing at the same time. “Along with half the town.”

“Sorry about that. I guess we got caught up in the moment.”

She grinned as she peered up at Quinn. “You don’t have to apologize to me. There’s nothing like young love. I still remember the day I met my Charlie. That was a fine-looking man.”

Quinn laughed. “I’m sure you were a real catch yourself.”

“Oh, I was.” She chuckled. “Though it’s been a little while since then.”

Quinn watched as she tugged her gray uniform pants up, her ample belly tucked in behind a thick black belt. She handed Quinn the stack of mail and gave her a loose salute. “You take care of yourself—and that good-looking man.”

“Thanks, Gerry.”

Quinn smiled at a customer who passed Gerry on her way out the door. “Let me know if you need any help.”

The woman gave her a nod and Quinn slid behind the counter, a place she couldn’t be without thinking of Grady. His kisses had grown more frequent now, but they weren’t familiar enough for her to stop savoring them.

Actually, she hoped she never stopped savoring them, even when they were familiar.

She flipped through the envelopes Geraldine had just handed her when a logo that readMichigan Floral Expoin pink letters caught her eye. It stung to see the words, a reminder that she’d missed her chance. She still remembered when her mother brought home her first Best Design award all those years ago. She’d been so proud, so excited. It had validated her somehow, given her confidence.

Maybe Quinn craved that validation too.

She tore the envelope open and pulled out the letter inside.

Dear Miss Collins,

We are pleased to inform you that your design, “Secret Garden,” has been accepted to the Michigan Floral Expo this spring. “Secret Garden” will be showcased along with the two other top designs. Please prepare to bring a piece of your display that highlights the overall design for the rest of our judges to see. The attendees always find these displays so inspiring.

On a personal note, I’m thrilled to hear you were able to send in your required documents after all. I apologize for my mistake. It would’ve been a shame if the rest of the worldwasn’t able to see your beautiful work. Our president spoke very highly of the entire Harbor Pointe Winter Carnival ball, but especially of your display. Judging this year’s preliminary competition was her last order of business before retiring to Florida with her husband, and she said she was thankful she had the chance to do it one more time.

I look forward to meeting you in person at the Expo, as I’ll be stepping up as the acting president until a new one is voted in this summer. Additional information and details about your display will arrive within the next week.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Kitty Moore

The paper fluttered from her fingers to the counter, the words barely registering. What was this woman saying? There must be some mistake. Her mother couldn’t have been at the ball—if she was, surely Quinn would’ve known.

Wouldn’t she?

“Miss, could you help me?” The customer from earlier stood on the opposite side of the counter, holding two containers of flowers and a small garden gnome. “Miss?”

Quinn stared at her blankly. It didn’t make sense. She hadn’t included a copy of her business license or tax information—she’d found it on the desk in her office. And to imply that her mother had been here, had seen her designs... Kitty Moore must not have all the facts.

Why would they still judge her design if her entry was incomplete?

She picked up the phone and dialed the number on the letterhead, but of course it went to voice mail. Quinn was beginning to wonder if Kitty Moore ever answered her phone.

“Miss, I’m ready to go.” The customer again, this time in a tone that was thinly laced with impatience.

“I’m sorry. Of course.” Quinn rushed through the process ofringing her up, going through none of her usual chitchat. Instead, she said nothing but the woman’s total, made her change, and sent her on her way.

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