Page 26 of Stolen Kisses

Two weeks later, while a crew was here to inspect the roof, part of it collapsed.

That was when I found out that Gran had fallen behind paying some bills—including the insurance.

None of the workers had been badly injured, thank goodness. But their treatment wiped out my nest egg.

Gary left me the next day. Our marriage had started breaking down long before Gran passed, but I’d had my hands full with my job and trying to take care of her.

I’d been in a state of shock for a while. Sometimes I still couldn’t wrap my mind around everything. But sitting here, covered in grime and dust, I simplyneededto take action.

While sipping coffee, I browsed job listings. It was time to bust my ass and get a full-time job again. Summer was the busiest season, and it was coming to an end. I’d save as much aspossible and start renovations in a year. I’d have to close down for a while, because right now the intake from customers wasn't enough to cover the cost of electricity, let alone every other bill.

It definitely sounded like I was giving up on it, but deep down, I knew I wasn't. This was just a roadblock. I’d get on my feet again.

I promise you that I’m not giving up on Loma House, Gran.

I should be able to find a job quickly; I was qualified and had work experience. I also had a one-year gap in my résumé, but perhaps that would show employers that I had courage and lateral thinking.

I bookmarked three jobs that looked promising, all within an hour of scrolling the want ads. Next, I had to brush up my résumé before sending it. The listings didn’t mention a salary, but I had a good feeling this would work out after all.

I got back to my feet and rolled my shoulders. I had to do one more round of laundry, but I liked this work.

When I gave up my job to run the inn, several of my friends were dismayed."You prefer to do chores instead of going to an office?"

I did. It brought me comfort. Maybe because growing up, some of my happiest memories were of helping Gran around here. She'd always been so content, like this was all she ever wanted to do. Of course, back then, the inn was bustling with customers. But I was going to get back on track. I was determined.

As I headed to the laundry room, my phone beeped again. I was hoping it was Blair. I was beyond happy with how everything turned out. She'd dreamed of the perfect wedding since she was a little girl, and she got everything she wanted.

Instead, I had a message from an unknown number.

Unknown: Hey, it's Chase. In an attempt to pop the marshmallow cherry, I'm at Target. Do you prefer a specific brand?

I reread the message a few times. I couldn't believe it. When I was about to answer, my screen lit up with an incoming call from the same number.

I smiled as I answered. "Hi. Is this Chase?"

"It depends. Did you lecture anyone else lately about marshmallows?"

I laughed. "No.”

It was on the tip of my tongue to say,"I also didn't kiss anyone else lately."

Why was my brain trying to get me in trouble?

I pushed myself up on my toes and then back on my heels.

"You're really calling about marshmallows?" I asked.

"No, but between us, it was as good an icebreaker as any."

"I have no idea what to say to that."

"Cat got your tongue, Hannah?"

No, you did, you sexy, grumpy man.

"So whyareyou calling, then?" I asked.

"Are you at the inn?"

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