Page 18 of The Things That Hold Us

This has been a weird day, and I just want to relax.

I pour some eucalyptus and lavender salts in, grab my tub pillow, and slowly sink in.

Logan.

I remember now. I can’t believe I forgot that. I’m a horrible person.

He remembered my name. After only hearing it once. Maybe he just has a better memory than I do, which lets be honest, that's not that hard.

I grab my phone, put some calming music on, and close my eyes letting the scents and sensation of the salts and hot water calm my frazzled nerves.

I can't be feeling these things. Not again. I need to get Logan out of my mind, and fast. But I don't know how. He keeps popping up. What if I run into him again? What if I start seeing him at all my local shops? What if he becomes a regular at the antique shop?

I’m overthinking this. I’m way over thinking this.

I slip my head under the water, and hold my breath for a minute.

This doesn't have to be a thing. We are both adults, I can set boundaries, and hold them. I already told him I don't date, so that's a good start. If I see him again, I’ll just make sure he understands how adamant I am about that.

No dating. No men. It's not in the cards for me.

I come up for air, just as my phone dings.

I dry my right hand so I can grab it.

Cassie.

How did it go with mountain man?

I set it back down without answering. I just can't right now. There's too many thoughts and feelings being stirred up, and I just need to be alone right now.

Why must life be so unfair?

I end up finishing the bottle of wineby myself, and fall asleep crying listening to sappy love songs.

Tomorrow is going to be just fantastic.

My alarm goes off at 6 a.m sharp, and I groan. I don’t want adult responsibilities today. But, today is Thursday, which means Mr. Reeves will be coming in as soon as that sign says open.

I quickly wash my face, brush my teeth, then head to my closet.

It’s surprisingly chilly this morning, so I toss on some high rise jeans, sneakers, and a comfy crewneck sweatshirt. There's a slight chill in the air with fall being just around the corner, and I love it.

I keep my hair simple, and toss it into a messy bun.

I stop in and grab my usual, but Cass isn't in today so it goes a lot faster than normal.

To my surprise, Mr. Reeves is already at my shop waiting on the bench in front of the window.

“Isn't someone early today?” I say as I approach the door.

“Good morning, Charlie.” he says, then adds, “I have a breakfast date today with a wonderful gal. I wanted to stop here first, you know, just in case it goes well and we end up spending the day together.”

My heart.

He has to be in his early 70’s, but he lost his wife a couple of years ago. This is the first I’ve heard of him dating.

“How exciting! Well, don’t stand out here and freeze, come on in.”

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