Page 70 of The Things That Hold Us

Logan holds a hand up, stopping me.

“It’s not just an antique store.” he starts, “It’s your dream. It’s your connection to Sam. And most importantly, it’s whatyou love to do. So no, I don’t think you're getting overly excited. I think you're just the right amount of excited.”

“You do?”

“Absolutely. Never be ashamed of being happy about something you love.”

I nod, looking around at the store.

“Could I even make this work? I mean, it being two hours from me?”

“It would be a big change, but I think you could do it.” he tells me, and I don’t know why, but his support through all of this has been exactly what I need.

“I’ll think about it some more. Wait and see what insurance says.”

“Sounds like a solid plan,” he says.

I hear Kelly’s heels approaching, no doubt eavesdropping and waiting till we were done talking to come back in.

“So, what are we thinking? Do we love it?”

I look at Logan, and he gives me an encouraging nod.

“I do. I really love it.” I tell her, but before she can pull papers or anything important out, I add, “But I’m still waiting to hear from my insurance company, and would really like to take the night to think about it. Would that be ok?”

I watch her smile falter for a second before she composes herself, “Oh, absolutely. Take all the time you need.” she tells me, her voice back to the high squeak it was before. Then shequickly adds, “Just keep in mind that this is a very popular spot in town, and it’s likely to go quickly.”

“Ok. I’ll call you as soon as I decide something, either way." I tell her, and then feel my phone ring.

I pull it out and see Cassie calling. I forgot I told her I’d call her when we got here.

“I’m sorry, I have to take this.” I excuse myself, and go answer my phone.

I fill Cassie in on the shop, and tell her how I’m feeling, and she’s all for it. I hang up, putting my phone back into my purse, when I notice Logan speaking with Kelly. He's smiling, and she's laughing.

He says something, and she laughs, putting her hand on his bicep.

I feel my face get hot, and jealousy rolls through me.

What the fuck is that about, Charlie?

I can’t be getting jealous over him. He’s not mine to get jealous over.

I watch them talk, then she points down the road.

I can only assume she’s asking him out.

Because why wouldn't she? I have zero reason to be annoyed by it, yet I am.

Just as she finishes speaking, Logan looks right at me. His eyes meet mine, and it’s like I can hear him saying,“Don’t worry, I’m not going.”

I blink, looking away from him. It’s none of my business.

He’s single; I’m single. Why should it matter if a beautiful woman asks him out?

Kelly waves bye to me, with a slight tinge of disappointment on her face; which, for some reason makes me feel better.

“Are you ready to go?” Logan asks as he approaches me.

---