Page 20 of A Very Grumpy Neighbor

“Yep, we’ve got it ready for you right here.”

Frank heads into the back and returns with a box, setting it on the counter. “Got everything you needed.”

Jade smiles. “Thanks, Frank. You’re the best.”

“Of course. Take care now.”

She waves, and I take the box before she can protest. I follow her out to her car and set it in the trunk.

“What are you hungry for?” she asks as we get back in the car.

“Whatever you want.”

“How about Nosh’s Diner?”

“Sounds good.”

We make the short drive to the diner, and I hop out and open the driver’s door for her. We head to a booth in the back andslide across from each other. I don’t bother with a menu, and neither does she.

“Hey. What can I get you two?” Cameron asks as she stops at our table.

“Hey, Cam. How have you been?” Jade asks her friend.

“Good. Are you coming to the next girls’ night?”

“If you’ll have me.”

“Of course, you’re always welcome,” Cameron says with a smile.

“Thanks.”

“What can I get you guys to drink?” she asks, looking between Jade and me.

“Just a water for me,” I reply.

“Me, too.”

“Got it. You know what you want to eat?”

“Can I get the BLT, please?” Jade asks.

“Sure thing.”

“I’ll have the same,” I say.

“Easy enough. I’ll get that in for you two.” Cameron smiles and heads off to fill our orders.

“So, tell me about trees,” I say, focusing on my girl.

“Well, there are a lot of them. So many different kinds. Some are so old. It’s crazy to think about everything they’ve been around for.”

“Have you seen the sequoias?”

Jade smiles. “Not yet. It’s on the bucket list, though.”

“You have a tree bucket list?”

“I have a list of things I’d like to see. You don’t?”

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