Page 46 of Lakehouse Promises

She smiled. “Great.”

“But there’s no way you are going to make a success out of those. They are too far gone.”

“Maybe. But I think they just need a second chance and some love.”

Bernice snarled and walked away.

Carolina quickly finished her work and then as soon as the business closed, she paid for the pumpkins and began loading everything into the back of her jeep. If she thought Bernice would offer to help she was sadly mistaken. After locking up the building she headed for her jeep.

She changed from her rubber boots, which she’d bought on sale at the farmer supply store and slid on her old sneakers before getting into her car.

Driving through town she spotted a yard sale. An old gray watering can caught her attention so she pulled over and got out.

Her mind started to spin with ideas for decorating as she picked up the watering can.

She glanced around for its owner, finally spotting a young woman, her arms filled with a baby. “I don’t see a price on this.”

The owner smiled. “It’s old and does have a leak. We found it in the attic when we bought the house. How about five dollars?”

“I’ll take it.” Carolina pulled some money out of her purse. Her gaze swept across the items lined up on the driveway. “Looks like you have some good items here.”

“I’m hoping it does well. I am not moving that stuff back inside.” She laughed and the baby flailed his arms.

Carolina’s gaze stopped on a worn wicker basket and three legged stool. She walked over. “How much for both of these?”

“I don’t know. Ten for both?”

Carolina’s eyes widened. “You’re asking too little. But I’m not one to turn down such a great price.” She handed the woman the money.

Satisfied with her purchases, she took her items back to the car and loaded them.

She glanced at the time on her watch and decided to stop at the grocery store.

Her appetite was returning and she had a craving for some chili for dinner.

When she pulled into her driveway she noticed that Thomas had managed to get all the old shingles off and was now in the process of prepping the roof for the new shingles.

He was making pretty good progress despite the fact he was working solo.

She grabbed her groceries and headed inside. Once she put everything away, she went back outside.

She shielded her eyes against the bright sun and looked up at Thomas. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going.”

“I stopped by the sandwich store beside the grocery and grabbed a couple of sandwiches for lunch. I have an extra one if you are hungry.”

He frowned and glanced at the time on his watch. “I guess I worked through lunch. I’ll take you up on your offer. Be down in a minute.”

She nodded and opened the back of her jeep and began unloading.

“What’s all this for?” Thomas appeared at her elbow.

“I’m going to decorate the door and flower beds.”

“I hate to tell you but Bernice ripped you off. Those plants are dead.”

She scowled. “They’re not dead. They still have life in them. They just need some attention.”

---