Page 24 of Love's Bloom
Debbie Sweeney, the owner of the store, greeted Misty. “How are you, young lady? I hear you’re going to be my granddaughter’s teacher. I’m delighted.”
Misty conjured up the list of student names she’d been given. “Oh, yes. Caro Sweeney. I hope she’s as excited as I am.”
“She’s very excited, unlike her older brother, who’d rather play baseball, especially now that Ross Roberts is living in town.”
“I understand. It’s exciting to think of all the sports opportunities here. Wait until the sports center opens. It’s going to be even better than the clinics held at the new baseball field.”
“I’m thankful the whole town is behind it,” said Debbie. “Now, how can I help you?”
“I need some special chocolates for Ms. Wittner,” said Misty.
Smiling, Debbie shook her head. “I swear that woman keeps my store going with all the purchases made for her.” She walked behind the counter and pointed to a selection. “These truffles came in this morning. I suggest a mix of flavors.”
“Perfect,” said Misty. “I’ll take a couple of pounds.”
“And because it’s Genie Wittner, I’ll wrap the box for you and add a fresh flower with the bow.”
“Thanks,” said Misty. “You make everything very nice.”
While Misty waited for Debbie to wrap the gift, she looked around. With so many different colorful flowers, it was such a cheerful place.
“Here you go,” said Debbie, handing her a box wrapped in silver and tied with a white satin ribbon. A pink rose was tucked into the bow.
“Lovely,” said Misty, handing Debbie her credit card. Part of Debbie’s success with the shop was her ability to make even the simplest gift or bouquet elegant. She did the flowers for the Inn, all the churches in town, and for many of the weddings and other celebrations, keeping the shop going year-round.
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It didn’t take long for Misty to drive to The Woodlands. The attractive, one-story stained-brown building had been constructed by Collister Construction, giving Aaron and Brad Collister the credibility theyneeded to grow their company.
Inside, Misty was told by the receptionist that she could go along and see Ms. Wittner.
Misty walked down the hallway, stopped at GG’s apartment, and knocked on the half-open door.
“Come in,” called GG.
Misty walked inside and over to where GG was sitting on her couch.
“Good afternoon. I’ve brought you some treats,” Misty said, glad to see GG alert. “I thought you might be taking a nap.”
GG gave her a smug look. “I’ve already had a little cat nap.” She patted the cushion next to her. “Please sit.”
“This is for you. Debbie Sweeney sent the flower.” Misty handed the box to GG and was amused when GG very carefully removed the wrapping.
“Thank you. Everyone knows I love my sweets. This is very thoughtful of you,” said GG. She lifted the cover of the box and eyed the truffles inside. “Here. You take one, and then I will.”
Not wanting to disappoint her, Misty lifted a chocolate out of the box and waited for GG to choose one.
Then, together, they each took a bite.
“M-m-m,” said GG. “Delicious. Now, tell me why you’re here on such a nice day.”
“I had lunch with Susie Graham. She mentioned your name, and I realized it’s been too long since I’ve seen you. It’s always nice to chat with you.”
“Susie Graham, huh? My spies tell me you’ve been seeing David.”
Misty chuckled. No one knew exactly how she did it, but GG kept track of everyone in town.
“David and I have gone on a couple of dates. He’s very nice. His parents invited me to dinner, and Susie and I hit it off right away. She’s lonely after Lily died, and it’s been fun to think of her as a mother-type because I didn’t have one growing up.”
