Page 7 of Finding Ash
“Well, you’re family now. Foggy family. If you have any questions or are having trouble finding certain things, don’t be afraid to reach out. I may have a connection, or a thousand. And one thing I learned after my wife passed is don’t dine alone, it isn’t healthy. Most nights you’ll find me over at Pints. Great food and the company ain’t half bad. Shoot me one of those texts your generation lovesif you want to meet up. Here’s the keys and welcome to Foggy, McClain.”
Merle’s sincere words brought tears to my eyes. He smiled, gripped my shoulder, and showed himself out, knowing I’d need a few moments to collect myself. But I’d definitely take him up on a meal here and there.
See McClain, you’ve already found your place.
Too bad you aren’t here with me, my love.
I’ll always be right there with you, in your heart.
I brought the solo suitcase I’d traveled with today, along with my laptop bag, upstairs and got to unpacking. First thing I did was place the framed pictures I’d insisted upon carrying with me in the move right where I could see them. One on the bedside table and the other in the living room. I traced the picture of us on our wedding day, my fingertips pausing on Sammy’s face. “Sammy, I miss you so much it hurts.”
Empty boxes taken to the dumpster, I decided a drive through town was warranted to get a feel for the layout and end at the grocers. One day I’d make the walk, but given I literally needed everything, that load of bags would be more than these old arms could haul home.
Home.
Yeah, I could feel it.
What a quaint little town. Aside from the larger businesses, such as the grocery store and a couple other stand-alone buildings like the Pints ‘n Pool bar Merle had mentioned, the signs for each storefront hung from chains along the wooden walkway that lined both sides of Main Street, reminding me of something straight out of the old west. The larger business had signage on the buildings that was lit up. For the most part, they’d kept to the vintage feel I assumed was the original concept for the town. Foggy was akin to a Norman Rockwell painting, complete with children chasing balls and dogs barking in the park as they played with one another.
“Welcome to Foggy, McClain, is it?” The cashier greeted me as I unloaded the cart onto the belt. Guess word got around fast, which made me wonder if my new friend Merle wasn’t one of the gossips he spoke of. Sly old dog, I couldn’t wait to get to know him better.
“Thank you, and yes, I’m McClain. It’s wonderful to meet you.”
“Well, it’s gonna not be wonderful for my figure when you open that creamery of yours.” She grinned. “It’s all the folks can talk about. Been far too long since we’ve had an ice cream parlor here.”
“Well, I hope you’ll stop by for the grand opening and sample a few of my creations.”
“I’ll be there with bells on. Not sure if Merle told ya.” That confirmed it, Merle was an adorable gossip. “But if you need anything, we keep a bulletin board in the post office. Folks post stuff for sale, giveaways, and even job openings. If you’re looking to hire, I’d suggest posting an ad there yourself.”
“That’s good to know, thank you so much. I’m sure I’ll be searching for at least one or two part-time employees.” With each person I passed, they greeted me with a warm smile and a kind, welcoming word. The heaviness in my heart lessened and the excitement I’d felt when I’d initially concocted this plan slowly returned.
Between the building layout drawings, including measurements, as-builts as Merle had called them, that he’d emailed me, I was able to get two commercial ice cream machines ordered ahead of the move, along with the display freezers measured to spec. A dozen flavors to start with and a soda machine for floats or cool beverages on a warm day was how I’d start. Booths were stationed across the storefront window and a couple round tables were out in the open floor area. I’d envisioned it to mirror an old-fashioned soda jerk, paper hats included, and it did.
Now, I wondered what it would take to add a small sit-at bar at the end of the counter.
I’d stock the walk-in freezer in the back with the standard flavors before I opened. If I kept with that forward motion, I wouldn’t have to wake up at four am to start the machines. I’d feature a flavor of the month and having all the planned recipes nailed down, I was feeling pretty good.
Tomorrow I’d be up bright and early to meet the first of the scheduled deliveries. The plan was to do a grand opening in thirty days to kick off the summer. As long as nothing was delayed, I saw no reason I’d miss that proposed date.
Hmm, if this used to be a candy shop, maybe adding a confectionary stand or two would be a good idea. Making candy wasn’t my forte, but I’d reach out to some of the local businesses and see if any townies did and if they’d be interested in a consignment program. If not, I can always order from my favorite candy shop in Sacramento. Wholesale, of course.
How long has it been since I was this excited about anything?
With the groceries put away and what little I had left to unpack completed, the place was tidied up and I was ready to shower and hit the sack. As much as I’d love to sleep tonight, I knew better. With this much adrenaline coursing through me there wasn’t a chance.
I was a man of spreadsheets and plans. Hopefully, it will all stay on track.
Chapter Four
Ash
“I’m dying to see inside.” Remy laughed as I went from window to window searching for a torn piece of paper to sneak a peek between and get a glimpse of the new ice cream place inside. “Aren’t you?”
“I am, but you’re acting like you’ve never been to an ice cream shop before.”
Blink. Blink.
“Oh shoot, you haven’t, have you?”
