Page 104 of The Wedding Run
Sunlight pours over the shops and buildings in Storybrook as I glance out of the window of The Brew. When I see Luke’s truck pull into its usual spot, I duck back and dash behind the counter.
Roxie squeezes my hand.
Then the door opens, and the bell above announces Luke’s arrival. Our eyes meet, and he comes to an abrupt stop. A tingling awareness races along my spine.
“Don’t air-condition the entire neighborhood,” Roxie says, breaking the awkward silence.
He closes the door behind him. “What’s going on?”
Roxie looks at me, but I’ve lost the words I intended to say. So, she initiates, “I thought you were coming in later, Luke. What happened to your chores?”
“I saw a strange car out front and thought I’d check in.”
“Must be Libby’s car.” Roxie nudges me.
“What kind of chores?” I ask, which isn’t what I’d planned to say.
“Oh, you know…” he hedges.
“Tell her,” Roxie says.
He ducks his head, looking sheepish. “A little gardening.”
Roxie rolls her eyes. “And what are you planting?”
“The usual.”
Roxie heaves a sigh. “He’s planting coneflowers and peppermint and chamomile. A few zinnias and daisies. For cut flowers, don’t you know. Had me calling half a dozen nurseries to find the best. Oh yeah, and sunflowers. Apparently, sunflowers are very important.”
It’s my turn to beam. “Will you plant by the waxing or waning of the moon?”
“I have to plant when I have the time,” he says.
“Plant during the waxing of the moon,” Roxie says. “That’s as the moon transforms from a new moon to a full one. That encourages growth. But you harvest during the moon's waning, which guarantees longevity.”
Neither of us is really paying attention. I can’t take my eyes off Luke.
“You should plant corn and beans together. It promotes harmony,” Roxie continues, “but I don’t think you’re listening.”
“For all that work,” I say, “you need a good cup of coffee to fuel your day.”
He grins, and it’s like sunlight breaking through the clouds. “Know where I can get one?”
I smile back. “I have an idea.”
The door behind the counter swings shut, and I realize Roxie has left us alone.
“Is it instant?” Luke asks.
“That would be a waste of all this equipment. Think you’re ready for our coffee challenge?”
“I’ve been waiting.” The dip in his voice stirs something deep inside me.
“Let me guess,” I say, assessing him from head to toe. “I bet you’d like a latte.”
He approaches the counter and leans a hip against it. “I can’t give you any hints.”
“Fine. What kind of milk? Almond, coconut, or oat? Or regular full-fat?”
