Page 30 of All Inn Thyme
Through the kitchen window, I watch Ty walk to his truck.He made me coffee?What’s wrong with this man? What’s wrong with me? I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop, but what if he’s just a nice guy?
My phone buzzes, interrupting my thoughts. A text from my group thread with Beth and Allie.
Beth
How was last night? Did you settle in okay?
Allie
Yeah, we need details.
Beth
Did you see him shirtless? (Heart eye emoji)
Allie
Beth! You’re practically married to my brother!
Beth
This is “book research” for my next romance novel.
Allie
(Eyeroll emoji)
Mellie
You both are ridiculous. (Smiley face emoji) I didn’t see him shirtless. But he did make me coffee. And the dog might be my favorite.
Nova sits at my feet, her long tongue hanging out to the side in her usual goofy-looking grin. I instinctively reach over and stroke her velvety head.
My phone dings again with another text.
Allie
When are you getting here? Sasha wants to hear deets too and she’s making us omelets. We also got you something.
My stomach rumbles at the idea of breakfast. I finish my coffee and rinse the cup before placing it in the dishwasher. Ty’s kitchen is very clean, and I want to make sure he doesn’t feel like we’re making a mess being here.
Mellie
I’m on my way.
A few minutes later, when I pull up to the inn, Kase comes running out and hugs my leg. “Momma. How’s the new bunkhouse?”
“It’s good, baby. I can’t wait for you to see it. It’s just temporary while Evan fixes up our shed, but I think you’re going to like it.” I stroke his blond hair and rub his back. I learned my lesson getting his hopes up before, and I don’t want him to get too comfortable since we won’t be there long. “Did you sleep well?”
“Yeah. And Sasha made me Mickey-shaped pancakes, too,” he says proudly.
“Oh, that’s nice. I bet they were so yummy.”
“Is Nova there?”
His excitement about the dog makes me happy. “She is, and I think she’s pretty excited to see you, too.”
“I can’t wait! I can help with her, you know. I’ve been helping with Chip and Bossy!”
