Page 64 of All Inn Thyme
I never thought about it like that. What if he’s holding back something and isn’t who he says he is? I don’t think he would do that, but I have a weird feeling that I can’t seem to shake.
“Yeah. I just don’t know what.”
“Any clues from around the house?” she asks.
“I’m not snooping on him.”
“What? It’s not snooping. It’s investigating,” Allie says. “Start with his underwear drawer.”
“You’re ridiculous,” I say, and we all laugh. “You just want to see his boxers.”
“Oh, so he wears boxers?” She flutters her eyelashes.
“I have no idea, creep.” I throw a grape her way in mock frustration.
“Ty seems like a reasonable guy. If he’s going to hide something, he’d have a good reason,” Allie says. “Just talk to him.”
“Yeah, like maybe he’s a secret agent,” Beth offers. “I should put this in a book.”
“God, I hope not. That would be insane. I don’t need any drama like that with Ty. Let’s keep that in your romance books and out of my real life.” I chuckle.
“I like him for both you and Kase,” Allie says with conviction. “He loves you both, and he’s good dad material for Kase. I’ve seen how patient he is with both of the boys. Plus, I know Logan really likes him, too.”
“Even Evan likes him,” Beth playfully interjects.
Allie gets more serious. “He fits in with all of us. You lucked out with him, Mellie.”
“I’ll talk to him,” I say to end this conversation. I’m really missing him right now. I’ve gotten so used to him being here with us and I never want what we have to end—whatever we’re calling it. If this is as good as it ever gets for me, I’ll take it.
I can’t tell if there’s really something here or I’m just naturally waiting for the other shoe to drop, because to be honest, it always has for me. I don’t want that to happen with Ty, though.
Sensing a subject change, Beth and Allie slide the food closer and dig in.
“Are you excited for the farmers’ market this weekend? Your first one ever! This is very exciting,” Beth says.
“I am. Are you still available to help?”
“Of course. We’re all hands on deck for you.”
“And what about you, Allie? You ready to promote your new beautiful bakery?”
“I am so freaking nervous, but so excited.” Allie exhales a big sigh.
“You’re the most incredible baker, and people are so excited. Freedom Valley has needed this. The only other place to go to is the Freedom Bean, and they’re always packed. This is needed, especially on Main Street,” I assure her.
“Thank you.” Allie smiles warmly.
“We’ve got this,” Beth says.
“Yeah, we do.”
And for once, I believe it. Things are going to be okay.
The door opens and Evan steps in. “Ladies,” he says, greeting all of us. Then he walks over and wraps his arms around Beth, kissing her cheek.
“Hey, honey. I’m glad you’re here.”
“Me too. This looks good.” He reaches over and takes some snacks from the board and pops them in his mouth.
