Page 66 of Love at Teamsgiving
“That’s up for debate, but they love the house.”
“It’s practically my dream house.”
“I know.”
“Papa always wanted to move us out of the city and buy a house.”
“Is that why you moved here?”
“One of the reasons. Also, I was getting burned out at Guys & Dolls and wanted to open my own salon.”
“What are you going to name it?”
“I’m thinking ‘Hair Salon.’” Her tone lacks enthusiasm.
“That’s, um, not very original.”
“If you can name your cat Purr-t Reynolds?—”
“Burt,” I correct.
She laughs again. “I can name my shop, ‘Hair Salon.’ That’s what it is, so there won’t be any confusion.”
“What about ‘Junie’s Hair Salon?’”
“I’ll think about it.”
“Your mother seems to be adapting. I saw her cheering us on.” Junie too. In fact, she was so distracting that I had to recite Hockey Hall of Fame stats so I remained focused on the game.
I pull the car into an on-street parking slot on 4thand cut the engine.
“What are we doing?” she asks.
“I said I’d walk you home.”
“My house is over a mile away.” She points.
“Or just walk for a little while.” I need to burn off some of this restless energy ... and I want to spend a little bit longer with her.
She exhales slowly and adjusts in the seat so she’s facing me.
I ask, “Remember when we walked home in the snowstorm?”
“Of course.”
“Then we’d meet up at dawn after snowstorms?” It became our thing. I wonder if that’s why winter is her favorite season.
Junie’s gaze floats to mine. “And the city was as quiet as it could get.”
“A hush.” My voice is barely above a whisper.
She leans closer, but I don’t think it’s to hear me better. “Stillness.”
My gaze dips to her lips.
Cheeks flushed, her eyes sweep mine.
“We could,” I whisper.
