Page 8 of Text Appeal

Joyce nods. “Riley will show her!”

I wrinkle my nose in confusion. “You do all remember I’m not actually dating Connor, right?”

The three women exchange glances. Then Noor says, “We might have gotten a little overexcited.”

“This batch of cookies sure has a kick to them. Gosh I’m hungry,” says Joyce. Then she yells through the café door, “We could do with another plate of the buckwheat scones, honey!”

“So that’s why the whole town thinks you two are dating.” Martha sighs. “Ava and Connor have known each other since they were children. They used to be good together. But they outgrew each other a long time ago. That’s the truth of the matter.”

“As you see it,” says Joyce. “Connor could well feel differently. Though him changing his phone number is interesting. I’ll give you that.”

Martha grunts.

Noor is staring into space with a peaceful expression on her face.

“It’s a damn shame you two aren’t dating,” continues Martha. “Maybe he wouldn’t fall straight back into old habits with you-know-who for a change.”

“Yeah. I don’t think so.” I smile in amusement. “When was the last time Ava was home?”

“Christmas.” Martha sighs. “Connor’s been in a bad mood ever since.”

“He has not been himself,” says Noor. “He was always on the quiet side. Now he stomps around with a scowl.”

“That’s true,” agrees Joyce. “He was always such a pleasant, helpful boy. But every time I’ve seen him lately, he’s got his head down and his shoulders up.”

More sighing from Martha.

“I better go.” I rise to my feet. “This has been great, though. Really.”

“We’re here most mornings,” says Joyce. “Come and visit us again, Riley.”

Noor blinks and returns to reality. “Yes. You should. We do mimosas on Fridays.”

“I’d like that,” I say.

“To quote Ava, we’ll see you soon.” Martha does a great evil cackle. The woman has talent.

I give her finger guns in return. No idea why. Then I walk back to my apartment, apply a whole lot of coffee to the situation, and get pulled into my word count.

My cell chimes with an incoming text at around eleven pm. Which is fine, since I often stay up to write. It feels like there’s more room to think and breathe when everyone around you is fast asleep and the world is quiet.

Ava: Grandma okay?

Me: Yeah. Thanks again for your help.

Ava: Was Connor away or what?

Me: Not a clue. Martha got confused and called his old number.

Ava: You’re still sticking with that whole you don’t know him story?

Me: Why are you so convinced I am lying?

Ava: Guess I’m jaded.

Me: What’s so great about him anyway? The whole town seems to think you’re some epic love story. But if that’s so, why do you keep breaking up and getting back together?

Ava: You asked around about me, huh?

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