Page 18 of Beanful Wishes

I pull out my phone, ready to share the exciting news with Jake. But as I start to type, I pause. Maybe this is something better shared in person. Over dinner, perhaps?

With a smile, I put my phone away and start the car. It’s time to take a chance, both professionally and personally. After all, isn’t that what the Wishing Wall is all about?

I return to Coffee Loft, my mind still buzzing with ideas from my meeting with Marcus. As I push open the door, the cheerful chatter of afternoon patrons greets me, but my attention is immediately drawn to Jake. He’s seated at a corner table, deep in conversation with a man I recognize as Tom Larson, the owner of Wilmington’s most popular seafood restaurant.

Their animated discussion floats across the room, punctuated by Jake’s enthusiastic gestures. I hang back, not wanting to interrupt. It’s fascinating to watch Jake in his element. His eyes shine with passion as he talks about the Wishing Wall.

“So, the city manager mentioned this community event you’re planning,” Tom says, leaning forward. “What if we created a Wishing Wall for my restaurant, too?”

Jake shakes his head, his expression a mix of appreciation and protectiveness. “I appreciate the offer, Tom, but the Wishing Wall is unique to Coffee Loft. It’s about more than just wishes—it’s about the community we’ve built around it.”

“Fair enough. How about this? We could create a special menu item inspired by the Wishing Wall and donate a portion of the proceeds to help fulfill wishes. And of course, I’d be happy to help if my restaurant could host one of the wishes,” Tom says, his booming voice carrying through the restaurant, causing quite a few heads to turn.

Jake hesitates, clearly mulling over the proposal. My mind immediately jumps to the wish from the elderly husband whowants to do something special for his wife on their anniversary, but on a limited income. A romantic dinner at Tom’s upscale restaurant could be perfect.

After a moment, Jake’s face softens. “You know, that could work. The special menu item is a great idea, and having your support for wish fulfillment would be incredible.”

Tom grins, clapping his hands together. “Excellent! It’s a win-win for both of us. Your Wishing Wall gets more support, and we get to be part of this amazing community initiative.”

As they continue discussing details, Tom’s eyes suddenly land on me. His face lights up with recognition. “Hey, aren’t you Sophia Martinez from WILM? Your coverage of the Wishing Wall has been fantastic!”

Jake turns, a smile spreading across his face as he sees me. But there’s something else in his expression. Maybe it’s concern that I’m about to steal the show.

“Sophia, come join us!” Tom waves me over. “We were discussing the community event and how my restaurant might get involved.”

I walk over, trying to keep my expression neutral despite the conflicting emotions swirling inside me. “Hi Tom, Jake. Sorry to interrupt.”

“Nonsense!” Tom exclaims. “Your input would be invaluable. In fact, I hope you’re in charge of promoting the event. Your reach will really boost participation!”

I feel a flush of pride at his words, but it’s quickly followed by a twinge of discomfort. I’m acutely aware that I’ve been encroaching on Jake’s project. This is his passion, his baby.

As Tom continues to talk about his involvement, I sneak a glance at Jake. He’s smiling, but there’s tension there. Small lines around his eyes that weren’t there when he watched Lily play at the park.

Chapter Eight

Jake

Istep into the Bookworm’s Haven, a quaint little bookstore nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington. The bell above the door chimes softly as I enter, and the comforting scent of books greets me. Sophia is already there, browsing through a shelf of local authors.

“Hey,” I call out, and she turns, a warm smile lighting her face.

“Jake! I was starting to think you got lost,” she teases, setting down the book she was flipping through.

I chuckle, trying to ignore the flutter in my stomach at her smile. “Never. I just had to close up the shop. So, where’s Elena?”

“Ms. Rossi is finishing up with a customer. Should be here any minute,” Sophia replies, leading me to a cozy reading nook in the corner. “Why don’t you tell me why we’re here?”

As we settle into the plush armchairs, I tell her about the latest wish that’s caught my attention. “Mr. Thompson, a local high school teacher, came by Coffee Loft yesterday. He has this incredible vision for his classroom—a ‘Reading Oasis.’”

Sophia leans forward, her reporter’s instincts kicking in. “Tell me more.”

“He wants to create a dedicated space filled with books, comfortable seating, and reading aids,” I say. “The goal is to encourage students to explore literature and foster a love for reading. He believes that by creating a welcoming and engaging environment, he can better support students who struggle with literacy and inspire a lifelong passion for learning.”

Sophia’s eyes light up. “I like it, Jake. It could make such a difference in these students’ lives.”

My thoughts exactly and why I pushed this to the top of the line.

Before I can respond, Elena walks over, a warm smile on her face. She’s a middle-aged woman with kind eyes surrounded by tiny laugh-lines.

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