Page 83 of Building What's Meant to Be

In addition to Aiden and my community service, it seems half the tradespeople in town have been in and out of Bubba’s these last weeks as we framed the addition, hung drywall, and installed a new-old wood floor using reclaimed lumber. Other guys are working on tiling the new bathroom, hanging stainless steel wall panels in the storage and prep areas, and generally redoing the entire place.

When we pull up, several dusty pickup trucks already sit in the parking lot. Bubba stands in a crowd of guys and looks dubious as we approach.

For the first time in my life, the group of men don’t ogle me. I used to wear it as a badge of honor to be desired, but now I’m relieved, especially after I glimpse the text messages from Puma.

He insists I reply or he’s coming for me. Not coming to see me, to talk, or catch up. No, he’s “Coming for me.”

The sweat from earlier doubles, especially in the increasing heat of the day.

Aiden tells Bubba that we’re kicking him out of the kitchen, so it can be fixed up. He seems uncertain, but Aiden points out a food truck behind the pickups.

“Rented that for you to work out of this week.”

“Aiden, you’re really going out of your way. You didn’t have to—” Bubba starts.

“How many meals have you fed me? All of us? How many times have you helped people broken down on the side of the road, donated food to community events, and time to neighbors? We’re doing this for you...and you can thank Stoll.” Aiden winks.

“Haven’t seen him around...”

Aiden grunts. “Yeah. He’s, uh, on vacation.”

One of the workers mutters something about hoping it’s a permanent vacation.

I think about my man-cation. With a glimpse at Aiden, I can say that it’s officially over.

We tackle the various projects to get the kitchen back online STAT, including stocking the silverware and assembling the refrigerated stainless steel food prep unit. It’s sweaty, elbow-to-elbow work, and although I’m already tired, it feels good to create something and see progress. The updates and extra space are going to make Bubba’s life easier and the restaurant will be a great destination for visitors to Butterbury and locals alike.

While we break for lunch, I imagine coming back here someday and remembering that I took part in this. Aiden and I sit in the chairs I brought out to the field when Beatrice was helping me with the bees.

“I hear you’re a pro beekeeper now.”

I tip my hand with a dismissive wave. “I still have a bit to learn.”

“Does that mean you’re going to stick around?” Aiden taps his boot against mine. “Get it, stick, sticky, like honey. Listen to me, making dumb jokes. Of course, you’re going to stay.”

I was thinking someone else would take over with the beekeeping when the time comes, but I’m afraid to say that and quite honestly am not sure where I’ll go. I can’t keep taking up space in Aiden’s trailer. This is community service. It’s not designed to last, which makes me think of the ladybosses’ show.

“You should have a makeover show on HLTV too, only you’ll rehab businesses,” I suggest, eager to change the subject.

Aiden chuckles. “Oh yeah? What would it be called?”

“How about ‘Nailing down the Details?’”

Aiden’s lips twist as if he’s considering it. “What about ‘Building a Bond?’”

“Hmm. Not specific enough.”

“No?”

“You want the audience to know exactly what they’re getting. How about ‘Restoring with Aiden the Handy Man?’”

He clutches his stomach and laughs. “That’s a good one, but no. I don’t think I’m a good candidate to be the face and name of a television show.”

I turn to him and walk my fingers up his arm then press my hand against his face. He hasn’t shaved in a few days and I’m here for it. I like the rugged look. It’s intimidating, manly.

My phone beeps again and I let out a thick breath.

“Anything important I should know about?” Aiden’s gaze drifts from mine to my purse hanging over the arm of the chair.

---