Page 48 of Spiritwarrior

“You have had your challenges since coming here,” Ginny commiserated. “By the way, Jody needed to take off when the customers died down. I have Fynn in the back, mopping the floor.

“He doesn’t need to do that.”

“Yes, he does,” she said firmly. “The more jobs he does here, the easier it will be for Silas. He hates to punish Fynn; he prefers being the big brother than having to be the disciplinarian.”

“I wish I had a brother like Silas.”

“I’m very blessed.” Ginny eyed the items Sophie was pulling out of the bag. “I see Lily told you about the bakery Willa runs upstairs of the thrift store.

Sophie took out the raspberry cheesecake, an apple pie, and chocolate cupcakes.

“Help yourself.”

Ginny didn’t have to be told twice. Pouring herself a glass of milk, she nabbed a chocolate cupcake and sat down at the kitchen counter.

The tingling of the bell had both their heads turning to see Deputy Bevere walk inside. He took a seat at the counter and eyed the variety of desserts.

“Hello, Deputy, what can I get you?” Sophie greeted him.

“I’ll have one of those of cupcakes, a cup of coffee to go, and you can call me Joel.”

Sophie felt a heated flush fill her checks as his eyes met hers.

She filled his order, then felt self-conscious when she turned around and caught him still watching her.

“I was wondering if you’re doing anything Saturday night? There’s a music festival going on at the park. Everyone takes blankets and coolers to watch the performances.”

“Sounds like fun, but I’m afraid I won’t be able to. I don’t close the diner until ten.”

“You’ll be wasting your time. Everyone will be at the festival. There will also be food and drink booths.”

Sophie bit her lip then nodded.Why not?

“Okay. I’d like to go,” she agreed, sliding his order across the counter.

Joel stood, picked his order up, and went to the cash register.

“I’ll pick you up at six.” He gave her his card then looked toward Ginny. “Are you going to be singing Saturday?”

“I’m supposed to go on at seven, but I expect it to be more at eight.”

“I’ll see you ladies Saturday. Do you want me to pick you up here, Sophie, or your apartment?”

“You can pick me up here,” she replied, giving him his card back.

Sophie glanced at Ginny as she finished drinking her milk while Joel left. “I didn’t know you sang.”

“I’m a woman of many talents.”

“I see that.” Finding a display case under the counter, she filled it with the desserts.

Ginny rose and picked up the empty glass. “Do you like Joel?”

“What’s not to like? He’s very attractive and seems nice.”

“He is.”

Sophie raised an eyebrow at her gloomy tone. “What’s wrong?”

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