Page 18 of Seeing You

Another nod and a smile. “Okay, the drinks will be right out!”

Once she was gone, Max leaned back with a knowing grin.

“What? Now what are you smiling about?”

“I expected you to order something snooty, like a fancy cocktail or a healthy lunch. I’m glad you still know how to be a regular person.”

“Oh God…not this again…”

“You’re right. You’re right. So…what should we talk about?”

And for some reason, he went for humor.

“How about something a little lighter, like politics or religion?”

Max’s bark of laughter was infectious and after that, it didn’t matter what they talked about because he was actuallyhappyto be here with his brother.

Chapter Four

If anyone noticed that she was spending a lot more time in the kitchen instead of behind the counter, they didn’t say anything.

They also didn’t bring up the subject of Marcus since their girls’ night ambush four days ago.

So now, on Saturday, Billie finally felt comfortable going back to her regular routine. She had no doubt that Marcus was long gone from Sweetbriar Ridge by now, so there was literally no chance of running into him.

“Isn’t today your day off?” Cora asked as she stepped aside so Billie could get to their display case.

“Well, I took Wednesday off, and I wanted to get caught up so we wouldn’t be behind for next week. You know how much I hate that.”

“I do, but you also need to spend some time away from Books & Beans. I believe Levi mentioned that you were going to take a little more personal time.”

“Levi has a big mouth,” she murmured.

“You know he’s just looking out for you, and so am I.” Stepping up behind her, Cora gently pulled her away from the display case.

“Cora…”

“It is a beautiful day out and you should be outside doing something that isn’t baking or thinking about baking. We have plenty of coverage, and Julie is more than capable of doing what needs to be done. Go. Don’t make me call your brother,” she added with a wink.

Groaning, she took off her apron. “Fine. I should go grocery shopping…”

“Nope. Try again.”

“But I really need to do it! I promise once I shop and bring everything home, I’ll get changed and go do something fun. Maybe I’ll call Jade and see if I can take Silas out for the day. We can go up to the ski resort!”

“Oh, he’d love that! He’s been asking to go up and ride that coaster thing, but these last few weeks have been rough with Cal’s ear infection and teething. I’ll bet if you called Jade, she’d have him ready to go in no time!”

Nodding, she had to agree. “Then that’s what I’m doing! I’ll go food shopping tomorrow. Today, I’m taking my nephew out for a day of fun!”

Cora hugged her. “You’re amazing and I love how much you love Silas, even though he’s not…”

“Hey,” she said softly as she pulled back. “Silas is family. He might not be Levi’s biological son, but he’s a Donovan. I couldn’t love him any more than I already do. He’s a great kid.”

“I was worried about how Silas was going to fit in with your family when Jade and Levi started dating, and it just fills my heart with joy to see how you’ve all embraced him.”

“Like I said, Cora, I love him.” Turning, she grabbed a couple of cookies and two cake pops. “You know these are his favorites. Now we can snack on our way or save them for later. See you Monday!”

Dashing into the kitchen, she grabbed her purse and keys and tossed her apron in the hamper. Sliding her sunglasses on,she was out the door. As soon as she got into her car, she called Jade.

---