Page 18 of Buried Roots

After a quick trip to the hardware store and MoonMart for some work clothes, I’m in the stable making a plan for the repairs. I told Owen that it’d be tomorrow before I needed his help, which was a lie—I could definitely use an extra set of hands today. But he’s got so much going on, I felt guilty taking up his time.

As it turns out, he’s in hiding as he’s in negotiations to take over Violet Moon’s vet hospital. Dr. Thompson is retiring, and Owen doesn’t want the local rumor mill to explode until it’s a done deal. Right now, Owen’s living in Atlanta, but he’s meeting with Dr. Thompson in three days, on Friday, to finalize the details. At that point, Owen will make an appearance because he has to—his sister’s rehearsal dinner is that night. And I can’t stop thinking about the fact that he’s moving back to Violet Moon for good.

My brain keeps going there without my permission, and it shouldn’t because it doesn’t impact my life one bit.

On the roof, I replace the loose shingles, and it’s sweltering with the sun beating down on the black roofing—worse than a packed subway station in August. I’m not used to this humidity, and worse, I forgot to bring up water, which I need ASAP. I’m stepping to the ladder to get some when Owen’s head pops up—carrying two water bottles.

“What are you doing here?” My eyes bulge.

“You’re not gonna last long in this heat. You need an extra set of hands to work quickly.” He holds up the jugs. “And you definitely need water.”

Owen Brooks just showed up for me—and in the best way possible. I feel a burning bright happiness, like the infernal sun above. And he’s right—I’m going to end up with heat stroke.

“Thank you,” I say, relief rushing around the words. I take the water bottle.

“You’re very welcome.”

After I show Owen what to do, it isn’t long before his white shirt is see-through from sweat, and I’m definitely enjoying the view.

“So, how did the high heel wearing queen of Queens become such an impressive expert at roof shingling?” Owen jambs his cat’s paw under a shingle and pops it loose.

“I’ve been working on houses since I was a kid. It’s just something I always knew I wanted to do.” I pump my shirt to try and cool off. It’s useless. “And I love it, mostly. I don’t particularly care for roofing.”

“I don’t blame you one bit there.” He hesitates, cocking his head. “So, how did you know Bo?”

I groan. I already hate this question, but I’m prepared to tell people that Bo knew my father, which is my best guess. Except I don’t want to give Owen just that placating answer. “Well, I’m adopted, and I have no idea who my biological parents are, so I could possibly be related to him. I’m waiting on the DNA test results now. Or Bo spent some time in New York, so he could’ve known my adoptive father.”

Owen blinks, his face softening. “That’s a lot to unpack.”

“You have no idea.”

“Can I help?”

I rub my thumb over the back of Lily’s ring. “Do you know anything about Bo and Lily before they came to Violet Moon?”

“Not really. I know they moved from Atlanta. Bo wanted a slower pace, and he couldn’t wait to design the new buildings downtown. Lily was quiet and kept to herself. She liked to read, especially after she got sick and lost her mobility. Loved the farm and the horses. Both good people.”

I sigh, holding out my hand. “I found this.”

Owen leans over, studying the piece of jewelry. “Oh, yeah—that’s Lily’s wedding ring.” He looks up at me, his face paling. “And it’s a willow tree.”

“Yes,” I whisper.

“Shit.”

“Right.” I bend and pick up my water bottle before taking a big swig. “I’m searching for any clues that explain how I’m tied to Bo and Lily. Let me know if you think of anything that might be useful.”

“I will.” As if taking a cue from me, Owen chugs his water, too. “I’ll ask Ma, too. She and Lily were close.”

“I’d appreciate that—but can you do me a favor and wait until after your sister’s wedding? Your mom’s got enough on her plate.”

“All right.” The corner of his mouth quirks. “But it sounds like you need to stay longer. Figure out your roots. Give this place the care it needs before listing it.”

“I wish I could.” I explain my situation with the Klein account and Natanya, who hopefully hasn’t fired most of the field crew by now—they’re a handful. Then I ask, “So, you’re ready to come back to Violet Moon for good?”

He wipes his brow. “I like Atlanta. It was great for the time I was there—I got to live the big-city life. Take advantage of the museums, theaters, and all the cool bars and clubs. I got my fill of dating and hookups, but at the end of the day, my heart is here, along with my family. So, when Mr. Thompson called me, I said I’d meet with him.”

“Makes sense.” I love that Owen’s got the experience of a city boy but is a country boy at heart.

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