Page 32 of Bewitched & Bewildered
She’s not telling me to leave. I should read between the lines. Between her snappy words and the frown on her lips, it’s plain that she’s unhappy to see me.
“I’m here to congratulate you.” I gesture vaguely. “This is looking like a successful opening day. Good job.”
“Oh, you are just…”
“I mean it!” My eyes widen. Even when I’m on my best behavior, I find a way to upset her. “It’s good to see you back in business.”
“You sound so sarcastic.”
“I’m not!”
“I don’t believe you.”
“You have trust issues.” I shake my head, suppressing more laughter. “Who hurt you?”
“No one!” Her face pinches. “Why are you doing this?”
“Doing what? Congratulating you?” The laughter I’ve held back bursts out, unleashing without my permission. I doubt it will do anything to improve Juniper’s mood.
“Acting like we’re friends!”
“We don’t have to be friends,” I say, “but we can befriendly.”
“No, we can’t.”
“Why not?”
“Because…” Her lips pop open, but nothing comes out for a few moments. “This is deliberate!”
“What is?”
“You moved here with the sole intention of upsetting me.”
“Can you hear yourself right now?” I tilt my head to the side. “Really. Listen to what you’re saying. You think I moved states to hurtyou?”
If she knew the reality of why I moved here, I think Juniper would have more sympathy. We’re both going through a loss, but it’s hard to see past your feet when you’re mourning the end of someone or something you care about.
“You’re right.” She shakes her head, deflating. “That was a bit far—but you definitely get pleasure from seeing me all… all… ruffled!”
“I do.” I shrug. “It’s cute.”
Her eyes widen, and her lips part. “I beg your most unbelievable pardon?”
“You get worked up easily. You always have. I think it’s funny. You’re like a bird with ruffled feathers.”
“Only around you. You’re the only one who does this to me.”
“I’m flattered.”
“You shouldn’t be!”
“Whatever you say.” I carefully step away; my eyes are stuck on her piercing gaze.
“Where are you going?” she asks.
It almost sounds like she wants me around. I know better than to say it out loud.
“You haven’t put me out of business yet. I still have a shop to run,” I say. “I’ll see you around, Juni.”
