Page 62 of All Inn Thyme
We walk back through the double doors to find Beth sitting on the counter, snacking on the charcuterie board, proudly cradling her baby bump.
I say hello, then pop an olive into my mouth.
“Oh, good, you’re here. We were just about to text to see if Evan would bring you by. How’d you get here?” Beth asks.
“Ty’s truck.”
Beth’s eyes widen. “Oh, really. How are things going with you two? Spill.”
“Uh-uh. First the tour, then snack and gossip. In that order.”
I scan the kitchen, taking in the modern but functional black and white tile backsplash that looks amazing with all of the natural wood elements built into the kitchen. Beth’s baking supplies are lined up and organized on a counter in clear oversized baking storage jars for easy access and measuring.
“This is where all the magic is going to happen,” Allie gushes. “I’m going to create family memories with custom cakes, treats, and goodies for every occasion. The upstairs will be used for events and gatherings. It’s not quite finished yet, but I want to show you anyway. Logan’s making us put on hard hats if we go up there.” She hands us each a hat.
“Ohh, I’m going to borrow one of these for Evan. It’ll go great with his tool belt,” Beth says with a wicked grin.
“Eww, gross. That’s my brother.” Allie makes a pretend throwing up sound.
“You can share your hard hat with Logan,” Beth says, sliding on her hat.
“What makes you think I already haven’t?” Allie grins wickedly.
“I hope it’s not the one I’m wearing.”
“Speaking of hardhats and toolbelts, have you guys seen the garden shed?” I ask. “I saw that it’s finished, it looks like they did a great job on it.”
When Evan first showed me the completed shed, I was nervous I’d move back right away and have to leave Ty. So far, though, no one has said anything about it, so we’re just staying put. Plus, we have Nova now, and I can’t imagine separating her and Kase. Heck, I can’t imagine separating from Ty. I miss him so much.
“You’re not moving back, are you?” Beth asks, looking worried.
“No, going to stay with Ty for now.” I smile sheepishly.
“Good, because I like Ty with you. He seems good for you guys,” Allie says as we start for the stairs.
We climb the wooden steps with a metal railing. We reach the top and there’s a big, beautiful landing with bookcases. Allie is excited as she leads the way, and I’m thankful for a change in conversation.
“This will have seating areas spread about and side tables with cozy lamps. We were thinking about offering to host book clubs here, bridal showers, birthday parties, things like that. In the back, we have a few other rooms we’re thinking of using for meetings, maybe even co-working spaces for people looking for a quiet place.”
“That would be a great use of space.” Beth looks around. “I love the hardwood floors and huge windows.”
“Next week, right?” I ask.
“Yes, we are still on for our soft opening in a week and our grand opening in two weeks,” Allie says excitedly.
“It’s been so cool watching your dream come true,” I say, my chest filling with pride seeing Allie so happy.
“It smells so good. Cookies baking, freshly brewed coffee. This is going to be the hot spot of Main Street here in Freedom Valley,” Beth says dreamily.
“Now let’s go eat. I’m hungry, and I want to know all the things going on with you two.”
“Me too.” Beth follows her down the stairs.
“You’re always hungry,” Allie jokes.
“Yeah, well, I’m eating for three,” Beth says.
We stop and turn and gape at her, seeing her mouth slightly open.
