Page 84 of Pick Yourself Up
He’d used that phrase so often during her childhood. Whether it was about how to sew a straight line or solve a complex chemistry problem. He’d always believed she would find the solution. Find a way to make things work.
“You’d like it here, Fox. Thanks for stepping in and keeping us safe and happy, for giving us a loving home. You were the best grandfather, and I miss you.”
She could feel him here. In a place he’d never been.
Smiling at her own whimsy, Amber pulled out her phone when it beeped with a notification from Jolie. I’m coming in. I picked up packages for you at Phail General.
Excitement rippled through her, and she bounced down the steps, Boomer loping at her side. “Do you think he’ll like them?”
Boomer woofed in response, making her smile. She thought so, too.
Jolie waved from the door where she reset the security system. After everything that had happened, everyone always ensured the system was engaged.
Jolie carried over the two boxes. “I’m nosy. What did you order? Is it for the No Phailed Apples Inn?”
The name had caught on, and Amber liked the way it sounded. While it was longer than most names, it fit the quirky nature of the area. The additional link to the nearby town would be a bonus on both sides for advertising and tourism.
Now that she had the name, she could decide on the style of sign she wanted as well as the letterhead, website, business cards, advertising. All the fun stuff.
Which brought her back to the boxes. After checking the label, she replied to her sister. “This one is. Want to see?”
Jolie laughed. “Of course I want to see, but now I’m curious about the other box. It’s not for the Inn?”
Amber shook her head but didn’t answer. Instead, she led the way to the nearest table and opened the first box.
After peeling back the paper, she pulled out the first engraved plaque. Her eyes filled with happy tears. “It’s perfect.”
Jolie took another one and grinned. “These are for the rooms. They’re amazing.”
They were. The soft gold finish had been distressed and would work perfectly with the green she’d chosen for the walls.
She traced her fingers over the delicate font with fancy swirls, but still easy to read.
Apple-y Ever After.
Pie Shop.
Duckington Palace.
The Apiary.
Toy Box. Which would be all about the machines.
Harvest Time.
Blossom Time.
Inn Cider.
Eight rooms. Potential for eight sets of guests.
Jolie hugged her with one arm while they set the plaques on the table. “They’re perfect, Amber. Does it feel real yet?”
She laughed. “This certainly helps. Am I nuts, Joles?”
Her sister laughed. “Not even close. The No Phailed Apples Inn is going to be a hit. You’ve created something amazing here. I know you’re still a few months away from opening, but it’s going to be incredible.”
She hugged her sister. “I hope so.”
