Page 31 of Threads of Kindness
Frank’s complexion deepened with each word Josh spoke. “You evidently don’t know much about me.” His voice was hoarse. “My backstory isn’t one to be proud of.” The shame he carried clung to his words like a shroud.
Josh held his gaze. “Iknow about your past, Frank. The man sitting across from me today isn’t that guy.”
“You’re not ashamed to be associated with me?” Frank asked quietly.
“Of course not,” Josh said. “In fact, I came here to ask if you’d stand up with me at my wedding.”
Frank rocked back in his chair, stunned.
“We’re having a small ceremony,” Josh continued. “Susan Scanlon is Sunday’s matron of honor. And, if you’re willing, I’d like you to be my best man.”
Frank remained motionless, as if flooded by a surge of emotion. Then, his expression cracked, and he stood, coming around the desk and extending his hand.
“I would be honored,” he said, his voice thick. “I’ve never been anybody’s best man before.”
“Thank you,” Josh said, taking Frank’s hand and pulling him into a one-armed hug. “Sunday will be excited to hear this. She said to tell you we don’t know what anyone’s wearing yet. I’ll let you know as soon as we decide.”
“I’m fine with anything you want,” Frank said, still visibly moved.
“Great,” Josh replied. “Mark that Saturday off on your calendar—and be sure to tell Loretta.”
“Will do,” Frank said with a smile.
Josh moved toward the door. “I’d better get to Highpointe. Maggie and I have a big day ahead of us. And I think you’ve got a spreadsheet calling your name.”
Frank nodded. “You’ve made my day, Josh,” he said, watching as the younger man disappeared down the hall.
CHAPTER 16
Tim waved at the couple exiting Archer’s Bridal on the other side of the street. He noted the time on the clock embedded in the sign above Burman Jewelers. It was 10:45. As he expected, Gordon and Anita had arrived early for their scheduled showing.
“It’s a cold one today,” he called, holding out his hand to shake hands first with Anita and then Gordon. “I’m glad you’re dressed warmly. It feels even colder in there.” He gestured toward the door of Candy Alley with his head. “At least out here there’s sunshine.”
“Did you go through it already?” Anita asked.
Tim nodded. “I prefer to tour a property on my own before taking a client to see it.”
“Well,” Anita asked, “first impressions?”
Tim grimaced. “Are you afraid of mice?”
“Oh gosh,” Anita said. “They’re not my favorite. Do you think they’ve got a mouse?”
“I’m certain of it,” Tim said. “And not just a mouse—but a nest of them. Maybe even a mischief.”
Anita gave him a puzzled look. “I take it that means more than a nest.”
“I’m afraid it does,” Tim said. “When Charlotte passed away, her heirs locked the door and walked away. None of the inventory was cleared out. It’s obvious that food attracts mice—or rats. I’m honestly not sure which. Could be both.”
Anita shuddered.
Tim put his hand on her elbow. “The place is full of trash, debris, and scat. I’ve already called the executor’s attorney about the deplorable state of the property. He promised they’d send an exterminator in immediately and have the debris hauled away, but it might take days to schedule someone. Would you like to wait until the premises have been treated?”
“I’ll book another trip out here,” Gordon said, “if you want to postpone this viewing.”
Anita shook her head. “Nope. I don’t want to wait. I’ve been thinking about nothing else for the past two days. Let’s go inside.”
Tim smiled. “I thought you’d say that.” He reached into the bag he was holding. “I nipped into Westbury Hardware and picked up these masks for us. We don’t want to contract hantavirus.” He handed one to Anita and one to Gordon before putting on his own. “Let’s get started,” he said, opening the door and ushering them inside.
