Page 12 of Home Field Advantage
“That sounds sweet,” I say before looking down at my watch. “Shit. I really have to go now. I’m already super late.”
“Take a deep breath, Poppy.” My sister laughs. “You’ve beenin here for two minutes, and driving to the school will take another four and a half minutes. You have plenty of time.”
I blindly gesture to my side. “Except I have to head next door for a large coffee. My pot took a crap this morning, and I’m already going through caffeine withdrawal.”
Her hand flies to her chest with an exaggerated gasp. “Not caffeine withdrawal.”
“Shut up.” I laugh.
“Oh, hey,” she says in a normal tone. “Did you hear the news that Nan’s big ‘celebrity’”—she lifts two fingers on each hand, signaling air quotes—“is moving here today.”
“No?”
“That’s the morning buzz here at Batter Up Bakery.”
“Do we have any clue where they’re moving?”
My stomach somersaults, and my heart rate picks up. There are many rental properties available, but the reason for the nerves is because there’s one right next door to me, too. Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t mind a neighbor. It’s just…I’m not ready for a “celebrity” of some sort to move there and bring a commotion with them.
What kind of public figure is this person?
Will the press follow them?
The uncertainty makes me feel uneasy despite having no clue if they’re actually getting the place next to me. I just don’t like change and the feelings that come with it.
Because I enjoy my quiet lot on Poplar Street.
No significant other.
No kids of my own.
No pets.
It’s me, my routine, and my quiet.
From the outside, it might look strange. A twenty-five-year-old who’s never really been in a relationship or doesn’t own a pet to keep her company. Even my family stopped asking questions a long time ago. They’ve accepted who I am and how I’ve prioritized my career.
“No clue,” Lily says. “But I’ll text you if I hear anything.”
“Thank you.” I nod. “I’m going to head out before I’m late. Need to stop next door.”
“Yes. You said that.” She laughs. “Get out of here. Love you.”
“Love you most.” I smile at her and turn to leave.
When the cold air hits my lungs, I attempt another calming breath. This is too much for one morning, and I feel entirely out of control.
I need to get it together.
The light chime of the bell dings as I enter the Cozy Cup coffee shop next door to the bakery.
I internally groan at how busy it is before looking at my watch. I don’t have time, but Lily is right. The school is around the corner, and I need this coffee to make it through the morning.
Everything is fine. I’m fine.
My friend and coffee shop owner, Autumn, works fast. She always has because this place gets packed in the morning. It’s the onlygoodcoffee in town. If someone’s in a pinch, they can stop at the gas station to grab a cup, but it will never be as good as this.
Tapping my foot lightly, I feel my patience running thin.
