Page 6 of Sparks with the Single Dad

“He’s Ava’s brother, it’s fine. What’s going on?”

“Libby and I have decided that we can’t keep up with those chain coffee places, especially with no customers. We’re going to sell the business…or close it, whatever works.”

Phoebe’s face falls immediately, her wide eyes glancing around the café as if she’s been told her childhood home is being bulldozed.

Frank slips his arm around her shoulder for a one-armed hug before he gets up. “I’ve got a few things to do. I’ll let you two enjoy your coffee. Come for dinner this weekend. I’ve missed you. Libby would love to have you too.”

Frank heads behind the counter, and I turn to Phoebe, expecting her to be in tears now. To my complete surprise, she’s beaming and typing furiously on her phone.

As if she feels my gaze, she jerks her head up. “This is it.”

“This is what?”

“This. This is my dream, Isaac.”

FOUR

A NAP IS ALWAYS NECESSARY

“I’m serious, Frank.” I swat away his arguments. “I’m going to buy the café from you.”

“Really, Phoebe. This is just—”

“It’s perfect,” I interrupt him. “This place is so special to me, to our family. My son is named after this place, for Pete’s sake. I’ve been trying to decide what to do with my life since the divorce, and you know—” I stop, glancing around the café and deciding it doesn’t matter if Isaac hears. “You know I have the money.”

“Well.” Frank sighs. “I’ll discuss it with your aunt.”

I know that’s as good as I’m getting at the moment, so I nod. “Fine. That works for me.”

Frank kisses my temple. “Enjoy your drink and your day. I’m going to call Libby now, and we’ll get together later and discuss everything. Nice to meet you, Isaac.” He nods, and Isaac reaches out to shake his hand.

“Nice to meet you, sir.”

“Take care of my girl here. If she’ll let you.” Frank chortles before heading to the back room of the café.

“I don’t need to be taken care of,” I point out after my uncle’s gone. I don’t want to hurt Frank’s feelings, but I also don’t want Isaac to think I’m weak.

“I didn’t think so.” Isaac clears his throat. “So, what’s next on the agenda today?”

As if we summoned her, my phone starts ringing with Ava’s name and picture on the screen.

“Talk about timing.” I swipe the screen, glad for the change of subject from my ability to take care of myself.

“Hey,” she says. “How are you feeling?”

“Oh, you know. Not nearly as sick since Isaac gave me his magic cure.” Oh shit. That sounded a little awkward. “Hangover cure,” I add.

“Oh, good. I shouldn’t be surprised that he has one,” Ava says wryly.

“So, are you on your way home?” I redirect the conversation.

“For a bit, but a friend of mine has invited us up to his place for dinner.” Her voice is a little high pitched.

“A friend, huh?”

“Yes. A friend. I know you don’t remember much of last night, but he’s my client.”

“It’s a bit fuzzy. Wait, the rock star?”

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