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Romi helped the hostess gather up her things and even walked out to her

car carrying supplies a few times. When she was finished, she locked the

front door behind her and leaned against it. Her eyes were still dancing as

she smiled over at Kiera, who had moved out from behind the front counter.

“That seemed like a fun time.”

“It was. I think everyone really enjoyed it.”

“Any sales?”

“Tons.”

Romi’s smile grew wider. “That’s awesome. I’m stoked to check out all

these teas. I think I’m an old soul. I’ve always loved tea. I drink it by the

pot. I’ve fallen off and been drinking way too much coffee lately, so this

should get me back on track. And all the tea is organic. Isn’t that

awesome?”

“Yeah,” Kiera choked. “That’s great. It sounds really good. Everyone

really seemed to enjoy it.”

“You don’t drink tea?” Romi gave her a look that was half horror, half

disbelief.

“Not really.”

“Because you don’t like it or you’ve never really got into it?”

“Well, my family always drank coffee, so I guess I just never really tried

it or got into it. I wouldn’t know where to start.”

Romi held the list aloft reverently like it was made of gold, not paper.

“This will fix everything! I’m going to bring you a selection of the teas I

love. I’ll give you instructions on how to make them, or at least how I like

them. You have to try them! They’re the best. Nothing beats sitting down

with a good cup of tea. Some of them are like drinking a latte, they’re that

good.”

“Sounds…good. But you…you don’t have to do that.”

“No! I want to.” Romi strode forward, like it was settled. She walked

straight to the makeshift living/dining room area they’d set up that morning.