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“What did you think I would say?’

“Frankly, I thought you’d tell me I was nuts and to seek help.”

Carol took a deep breath and nodded. “Since we’re admitting what we know, I might run Murphy’s. You built it. That’s something you’re great at, Fallon. You know how to build things. You can see ideas before anyone puts them on paper. Iknowthat. It’s probably why you’re great with investments. I’ve worked with you for a long time. I know when you’re making a gesture and when you’re making a business decision.”

“What do you think Charlie will say?”

“I think Charlie will want to map things out—look at numbers. I also think he’ll be excited about the prospect.”

“Really?”

“Yes,” Carol said. “He will ask you why you want to do this now.”

“There are a lot of reasons,” Fallon said. “And some of itisbecause his business is struggling. That means he’s likely more open to making a change. I want to get this new business with Dave off the ground. And, Carol? I don’t want to work with strangers. Strange people are fine. Notstrangers.”

Carol laughed. “I’ll talk to Charlie.”

Fallon nodded.

“What’s up, Fallon? There’s something you’re not telling me.”

“I can’t…”

“Did you shrink one of Riley’s shirts again?”

“Not this week.”

“Okay?”

“Riley told me she’s ready to have a baby.”

“Why aren’t you dancing on the bar?” Carol asked.

“I don’t know! I’m just—I’m…”

“Worried it won’t happen.”

“Yeah. Why am I worried?” Fallon asked.

“It happens. It’s because you want it so much. Believe me, I get it. I didn’t think I’d ever get pregnant.”

“We haven’t told anyone, but we plan to start trying next month.”

“My advice? Don’t stress. Don’t set up the nursery yet or stock bottles. Just let it happen. That’s why I struggled at first—too much planning. Don’t be devastated if it takes time.”

“That’s what Riley said.”

“You should listen to your wife.”

“I listen.”

“You listen to me, too. You hardly ever take my advice. That’s fine. You sign my paycheck. Just make sure you take hers.”

“And I thought the whole town was here last year,” Ida commented to Andi.

“We’ll be having one every week if this baby train keeps going,” Andi said.

“I’d rather buy toys and eat birthday cake than plan funerals,” Ida said.