Page 47

“Oh, right.” Demetrius appeared to lighten as the furrow in his brow disappeared.

“And some people take the commuter train into the city. It’s a really long trip, but it’s also an option—if they want to stay close to home.”

“Plus, lots of virtual degrees these days. Both kids would have the discipline to do that.”

“Then you have plenty of options.”Please move to Mission City. I need more friends.

“Where are you going to live?”

“Huh?”

“When Pride Camp is over? Or will you live on the property year-round?”

“Honestly? I hadn’t given it much thought. Alessandra’s insisting on making mine a full-time position for the year. I’m free to pick up other work to supplement my income—when camp’s closed—but she doesn’t want to lose me.”

“What would you do? Oh, what a lovely gift shop.”

We halted and gazed through the display in the window. Lots of Indigenous art along with a few other unique items.

“I should get something for Alessandra. To thank her.”

“That’s a nice idea. Probably unnecessary, though.”

“True.” I bit my lip. “What do you buy a woman who is married to a billionaire?”

“Something one of a kind, I suppose. Or something for her cute kid. People always love that. Oh, is that a bookstore?”

We advanced to a stop a couple of doors down.

The Owl’s Nest.

“How did I miss this earlier? Drat, they’re closed.”

“They’ve been here for as long as I can remember. I came in here a few times as a kid.”

“I hope you enjoyed your visits.” A deep voice came from behind us.

We turned to find two guys strolling up with creamy chills from Tim Horton’s intheir hands.

The slighter man—with blond hair and blue eyes—smiled. “I’m Dickens. My parents owned the shop before giving it to me. I’ve been running it for a while now.” He focused his attention on me. “Jai, right?”

I nodded.

“You were a year behind me in school. You were friends with Arnav.”

Again, I nodded.

“Well, I was a quiet kid. Always had my nose in a book.”

“And I’m Spike.” The taller man—with longish black hair and equally stunning blue eyes offered a shy smile. His T-shirt showed nice muscles. “If you have a motorcycle or vehicle that needs fixing, I’m happy to help.”

Dickens nudged the man. “My husband is getting better at drumming up business.”

“Well, I’m the best motorcycle mechanic in town.” The man puffed his chest, even as his cheeks pinkened.

“Although MATH automotive gives him a run for his money in the vehicle repair department. Great women.” Dickens continued to grin.

“Yeah, they are.” Spike didn’t appear the least bit upset at the suggestion he had competition from women.