Chapter 2
HAYES
Hayes Adams watched as the Sinclair family settled into the corner of Coffee Cakes Coffee Shop and Bakery deep in conversation. However, one family member was missing. Where was Tessa? Hayes thought.
“Looking for Tessa?” Willow Brooks asked, leaning on the serving counter.
“What? Uh, I, no—" Hayes stammered, a light blush on his face.
“Sure,” Willow replied knowingly with a smile. “What can I get for you today?”
Hayes looked at Coffee Cakes’ owner and wondered if he really was so obvious. Had Tessa’s best friend figured out how he really felt about Tessa? They had all been friends for years. Growing up in a small town worked that way. Even when people moved away, the bond of growing up together lingered.
“Just a regular coffee, please. And a scone,” Hayes replied, looking up as the bell announced a new customer entering the shop.
Tessa entered looking mildly disheveled and a little distracted. Hayes moved toward her for a second, then stopped as she turned to join her family. Hayes continued to watch her, wondering what was bothering her.
“Here you go,” Willow said, startling him out of his reverie.
“Oh, thank you,” Hayes replied, walking back to the counter to pick up his order.
“They read Mrs. Ruby’s will today,” Willow said, nodding toward the Sinclair family.
“Oh, I didn’t—" Hayes stumbled over his words again.
“Relax, Hayes, she doesn’t know,” Willow replied.
“Know what?” Hayes asked, trying to maintain a cool fa?ade.
“Okay,” Willow said with a smile. “I know today must have been difficult for them. It’s so sad Mrs. Ruby is gone.”
“Yes,” Hayes agreed, “she always was so nice to me. All of us. I always felt at home at her house.”
“Same,” Willow replied with a sad smile. “I know she’s in a better place, but there will always be something missing here.”
“I agree,” Hayes said. “She left a wonderful legacy.”
He looked again at the Sinclair family gathered in the corner.
He was glad they were all together. Even though most of the Sinclairs had moved away, he knew they were still a tight-knit family.
He figured that the reading of the will was just a routine; everyone pretty much knew what to expect.
He knew Tessa was looking forward to carrying on her grandmother’s legacy with The Hickory.
Hayes waved to the family as he walked out of the coffee shop.
Tessa smiled briefly at him. She still looked distracted.
He wondered what was on her mind. He decided he would call her later.
Although Willow had unnerved him. Did everyone know how he really felt about Tessa?
Did everyone know he was in love with his lifelong friend? With his best friend’s former flame?