Chapter 18
Chapter Eighteen
Austin
I wake long before my alarm sounds, which is completely out of habit for me.
Thanks to years of shift work, my sleep schedule is all over the place, and I always need an alarm to wake me up.
Not today. No, after spending most of last night staring at the ceiling, I’ve been awake long enough to watch the strip of daylight visible beneath my navy blackout curtains change from the soft glow of dawn to the strong gold of day.
Accepting I’ll need to get through the day fuelled by caffeine and stubbornness rather than any actual rest, I throw back the covers and get dressed.
When I open my curtains, the only signs of last night’s storm are the puddles dotted across the ground.
Today’s all blue skies and fluffy white clouds.
It’s a good job I got the replacement heater and tables set up outside in time for the party at the bar tonight.
I’m meeting Mum for breakfast soon. She insisted on celebrating the official grand reopening of Bowman’s together before the main event tonight—something about wanting to make sure I don’t spend the whole day stressing. I dress in jeans and a plain forest-green v-neck before padding downstairs.
Once again, my mind fills with thoughts of Cassie while I pour the last of my milk into my mug of coffee—I’ll have to stop at the shop before work.
I’d be lying if I said thoughts of the tiny brunette weren’t the reason I was awake half the night.
Between worrying about tonight’s big party and wondering how the hell I keep finding myself having these…
moments with Cassie, it’s no surprise I’m already craving my second cup of dark roast.
Beans & Bakes is a hive of activity when I arrive, but I’m able to snag a table right after two women vacate it. Mum joins me only a couple of minutes after I’ve sat down.
“It’s busy today,” she comments, taking off her lightweight jacket and hanging it over the back of her wooden chair.
“Mmm,” I agree, nodding. “Hopefully we’ll be just as busy tonight.”
She reaches across the table to squeeze my hand.
“We will be. You’ve done an excellent job.
” Mum picks up a menu as if she’s not been here enough to know it by heart.
“I never would have thought to create a stage area for live music, but you had a vision for Bowman’s, and you’ve made it a reality.
” Her expression turns wistful. “I wish your grandparents were here to see this. They’d be so impressed. ”
My throat tightens with emotion. While we’re in a much better place, her inability to let go of the past and how her parents used to do things was a constant source of conflict between us until I finally took over.
For Mum to say that my grandparents would approve of the bar’s transformation…
It’s not something I ever thought I’d hear. “I’m glad you think so.”
“I know so,” she assures me. Her expression morphs into that soft but stern look I think every mother has a version of.
“I also know your mind’s already running through everything you need to do to make sure tonight goes smoothly, but it’s important you make time to enjoy this moment.
” She flips open the small menu with a cheery grin.
“I might get the waffles with fruit and syrup. What do you think?”
“If that’s what you want.” It’s a far cry from her usual poached eggs on toast, and I’m not sure what’s inspired the change. My mother is a creature of habit.
Noting my surprise, she chuckles. “It’s a special occasion. What do you want? It’s on me.” I open my mouth to object, but she holds up a hand to silence me. “Don’t argue. Today is your day. I’m going to treat my son.” Her tone leaves no room for argument.
“Thanks. Waffles sound good.”