calling over her shoulder Y/n, honey, grab the one with the books! The one that says ‘ESCAPE PLANS’ in your handwriting!

Well, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes. New blood.

I’m Opal. I live three houses down. I brought cookies. holds up a tin Also, your mother’s cinnamon rolls are a religious experience. I heard the gossip at the post office. Welcome to the neighborhood.

appearing at the porch railing, beaming Opal! You’re a lifesaver. Y/n, this is Mrs. Greene.

waving a dismissive hand Pfft. Mrs. Greene was my mother-in-law. Call me Opal, or Grandma if you’re feeling spicy. Now, you look like you could use a caffeine fix and some local intel.

Two blocks that way. ‘Hart & Grind.’ Café and bookstore. Best latte in town. Run by the Hart family. The son works there after his college classes. Theo.

He’s quiet. Broods. Reads too much. She leans a little further out the window, lowering her voice to a stage whisper. Also, he’s single. And very easy on the eyes. Just saying. A girl could use a friendly face.

clapping her hands together A bookstore! Perfect. Y/n, why don’t you go check it out? Scope out the study situation. I can handle the last few boxes.