Chapter 5

Gabriel

I’m happy I have something lined up for Monday with Skye, even if she is only here for a short time. It might just leave me some time up my sleeve to figure something out more permanent.

The next day, Trin and I head to the bake sale. I have a ton of merch in the car that Georgia wanted for the stall. My sister, Celeste, Trudy, Mom and Aunt Patti were cooking up a storm last night for the stall. I think Hartley may have also gotten roped in somewhere down the line. The women in this family are bossy.

“Are we going to see the puppies today?” Trin asks me when we’re halfway there.

I smile. “Not today, baby.”

“When?”

I glance at her delicate frame in the rearview mirror where she’s strapped into her car seat. “Soon.”

“When soon, Daddy?”

I know she’s going to win out on me any day now. It’s all she’s been talking about for weeks.

“We’ll see. We have to find one first.”

“Emma has Gizmo. He’s a really cute puppy.”

“I know, darling. Maybe we will look in the shelter. There might be a puppy that doesn’t have a home that needs one.”

She beams up at me.

“How does that sound, princess?”

“Good, Daddy.”

Oh, she wins my heart every time she calls me that.

She’s such a sweet soul.

“Are you going to help walk the new puppy every day, help me feed it and teach them new things?”

I glance in the rearview mirror to see her nodding enthusiastically.

“I will, I promise.”

“Good, then it’s settled.”

“Is Uncle Gray-Gray at the bake sale?” she asks, moving onto something else already.

I don’t know why he’s her favorite uncle, but it’s always been that way.

“I’m not sure, princess. But Uncle Brooklyn and Blake will be there.”

Blake is Brooklyn’s ten-year-old daughter. He split with his wife Eden a few years ago, but they still remain good friends after the most amicable split in history.

“Yay!” She claps her hands together.

She’s taken to dressing herself and finding her own outfits lately. And today, sure enough, she’s gone for her pink sparkly tutu again over her leggings and a t-shirt.

I still do her hair — and I have to say I’ve gotten better at it over the years with some practice — and maybe a little help from my sister. It’s all been a learning curve ever since I became a single dad.

I’ve had to figure every little detail out myself. And I can’t say it’s been easy, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. We have formed a bond that can never be broken.

“You can show Blake your new Bunnykins.” She loves dragging around her giant bunny rabbit she’s named Bunnykins. I got it for her last birthday.

“I think Blake will like Bunnykins!” She giggles.

“I think so too.”. I have to agree with Gray when I say he’s been pretty loved up lately.

The Bake’ n’ Shake is usually a big annual fundraising event in town. Anyone who is anyone will be there. It’s not usually my thing, but I promised Georgia I’d make an appearance, and it’s for a good cause.

The stalls are all set up in the town square; they close the street off and everything. I’m able to get part way through the barricade in my truck before I have to park on the side street. Sliding out, I collect my daughter from the back as she waits on the sidewalk. I unload the boxes onto a pulley in the back to cart the merch to the girls’ stall. I take Trinity’s hand as we cross the road.

“Holey moley, you girls were busy yesterday,” I say when we find the gazebo. The girls have already set it up with the fruits of their labor; cupcakes and cookies galore. It makes my mouth water.

“Uncle B-B!” Trinity grabs onto Brooklyn’s leg and he carries her around while she laughs.

“There’s every cupcake known to mankind.” Brooklyn grins. When Trinity finally lets go, he scoops her up in the air. “How is my favorite little firecracker?”

She giggles, “Good!” and tries to grab his cowboy hat. Settling her down, he helps me unload the merch from the trolley.

“You did good,” I say to Georgia.

“Thanks, glad you like it.” Georgia smiles. “We spent the better half of yesterday getting it all finished. I’m so exhausted.”

The bake-a-thon took place in Mom’s kitchen, but I wasn’t there long enough to test any samples.

“Hope you brought spares!” I holler as Trinity runs over to Blake. She’s standing with her mom, Eden, and their little dog Noodle. She’s helping Mom and Aunt Patti unload the cupcakes from the cooler.

“Maybe.” Georgia waggles her eyebrows.

“She might actually charge you for them,” Trudy jokes. “All in the name of charity.”

I smile because I wouldn’t put it past my little sister. “Trin, you stay with Blake and Aunty Eden while I unload the rest of the truck, okay?”

“Okay, Daddy.” My mom picks her up for a hug and she wraps her arms and legs around her like a koala, hanging onto Bunnykins’ ears all the while.

Brooklyn walks with me to the truck to get the rest of the merchandise.

“Haven’t seen Eden around for a while,” I say as we walk.

“Yeah, she’s been busy,” he sighs. “She’s just been getting through the wedding season.”

“Have you talked to her yet about the event planning for next year?”

I’m talking about the old barn on our property that Mom and Georgia-Blue decided to renovate this year. They designed everything, but Callan has done most of the work; replacing beams, sanding back and restraining the old floorboards, putting in new windows — that kind of thing.

Eden worked for an events business for many years, but branched out running her own show and organizes weddings, parties and events. Georgia, with the help of Brooklyn, has been trying to get her to come work for us.

Our plan is to cater for weddings and functions onsite. We will install a huge commercial kitchen this fall, ready for the spring. Everyone is excited about it, but it also means finding a chef and more staff.

Georgia is currently working on advertising on social media so we’re ready for next season, and I don’t think it’s a bad idea. We’ll have everything ironed out by then.

The barn has been on the property for over a hundred years. It was just a little weather-beaten and decrepit, but Georgia got the inspiration from watching one of those southern renovating shows she likes, and nothing could stop her after that.

I do love the idea. I think rustic weddings on the family farm are going to be really popular. It’s unique, and there’s nothing else like it in Stoney Creek — or the surrounding towns. Callan custom crafted some large, round oak tables that can be folded away when they aren”t needed, along with a long head table for the bridal party. Of course, there’s still a lot to do. The place has been a money pit thus far, but we’re hoping that the venue will attract new clientele.

Mom and Georgia have already agreed to handle all the bookings and deal with all the clients — curating their special day to perfection. I’m not opposed to any of it. It will be another massive income stream for BBB.

The surrounding tree line of oaks stretch for miles, along with the Stoney Creek, which runs through the property, making it the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. The sunsets here are second to none.

“I talked to her a couple of times and she was interested,” Brooklyn says. “I’m sure it can only help her expand her business even more. She has a great reputation for putting events together. I know she’ll be perfect.”

I scratch my chin. “I know it’s seasonal, but there’s so much planning that goes into these things. I’m sure she’d have enough to do during the off season. Plus, she would still be planning events outside our venue and doing her own thing,” I say. “Some guests may even go for a winter wedding extravaganza. Or we could offer winter retreats.”

“I’m sure they do those in Europe,” Brooklyn chortles. “Why not Stoney Creek?”

“Exactly.”

“I think with someone like Eden at the helm, events could really go somewhere.”

“What will it take to get her on board?” I ask as we approach my truck.

“Nothing a bit of bribery from her ex-husband couldn’t fix.”

I roll my eyes. It’s no secret that he and Eden have always done the right thing by Blake and remained friendly during their split. But Gray and I have always secretly thought Brooklyn still holds a flame for his ex-wife.

They were young when they got together and had Blake — I guess the pressures of keeping it all together got to them. Some things just don’t work out, and it’s a shame because I always thought they were perfect for each other.

“And how do you plan on doing that?” I chuckle. “I think Eden is well aware of your bribery, as you call it. I think she’d have a pretty good clue when you’re trying to butter her up.”

“Well, it’s been a while. Maybe she’s forgotten.”

“Is she still dating that guy from out of town?”

Brook bristles next to me as I give him a puzzled look. Brook is never thrown off by anything, so I don’t understand his reaction.

I clear my throat. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

“Some asshole from Savannah, Georgia,” he mutters.

“How do you know he’s an asshole?”

“I just do. Anyone who goes by the name Kirk is obviously a complete douchebag.”

“Alright, alright, don’t get your panties in a twist.” I hold my hands up in surrender. “I didn’t realize it was a big issue who she’s dating.”

“Well, it wasn’t.” He scratches the back of his head, avoiding eye contact.

“Until now?”

He gives me an unamused look. “Yes, until now. Things seem to be getting serious with them.”

“And that’s an issue?”

He sighs. It’s unusual for him to be so uptight about anything. Brooklyn is the happy-go-lucky Bassett sibling. Not much rattles his cage. “Look, I don’t know why it’s an issue. I guess because she hasn’t had any serious contenders over the years. She barely dated for the first two after we split up; we were both intent on keeping Blake’s life as normal as possible.”

“Pity you can’t say the same,” I joke, closing the trunk now we have everything we need.

He rolls his eyes at me. “Thanks, bro. Not helping.”

“Just keeping it real.”

“Anyway,” he sighs. “What I’m trying to say is I don’t like the fact she’s getting serious with this guy from out of town. He could be a fucking creep for all we know. And how well does she even know this jerk? Is he going to be spending time around Blake? He could be a serial killer for all I know.”

I ignore his knee-jerk reaction. “Didn’t she meet him online?”

“Some shit like that.”

“Well, those things don’t always tend to work out. Maybe it’ll fizzle out on its own, then you can swoop in and save the day.”

“Wouldn’t that be crazy.” He takes his cowboy hat off briefly, running a hand through his hair. “I don’t want to save the day. I just want her to be safe.”

I stop walking for a second to look at him. “Brook, I was joking. Fuck, do you still have feelings for her?”

“No, it’s not like that. I mean, maybe. I don’t know. This is all so sudden. I mean, what if they’ve had sex?”

It’s not often I see my brother in a tangle, so I know this must be serious.

“Jesus Christ. It’s been five years. Of course she’s had sex!”

“Yeah, let’s not go there. I don’t want to think about it.” He seems to be really struggling with it.

“Fuck, Brooklyn.”

“I know. Trust me, it’s come as a shock to me, too.”

“How did this all start?”

“Well, Blake said they were all meeting up last weekend. She gives me a full report on what’s going on when she’s at her mom’s place.”

I chuckle. I have no doubt that’s true.

“And things apparently went well. Blake said he was nice. Can you believe this shit?”

“Fuck, you’re jealous!” I laugh.

“No, I’m not fucking jealous. I’m just protecting my ex-wife and my child.” I never thought I’d see the day when Brooklyn was this agitated, especially over Eden. “What do we even know about this guy??

“I’m sure you’ll be able to get to know him if things keep going well with him and Eden.”

“Would you please shut the fuck up?”

I pat him on the back. “Sorry, bro. I actually am trying to help.”

“I’d prefer it if you kept your opinions to yourself at this particular juncture.”

I hold up a hand in surrender. “Look, if you have feelings for Eden, you need to address them. Possibly even to her. That might be a good place to start.”

“Yeah. That’s probably the last thing I’m gonna do.”

I’m about to ask him why the hell not when Blake and Trinity come running up to us.

“Uncle Gabe?” Blake pants, her cheeks pink from exertion. They’ve been chasing each other around the stalls.

“Yeah, honey?”

“Trinity says you’re getting a dog?”

“That’s right, sweetheart. We just have to find the right one.”

“Can I help pick one out?” She looks up at her dad, hopeful. “Dad, can we get a dog?”

“Your mom has little Noodle, sweetheart.” The little white Maltese Shih Tzu that barely leaves her side.

“I know, but I meant a dog at your place, too, Dad. Please, please can we?”

“Now that’s not a bad idea,” I laugh, giving Brook an elbow in the ribs.

“Don’t give her any ideas,” he mutters. “One dog is enough.”

“How old is Noodle now?” I ask Blake.

“She just turned five.” Blake still has hope in her eyes. “She’s so sweet Uncle Gabe!”

I chuckle. “I’m sure she is.”

Brooklyn loves animals. In fact, his place is full of stray or abandoned horses he’s rescued and then can’t bear to part with. He also has a pet pig, Mandy, a donkey called Sawyer, and a couple of goats I don’t know the names of. Out of all the kids in the family, Brooklyn was always the one to bring home injured birds and animals. I always said he should’ve been a vet.

“I’m surprised you don’t have a dog,” I add, just as we get back to the table. “It’s like a zoo at your place.”

“What’s one more right?” He chuckles.

Eden turns around. “Hey, Gabe.”

I give her a hug. “How are you doing?”

She smiles. “I’m doing fine. What’s this about a dog?”

Georgia begins unloading things from the pulley before we can blink.

“I was just saying to Brooklyn that he should get a dog, too.” I give him a chin lift.

She smiles. Noodle is asleep in the little doggie pouch she has slung across her body. You wouldn’t even know she was there. “That’s not a bad idea.” She looks up at Brooklyn. “Then he or she could have play dates with Noodle.”

“I’m not getting a dog right now,” Brooklyn affirms. “We were talking about Gabe and Trin getting a new four-legged friend.”

“Oh, you’re getting a dog?” Eden smiles, the curls of her auburn hair bobbing as she talks.

“Yes. Trin has been asking me for ages,” I sigh. “The pressure finally got too much.”

“Hopefully she won’t want a Great Dane,” Brooklyn chuckles.

“Hmm. I hadn’t thought of that.” I rub my hand over my chin. “Anyway, Brook tells me you all went down to Georgia recently.”

“Yeah, we went to meet Kirk,” Blake helpfully puts in, hearing our conversation on her way past to help put out more cupcakes.

“Thank you, Blake.” Eden looks at her daughter quickly, her cheeks flushing slightly. I think she’s a little embarrassed. “And yes, we did, Gabe. It’s lovely down there.” Her eyes shift to Brooklyn as he pretends to be busy. I know sure as shit he’s listening.

“I took Trin when she was three for a little road trip. It’s exquisite,” I say. “How are things going, anyway?”

I see Brooklyn in my peripheral vision, giving me a warning look. Well, he can thank me later for getting information straight from the horse’s mouth. I’m not one to mess around with words.

“Things are good.” She nods. “He’s a nice guy. I guess time will tell. Ooh, that reminds me, Brook? I’m wanting to get my passport for a trip next year I’m thinking about taking.”

“Vacation?” he asks.

“Yeah. I haven’t had one in a while.”

“You and me both. Is Blake going?”

“Possibly. I don’t know the details yet, just something I’m thinking of.”

“So what does getting your passport have to do with me?”

“I need a copy of the divorce papers because my old passport is in my maiden name. I’ve misplaced mine. In fact, I don’t even think I got a copy after you lodged them.”

“Sure. I’ll take a look at home.” I know by his tone he’s wondering if Kirk will be going on this vacation she’s not saying much about.

I watch the two of them work together at helping set up the rest of the stall. She laughs at something he says and it makes me wonder why the heck neither of them sees what I do.I mean, Brook seems to be having some kind of back and forth revelation, but it’s plain as day to me.

“Hey, you just missed Skye.” Georgia-Blue breaks my reverie.

“What? In the two seconds that I was gone?”

“She’s setting up a stall with her Gran,” she says. “Did you call her yet?”

“Yes. Well, I sent a text. I’m interviewing her on Monday.”

“Good.” Georgia smiles happily. “She’s cute too, Gabe. You better make sure if she gets the job — you keep your hands off the help.”

I laugh, trying to imagine such a thing. “I think I can restrain myself. She’s the nanny. It’s not a marriage proposal.”

“Uh, huh? Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

I’m looking forward to meeting Skye and I hope she works out for the summer, but cuteness hasn’t been a factor in my decision making when it comes to childcare for my daughter. After all, Geraldine is older than my mom.

As long as she’s good with my daughter and Trinity likes her, that’s all that matters.

I’m a hundred percent certain I can keep my hands off the help. But now I’m going to have to wander past her stall, just to get a look at her.