"I've got time, and I know how to use a hammer,” I say, feeling a shift inside. Maybe it's time to start fixing more than just old mistakes.

Nick looks at me for a moment, then nods. "All right. How about you swing by the bar tomorrow and I can show you what we're working with?"

"Sounds good,” I say.

"Well, that was easier than I thought it'd be trying to find someone. Maybe I should swing by bookstores to find more helping hands. I'm going to head out, Uncle. I will see you tonight, and Nate, I'll see you tomorrow.”

"Don't work too hard, boy." Alfie says.

Nick gives him a gleeful smile. It's an exchange a doting father would give a son and it makes me wonder what the story is behind these two to have formed such a tight bond. I'd be lying if I said there wasn't a hint of jealousy bubbling underneath the surface.

Alfie, watching me with that knowing grin as Nick leaves, breaks the silence. "That nephew of mine works too hard. It's good he's got help now."

I nod, feeling a bit more purposeful.

Alfie wraps the book I've chosen, his hands steady and experienced. "You know what I believe?" His voice draws me in.

I lean on the counter, curious. "What's that?"

"We meet the most important people when we least expect it," he says, his tone soft yet certain. "And often, what you need isn't a thing—it's a person. A person who'll help you uncover the answers to the things you're searching for." He winks at me with a sly grin.

His words weigh heavy on me.

"What if you're too screwed up to keep them around?" The question slips out, raw and honest.

Alfie pauses, his task momentarily forgotten. "Healing doesn't mean the damage never existed, son. It means it no longer controls you." His gaze is piercing, seeing through me. "Remember that."

I nod, struggling to find my voice as he hands me the packaged book.

Handing him a fifty, my mind races with his insights. "Keep the change, please."

Alfie smiles, gratitude spread across his face.

As I head for the door, Alfie calls out, stopping me in my tracks, "Nate, those voices in your head? They're just echoes of past pains. Don't let them win."

Turning back, I manage a tight smile.

I step into the sunlight, feeling a strange mix of burden and relief.

24. Sunrises And Cinnabons

CHAPTER 24

SUNRISES AND CINNABONS

NORA