“Thanks.” Sophie took in the compliment for the umpteenth time today, wishing she felt as accomplished as she’d felt yesterday. She glanced toward the checkout counter where a long line snaked around the shelves. “Feel free to browse. I need to help with the registers.”

The afternoon hours passed quickly. Sophie was busy every moment, hand-selling books, chatting with customers, or answering staff questions. Worry swirled around her as four o’clock passed.

Ramona from Schooner’s appeared with a helper and numerous foil catering pans. The shop filled with the delicious aromas of grilled chicken skewers, meatballs, and seafood tartlets. As they set up along the far wall, people flowed into the shop. One moment there were a few people seated in the chairs and the next it was standing room only.

And it was still thirty minutes before Nathaniel was due to speak. Sophie was glad she’d lined up extra help to welcome people since Ellie and Amber were swamped at the registers.

A text came in. Sophie pulled out her phone, once again hoping it was Aiden, but it wasn’t. It was the publicist—he and Nathaniel had arrived and were waiting at the back door.

Sophie went to let them in. Everyone knew Nathaniel wrote under a pen name. Should she call him Nathaniel or Adam? Her legs wobbled at the thought of meeting the famous author.

As soon as she opened the door her eyes homed in on Nathaniel. “Welcome! Please come in. I’m so glad you could come.”

With short brown hair and faded blue eyes, hiding behind a pair of smart glasses, Nathaniel Quinn looked just like his publicity photo. He extended a hand. “I’m Nathaniel. Thank you so much for having me.”

“Sophie Lawson, owner of the shop. And it’s my pleasure, truly. I love your books, and you’ve got a lot of fans coming tonight.”

“Thank you.” He poked his glasses into place. “This is my wife, Molly.”

“Hi, Molly.”

The pretty brunette’s eyes sparkled with life. “Nice to meet you, Sophie. I come along to support my husband when I can.” She lowered her voice to a whisper. “But it’s also a terrific excuse to check out another bookshop.”

Sophie laughed. “Well, feel free to browse to your heart’s content, and let me know if you have any questions.”

Nathaniel gestured to the shorter blond-haired man. “This is my publicist, Drew. I believe you spoke with him on the phone.”

“Yes, of course.” Sophie shook his hand and exchanged pleasantries.

“Today’s your first official day then?” Molly asked. “I can still smell raw lumber and just the faintest hint of paint—my siblings and I renovated the inn I own, so I’m well acquainted with the smells of construction.”