Sophie’s lips stretched into a smile. “You’re taking her side! And after I agreed to go out with you and everything.”

“The woman set me up with you—how can I find fault with her?”

Sophie laughed. “Touché. How can I argue with that? Now tell me how Bear’s doing. Any more squirrel adventures to report?”

“Oh, every day is a squirrel adventure for Bear. I think he’s only toying with them, though. He never catches them but seems immeasurably proud just to chase them away for me.”

“Pippa runs away at the sight of blowing sea oats, but she yips at strangers as if they’re the devil. She’s very slow to warm up to people.” She instantly thought of the dog’s warm reception to Aiden, then shook the thought from her head.

“So I shouldn’t be offended if she hates me on sight?”

“If she does, I’m sure she’ll come around soon enough.”

“We should get our canine companions together. I wonder how they’d like each other.”

The front door opened and Aiden entered. His dark curls were windswept, his expression unreadable. She was surprised when his girlfriend didn’t appear behind him. She’d assumed the woman would end up staying the night—and Sophie hadn’t been anticipating awkward small talk.

Aiden gave Sophie a little wave and headed upstairs. What had happened on the beach? Maybe the woman felt more comfortable staying at a hotel.

She realized Joshua had just spoken. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”

“I was saying Bear would probably slobber all over Pippa and possibly trample her. He tends to forget how big he’s grown. He still jumps into my lap when I’m in the recliner.”

“Oh my.” Sophie tried to smother her yawn. “I’m sorry. I’m not bored, I promise.”

“But you are tired, no doubt. I should let you get to bed. I just wanted to check in and see how your shop’s progressing.”

“That’s very kind of you. But, yes, it has been a long day.”

“I’ll call you soon, if that’s all right.”

“I’d like that. Good night.”

“Good night, Sophie.”

chapter twenty-seven

Aiden’s face fell as his gaze drifted around Sophie’s office. “I’ve never seen so many books in one room.”

“You say that as if it’s a problem.”

“Only if you have to price them all.”

The windows were open, the temperatures mild, and a refreshing breeze ruffled the gauzy curtain. Sophie sat across from Aiden, her foot propped on a bucket. First thing this morning they’d stopped at the pharmacy for a brace, which helped stabilize her ankle. She’d sent Joshua a text thanking him for the idea.