After two afternoons at the bookstore, Clare felt confident she could handle her duties behind the counter. The small shop had a surprisingly complex computer system, but Bea was patient as she showed Clare how to ring up sales, record new inventory, and locate items within the store. She learned to keep the coffeepot full and the woodstove stoked. More than anything, she discovered the tiny bookstore was a hub of activity in the small town. Bea knew everyone and introduced her new employee to many of Stowe’s year-round residents. She also invited Clare to attend her Thursday-evening book club meeting.

“I’d love to, but I haven’t read the book,” Clare said.

“Don’t worry about it,” Bea said. “The book is the least of what we discuss at those meetings. Plus, I want you to meet the rest of my friends.”

Clare gladly accepted her invitation.

Aidan O’Malley was scheduled to start work at the house in a few days. The two other quotes she’d gotten had come in lower than his, but Bea had such high praise for his work and his reputation that Clare consulted with her brother, and he agreed the extra money was worth it.

“I just hope he leaves his snarky personality at the door,” Clare said to Bea after she decided to hire Aidan.

Bea chuckled. “It’s part of the package. He’s one sexy devil, isn’t he?”

“I didn’t notice.”

“Liar!”

“You said he’s a celebrity around here. With that personality, I can’t imagine he has many friends.”

“Oh, he has lots of friends. He’s a celebrity with the women.”

“I’m sure he gets around.”

“Actually, he doesn’t. They chase him relentlessly, but in all the years I’ve known him, I don’t think he’s been seriously involved with anyone. His resistance makes him even more appealing to the ladies in town. The thrill of the chase.”

“God, I hate that. Women can be so pathetic.”

“You may be singing a new tune after you’ve had him underfoot for a couple of months.”

Clare made a face of distaste. “I doubt it.”

“We’ll see,” Bea said with a knowing smile.

Clare was delighted to find Diana Cummings from the diner among the women who gathered at the Book Nook for the meeting on Thursday. Clare was a frequent customer at McHugh’s and enjoyed talking to Diana.

“Hi, Clare,” Diana said. “Bea told me she’d roped you into our group.”

“It’s nice of you to include me.”