Though I’m stuffed, I know it will be a late night of studying, so I ride the extra two blocks to the gas station since I know we’re out of coffee at home. It was Amanda’s week to buy the staples, and well, I know how that goes. She probably spent her money while out last night.

I park my bike against the side of the building near the ice and peek through the window. If that guy is behind the counter, I’ve already decided I’ll suffer without the caffeine. I don’t want to deal with him tonight.

When I spy TJ, I’m relieved. Although that’s replaced with a feeling of disappointment by the absence of Harbor, which is completely ridiculous. It’s not like he’s a regular here. It was a one-time thing. Let it go.

I tug the door open, setting off the bell to chime above. TJ, the owner and the convenience store’s namesake, spots me when I pass the lottery ticket machine. “Lark, what brings you in tonight?”

“Coffee.” I trek straight for the aisle, hoping he has stocked a variety to choose from. “How are you?”

“Hanging in there. Debbie, that beagle down the road had a run-in with a porcupine a few days ago. Patsy asked me to deal with that disaster.”

I stop and turn back to ask, “How’s she doing now?”

“Patsy’s always been a hot mess.”

I laugh. “I meant Debbie, the dog.”

“The vet says she’ll heal right up and be fine.”

Scanning the aisle, I find the tiny coffee selection. “That’s good. She’s a cute dog.”

“She’s about to have another litter. Want one?”

I start to laugh. “I can barely pay my bills, TJ. I definitely can’t take care of a pet.”

“I hear you. Did you see I got pumpkin spice coffee?” The door chimes just as I bend down to see the bottom shelf with the new coffee. It’s a few dollars out of my league this trip. He adds, “Figured you’d like that.”

I grab the smallest and cheapest bag of coffee before heading to the counter. He rings me up, but when I reach into my pockets, I can cover the three dollars, but I’m short twenty-three cents. “I’ll try it after payday.” Glancing at the spare change tray, which I’ve probably donated enough change over the years to pay for a lot more than cheap coffee, I discover it empty this time. “I’m a little short, so I’ll find something else inst—”

“I’ll cover it.”

When I look behind me, I’m greeted with that smile that weakens my knees and the warmth of the fire lit in his brown eyes. I’d like to act like I’m not over the moon thrilled to see Harbor again, but I’m not that talented of an actress. But then I realize he’s bailing me out. So embarrassing. “It’s okay. I don’t need a handout.”

Harbor sets a bottle of fancy water on the counter and a pack of gum. Peppermint, my favorite flavor. “I owe you, and I always pay my debts.”