Harmony Cabins (Finding Home 2)

Jack hesitated behind the registration desk. It wasn’t a surprise to see the chair of the Trinity Falls Sesquicentennial Steering Committee had returned. Doreen Fever was a determined woman.

“Afternoon, Doreen.” He knew why she was there. She wanted every citizen to be involved in the festivities surrounding the town’s 150th birthday. The problem was, Jack wasn’t a joiner.

“I’m still amazed by how much you’ve accomplished with the rentals in so little time.” Doreen gazed around the reception area.

“Thank you.”

Doreen was the sole candidate for mayor of Trinity Falls. She also was the artist behind the bakery operation of Books & Bakery, and the mother of Jackson’s former schoolmate, though she looked too young to have an only child who was just two years younger than he was. Her cocoa skin was smooth and radiant. Her short, curly hair was dark brown. And her warm brown eyes were full of sympathy. Jack didn’t want anyone’s sympathy. Not even someone as genuine and caring as Doreen.

“I hear you have a lodger.” Doreen folded her hands on the counter between them.

How did the residents of Trinity Falls learn everyone else’s business so fast? His guest hadn’t even been here a full day. “Not by choice.”

Confusion flickered across Doreen’s features before she masked it with a polite nod. “A young woman.”

“I noticed.”

“I’m glad to see the cabins’ renovations are going well and that you’re taking in customers.”

“Thank you.”

Doreen gave him a knowing smile. “The elementary school was grateful for your generous donation. I take it that was the check from your guest? Are you sure you don’t need that money to reinvest in the repairs?”

“The school needs the money more. I appreciate your stopping by, Doreen.” He turned to leave.

“Jack, you know why I’m here.” Doreen sounded exasperated.

Good. He could handle exasperation. Pity pissed him off.

He faced her again. “You know my answer.”

“The town will be one-hundred-and-fifty-years old on August ninth. That will be a momentous occasion, and everyone wants you to be a part of it.”

Jack shook his head. “You don’t need me.”

“Yes, we do.” Doreen’s tone was filled with dogged determination. “This sesquicentennial is a chance for Trinity Falls to raise its profile in the county and across the state. You, of all people, must have a role in the Founders Day Celebration.”

“That’s not necessary.”

“Yes, it is.” Doreen leaned into the desk. “This event, if done well, will bring in extra revenue.”

“I know about the town’s budget concerns. I have an online subscription to The Trinity Falls

Monitor.” Reading the paper online saved Jack from having to go into town or deal with a newspaper delivery person.

Doreen continued as though Jack hadn’t spoken. “If we host a large celebration with high-profile guests, we’ll attract more people. These tourists will stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and buy our souvenirs.”

“Great. Good luck with that.” He checked his watch for emphasis. It was almost two o’clock in the afternoon. “Anything else?”

She softened her voice. “I know that you’re still grieving Zoey’s death.”

“Don’t.” The air drained from the room.

“I can’t imagine how devastated you must feel at the loss of your daughter.”

“Doreen.” He choked out her name.

“We understand you need time to grieve. But, Jack, it’s been almost two years. It’s not healthy to close yourself off from human contact. People care about you. We can help you.”