“It’s a rite of passage, Poppy.” Abner pats me on the shoulder before turning to go back into his office. “Since you aren’t swearing a blue streak or spitting mad, I’d say you passed with flying colors.”
Lou and Patrick are nodding.
“Umm, thanks?” I don’t know what to say.
“Wait until we show Mack this video,” Lou chuckles.
“Mack?” I straighten. “He knew about this?”
“‘Course. He planned out the whole thing. Too bad he couldn’t be here to see your live reaction. But at least we got it on video.”
I press my lips together. Maybe I should be offended. Maybe I should chew Lou and Patrick—and Abner—out for the PTSD I’m sure they just gave me. I swear, they scared thepiddlestraight out of me…because I no longer need to use the restroom. I could rant on them about how juvenile it is to pull a prank like that. How someone could have gotten hurt. I could have had a heart attack, for heaven’s sake!
But they are staring back at me with looks of such pride on their faces that my shoulders relax, and a laugh bubbles up from deep in my chest.
Before I know it, we’re all laughing together. I’m doubled over with tears streaming down my cheeks.
We watch the video four times, and each time, it gets funnier and funnier. My expression is priceless as I storm out of the bathroom, the door slamming the wall as I fling it wide.
Between gasps of air, Lou gives me a compliment that hits home, and I come close to hugging the man. “Welcome to Cashmere Cove, Poppy Kasper. You, my friend,” he says, “are a keeper.”
Toilet prank or not, that’s all I’ve ever wanted anyone to feel about me.
From: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Email 1
Dear Poppy,
I’m thrilled to hear you’re settling in to Cashmere Cove. You don’t have to thank me. You earned that job all on your own. I only made the initial connection. I have no doubt that you’ll crush it in your role.
Speaking of rolls…here’s an insider tip: be sure to stop in and see Inez at the Getaway Café. The cinnamon rolls are to die for (don’t tell my coach! ?).
To answer your question, I don’t know what it is about Cashmere Cove—beyond Inez’s pastries, of course—that makes it so special. I mean, no place is perfect, but there’s a lot of good to be had in my hometown. I’m looking forward to getting back for the wedding next month. To see the Cove and to see you.
I took your advice and looked up at the sky. You’re right. There’s something grounding about that exercise. I think I’ll make it a habit.
Before I sign off, I should give you a heads up that the Cashmere Cove faithful have a habit of breaking in new members of the community with some harmless pranks. Best to be on your guard!
Hugs,
Holland
From: [email protected]
Subject: Re: re: Email 1
Could have used that warning about eight hours sooner, Holland…
8
The Tricia Incident
Mack
