Evelyn called out a greeting to them as they entered. “Welcome back, Rob.”
His sister glanced at him, a slight frown creasing her brow. “How do you already know people here in town and how do they know your name?”
“I’m just a friendly kind of guy.” He elbowed her as they walked over to Evelyn. “This is my sister, Violet. Vi, this is Evelyn.”
“Nice to meet you.”
“Oh, Evelyn. Thank you so much for the bread. It’s wonderful. What a nice gift.”
“I’m glad you liked it. Just a little something to welcome you to town,” Evelyn said as she led them to a table. “So you bought the old Murphy Resort, I hear.”
“I did.” Violet laughed and poked him. “Much to Rob’s chagrin. But it’s going to be great when we finish fixing it up.”
“And by we, she means me,” Rob said as he took his seat. Violet sent him an exasperated glare, and he grinned back at her.
Evelyn handed them menus, then pointed to the chalkboard. “Special today is meatloaf sandwich or BLT. We also have a chicken salad. And the regular items on the menu.”
“I’ll have the meatloaf sandwich and tea.” It sounded substantial, and he was famished.
“I’ll have the chicken salad and tea.” Violet looked around the cafe. “This place is so adorable. And look at all the sea glass in the vases. And the decorations. I just love it. I want the cottages to have this same welcoming, homey feel.”
“Thank you. We’re pretty proud of the cafe. Haven’t been open a year yet, but business is good.” Evelyn beamed at the praise. She had the warmest smile. Very welcoming. And friendly eyes that sparkled when she spoke. “I’ll go get your orders.”
She headed to the kitchen. Today her hair was pulled up in a twisted knot thing on top of her head. Her cheeks were slightly flushed. Probably from the heat in the kitchen.
“You’re staring.” Violet nudged his foot under the table.
“I am not.”
“Are so.”
“Whatever.” He rolled his eyes, but he knew full well he had been staring.
Evelyn returned with their tea. “Here you go. I’ll have your meals out in a jiffy. Melody is getting them ready.”
He took a sip of the tea. It was excellent, which didn’t surprise him.
“You two should save room for dessert. Fresh peach pie.”
“That I will. With a scoop of your delicious vanilla ice cream on top.” He smiled at Evelyn, and she rewarded him with a smile of her own. It wouldn’t take much to convince him to keep popping in here for meals.
Violet kicked him under the table, and he had to refrain from kicking her back. He was thematuresibling. His foot twitched under the table.
Evelyn went back to the kitchen, and he was disappointed that a new woman—Melody, she introduced herself—brought out their meals.
“I hope you enjoy your meals,” Melody said. “Evelyn said you bought Murphy’s place. I’m so glad someone is going to fix it up. It’s on such a lovely spot of the beach. The view is wonderful there.”
“See, Melody thinks I made a good decision to buy the place.” Violet sent him a gloating smile.
“I’m not sure that’s what she said exactly.” Was he going to have to permanently roll his eyes at his sister?
As Melody left, they turned to their lunches. His was delicious with generous portions which he managed to finish. Soon, Evelyn came out with their peach pie. He took one bite and realized he’d reached the ultimate in foodie pleasure. The peaches were just sweet enough with a hint of cinnamon. The crust was flakey and perfectly browned. “This is honestly the best peach pie I’ve ever tasted.”
“Thank you. It’s Grace Parker’s peach pie. My great-grandmother. Old family recipe.”
“Like the ice cream?”
“Exactly.” She nodded soberly, although her eyes crinkled as she hid a grin. “So, how are repairs going?”
