3.My partner in crime
1299 Words
Meghan’s P.O.V.
I balanced the box of freshly-baked and overly big-sized cinnamon rolls in one hand, using my free hand to tug at the hem of my dress as I walked down the hallway of the elderly home. I wasn’t usually one for dresses, but today felt special, and if Gran wanted to see me “looking like a lady,” I would indulge her. Besides, I loved Gran dearly, quirks and all.
I knocked lightly on the room number she had sent me, and a familiar, feisty voice called from inside,
“It’s open! You’d better not be some solicitor—I’m armed with a fly swatter and I know how to use it!”
I laughed, nudging the door open.
“Gran, it’s me! I come in peace—with your cinnamon rolls.”
Gran appeared from the living room, hands on her hips and a twinkle in her eye.
“Well, if it isn’t little Meghan looking all grown-up and pretty as a peach! Good to know you can still wear a dress.”
“Only for you, Gran,” I grinned, setting the box down on the small table in the entryway.
“I didn’t want to disappoint.”
Gran waved a dismissive hand as if I would never be able to disappoint her, but she was clearly pleased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
“Well, sit down and stay awhile. You’ve been back in town long enough to have a little chat with your old Gran before we leave.”
I followed her into the cozy, knick-knack-filled living room, where a well-loved couch awaited. I sank into it, feeling the slight creak of the springs that had surely been there since before I was born. Gran settled in across from me, reaching over to open the cinnamon rolls with a grin of pure joy.
“Look at these beauties. I could kiss your aunt for keeping them exactly the same. Almost as sweet as you coming all the way here to bring them to me.”
I laughed.
“Aunt Beth said she’d even make them extra-large for you, and I promised I’d deliver them myself, just like you asked.”
Gran waved a hand, dismissing her words.
“Of course you did. You’re my favorite, you know.”
“Didn’t know I had any other contenders, but thanks,” I teased, reaching over for one of the rolls. We started chatting about the usual things—life in Fairview these days, the bakery, and my parents—until Gran’s expression brightened as she leaned forward, as though about to deliver exciting gossip.
“Oh, and have you heard about Skye?”
“Skye?” I asked, surprised by the jolt of nostalgia at hearing his name.
“Yes, Skye,” Gran said, rolling her eyes.
“Sweet little Skye—oh, don’t tell me you’ve forgotten him. He’s a big-shot artist these days, with his own show up at the art center. Quite the impressive thing too. Which is why you’re my plus one, we are going over there to watch tonight,”
“I didn’t know that,” I replied, warmth spreading through me at the thought of Skye’s success.
“I always knew he was talented, though. Even back in the day, he was drawing all the time.”
Gran’s eyes softened.
“Yes, he’s my little artist. And happier than I’ve ever seen him too. He’s got a lovely girlfriend now, and they’re both over the moon. Cute little thing, really. He’s got that glow, you know?” She grinned knowingly.
“So happy, he doesn’t even have time to come see me as much, and I forgive him because that’s just how smitten he is.”
“I’m so glad he’s doing well,” I said, genuinely pleased.
“And he deserves someone wonderful.”
“Oh, he does.” Gran’s eyes sparkled with affection.
“But I’ll admit I worry about his brother. Blade… now that’s another story entirely.”
At the mention of Blade’s name, I felt my stomach drop. I hadn’t thought about him in ages—or so I had told myself. But here, back in Fairview, his name had this strange pull on my heartstrings. I took a slow breath, forcing a smile.
“How’s he doing these days?”
Gran leaned back, her face a mix of fondness and exasperation.
“Same as always, that boy. Handsome and dangerous as ever, though he could use a haircut. But he’s just… floating, you know? Works as a firefighter and keeps to himself too much. Not really serious about much of anything, and definitely no one in his life to soften him up a bit.”
“That sure sounds like Blade,” I said softly, remembering Blade as he was back then—charming, infuriating, and constantly in trouble.
Gran clucked her tongue.
“Always worried about him, that one. There’s something in him that feels a bit… stuck, I guess. And I wish he’d let himself get unstuck, find some happiness. But that’s Blade for you. Hard as nails, won’t let anyone in. But he’s got a good heart, that much I know.” She sighed, shaking her head.
There was a long silence, but then Gran’s eyes narrowed with a mischievous grin as she leaned in close.
“Now, ready to go and look at an art exhibition from my grandson?”
“Sure,” I nodded, getting up from my seat
“I tell you—I am hopeful there might be another handsome young artist present tonight, someone who can finally break the boredom of my day-to-day life in this senior home. No offense to Mr. Walsh down the hall, but the man nods off before they even dim the lights for movie night.”
I bit back a laugh.
“You’re hoping for a dashing artist to sweep you off your feet tonight, Gran?”
“You bet I am!” Gran declared, raising an eyebrow and giving me a playful nudge as she wrapped her arm in mine.
“There’s no harm in a little harmless flirting, you know. I’d die of boredom otherwise!”
“Gran, you’re terrible!” I laughed.
“You’re going to be the most popular lady out there, I'm sure of it.”
“Aren’t I always?” Gran muttered.
“But really, you should see Skye’s work—it’ll be amazing. And who knows, you might catch the eye of one of these artists yourself. You’re young and lovely and don’t have to settle for boring old farts like we do.”
“Oh, Gran!” I managed between laughs.
“I’ll be there for Skye and to show my support. But you might have better luck at the artist-wrangling than me.”
Gran gave me a conspiratorial smile.
“I’m just glad to have you back, sweetheart. But don’t you worry, you’re not getting out of this just yet. I’m going to make sure you enjoy every bit of your new life here—maybe even reconnect with some old friends along the way.”
At that, I only smiled, though my mind still lingered on Blade. That name, that face, and the stories of all the trouble we had gotten into when we were still kids drifted right back to me, clear as day. Gran’s words hung in the air, but I tried not to let myself overthink. After all, this was a new beginning for me, one that didn’t have to include people or memories from before.
Gran gave her a knowing look, but thankfully didn’t press.
“Now, ready to be my partner in crime for tonight?” Gran asked me, to which I nodded.
“Always.”
- Writer
