Page 92 of Tangled with the Tight End

I sink into my chair, enjoying time with the women I’ve known since childhood, and Hallie. She moved here last year.

Cass leans over when Emberleigh is talking about a situation that happened at the bakery this week. “You seem happy.”

“Aren’t I usually happy?”

“You are. But you seem more … content. Is it because you’re so busy with all your odd jobs?”

“I like working,” I tell her.

But even though I love being Winona for Hire, my odd jobs aren’t the main reason I’m happy.

When book club ends, I climb into the passenger seat of Cass’s car and send Declan a text. I had no reason to see him today. It’s my day off.

I missed him.

I know I shouldn’t miss him. He’s a patient. Sometime in the coming months he’ll be going back on the field full time. And this season of his life will be a vague memory.

But tonight? He’s still my patient.

Winona: How are you doing?

Declan: Much better. No pain. Just resting and keeping the ibuprofen flowing.

Winona: Good. I’m really glad to hear that.

Declan: How was your day?

Winona: Good. I helped set up for a wedding at the old Harlan barn. Jennifer hired me for the day.

Declan: Winona for Hire. A woman of many talents.

Winona: … or a woman who needs to pay her many bills.

Declan: First laugh of the day. Thank you.

It’s already dark outside and he hasn’t laughed all day?

Winona: That’s tragic. By the way, I got you something.

Declan: What is it?

Winona: A surprise. A good one.

Declan: Did I mention that I don’t love surprises?

Winona: You’ll love this one.

“Who are you texting?” Cass asks. “We were just with all our closest friends. You’re hunkered over your phone like it’s your job.”

“It is my job,” I tell her. “I’m texting Declan.”

“Is he okay?” her voice is riddled with concern.

“Yeah. He’s fine. Just hasn’t laughed all day.”

She screws her face up and stares at me. “Is that part of your job? Making him laugh?”

“I make him laugh. And … laughter is the best medicine.”