Page 22 of Axe-Rated Lumberjack

I’d simply been anticipating a quick solitary errand, and the possibility of spending our break together felt like something rather more interesting.

“That would be lovely,” I said.

Hudson smiled. “Good. I’ll drive. It’ll save us taking two vehicles for a sandwich and a few books.”

I saved our work, shut down the recording session, and checked that the equipment was safely idle before following him out.

As we left the cottage, I caught myself wondering whether I should have refreshed my lipstick.

Good grief.

At this rate, I’d need to hire someone to supervise my behavior around attractive men.

***

The Book Nook was even more charming inside than I’d expected.

Tall wooden shelves lined the walls, their upper sections reached by little rolling ladders. Comfortable chairs occupied the spaces between bookcases, and a display of autumn-themed novels stood beside the front window. The air carried the wonderful scent of paper, polished wood, and something freshly baked.

I’d already enjoyed a toasted sandwich at a nearby lunch counter, but apparently my appetite could be revived by the presence of books and baked goods.

Hudson held the door for me, and I stepped inside with the sort of reverence other people reserved for cathedrals.

A woman in a green cardigan looked up from arranging a display near the counter.

“Hudson! It’s nice to see you.”

“Hi, Esther. Thought I’d bring somebody by who appreciates a good bookstore.”

Her warm smile shifted to me.

“Well, you’ve certainly come to the right place. I’m Esther Shelly.”

“Peyton Appleby. It’s lovely to meet you.”

We shook hands, and I explained that I was visiting Maple Lane Falls for a work assignment.

“What kind of work do you do?” Esther asked.

“I’m an audiobook narrator. Mostly romance, although I’ve done mysteries and contemporary fiction, too.”

Her face brightened. “Oh, how wonderful! I’ve always thought a good narrator can make a familiar story feel new again.”

“That’s what I love about it. Sometimes changing the emphasis on a single word changes how you understand an entire conversation.”

Esther nodded. “And now I’m curious which books you’ve narrated. You’ll have to tell me before you leave.”

“I’d be happy to.”

Hudson stood beside me, looking amused.

“She’s very good at it,” he told Esther. “I’ve been getting lessons all morning.”

I turned toward him.

“You make that sound suspiciously like I’m running a remedial reading program.”

“Not at all. I’m learning a new trade. Turns out it’s harder than talking for a living, which is what I thought I was already doing.”