33

Finn sipped a second cup of tea and listened to the niece and aunt bounce ideas off each other. They had a matched intensity. Perhaps it was genetic?

“What do you think Finn? Should we raise our prices for the cookie sale?” Lulu asked.

“From the pictures Harper shared with us, I’m not quite sure how you put a price tag on the artistry.”

“See, Aunt Lulu, Finn agrees.”

“However, as the event is a way to reach out to the community while raising funds for clean water, I understand why you want to keep the prices at their historical levels,” Finn said.

“See, Darcy, Finn agrees with me.”

A chuckle rumbled through Darcy’s chest and over her lips. “Aunt Lulu, he just agreed and disagreed with both of us. The most politically correct pastor answer I’ve ever heard.” Darcy swiveled to him. “You might be in the right job after all.”

“But Finn,” Lulu said. “You do agree with me, don’t you?”

“Ladies, I have truly enjoyed visiting, but I must get to the church’s Christmas Festival booth. The small groups are rotating each of the twelve nights, but for the preview, Uncle Tom and I are in charge.” He set his cup on the wide tray and stepped to Lulu’s hospital bed. “You be good, Lu. I expect to hear excellent reports from the physical therapist and your nurses.”

Lulu squeezed his hand. “I’ll be a perfect angel.”

“Ha!” Darcy said with a snort.

“Finn, didn’t Tessa write one of those angels to be strong willed and always correct?”

“Yes, she did. I believe her name is Proper.”

Lulu nodded. “See, Darcy darling. I’ll be a proper angel.”

Darcy sighed. “Finn, let me get your coat.” She padded out of the room leaving him and Lulu.

“You like her. And don’t give me one of those two-step-pastor-answers.”

“How could I not, when she reminds me so much of one of my favorite people on the planet?”

“I can tell a few days with your influence and she’s already starting to settle.”

“I can’t take credit. Darcy’s as strong willed as you. She has decided she’ll make the play the best it can be and help to get you well. Beyond the next couple weeks, I don’t think I have much influence.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure.”

Finn ignored the slight twist in his heart at the thought he had any impact on Darcy. Her aunt was likely living a senior fantasy of her family all tucked into Gibson’s Run.

He kissed her forehead. “You take care, my friend. I need you.”

“Don’t worry. One little fall won’t get me.”

Walking into the entryway, Darcy held his coat folded over her arm—a soft smile on her lips. “She loves you very much. I wanted you to have a moment without me.”

“Thank you,” he said, slipping on his boots. “It’s good to see she hasn’t lost a step of stubbornness. That’ll help her heal.”

“I hope so. Her stubbornness might send me on a five-mile run fueled by frustration, but her always-right mentality will definitely help her heal.”

She handed him his coat. His hand clasped her smooth palm sending a shiver through his system. Her head shot up and she locked her gaze with his. Clear wonder flittered through her amber eyes. His breath lingered on his lips unable to fully exhale or inhale.

“Well…I guess you need to go.”

Nodding, Finn couldn’t seem to move. His hand stilled over hers unwilling to break the tender connection. He leaned forward, narrowing his focus to her slightly parted lips. She’s leaving. He released her hand as if her touch was fire. Tugging on his coat, he hoped the heat burning his neck would be hidden by the puffy down. “Thanks for the tea.”

“Anytime.” Darcy dropped her focus to the floor lacing her arms across her middle.

“I’ll see you at the church tomorrow for practice?”

“Yep.”

“Good bye, Darcy.”

Lifting her glassy gaze to meet his, she whispered, “Good bye, Finn.”