Chapter 27

“Yes,” I say, knowing I’m serious.

Still, trust is an elastic concept, and I’m not sure how far mine stretches.

I think he’s going to keep talking, but before he can, my phone rings. I grab my bag from the floor, rummage, and answer.

“Did I catch you at a good time?” Cass asks.

“We’re about to go grab a bite at Nick and Nikki’s,” I reply.

“‘We’re’—got it.” She draws it out. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going well.”

I glance at Marcus, who looks both curious and amused.

“Good? Really?”

A laugh escapes me. “Really. Who would’ve thought, huh?”

“How interesting,” Cass singsongs.

“Okay, subject change. What do you need?”

“I got an email from Ollie. He wants to meet Tuesday to talk franchising.”

“That’s fabulous.”

“I’m terrified. I don’t know what to ask. I’m not even sure I should do this. What if I screw it up? My dad spent his life paying the shop off in installments. What if I blow it trying to expand? I ca