Sunrise on Cedar Key by Terri Dulong

think?”
    â€œI do. I always had bowls of it around my apartment, and I normally have lavender incense burning when I read my cards.”
    â€œYour cards?”
    Damn. Why did I mention that? He’ll probably think I’m a total fruitcake . “Ah ... well ... yeah, I read my tarot cards. Are you familiar with those?”
    â€œAre those the things with quite vivid pictures on them and people use them to tell their future?”
    I nodded. “Yeah, all the women in my family have used the tarot, so guess I followed in their footsteps.” He didn’t seem surprised.
    â€œMy grandmother always used to read her cards and those of people in the village. So do you do it just as a hobby or are you quite good at it?”
    I laughed. “I’d say it’s more than a hobby and I think I’m usually pretty good reading them. Did your grandmother read yours?”
    Lucas took a sip of coffee before answering. “No. As a small child and teenager I always wanted her to—but she said I didn’t need to know my future. I should just live it.”
    I found this interesting, because many times if a reader senses something negative or disturbing from somebody’s vibes or aura, rather than bring forth this information with the cards they might refrain from reading them. Is that why Lucas’s grandmother had refused? I realized I knew very little about him.
    â€œWell, I’d say you’re doing just that— living it.” I knew he wasn’t presently married but wondered if he had been when he lived in France.
    â€œYes, I try. Life is very fragile. We have to make the most of the moments we’re given, don’t you think?”
    â€œI absolutely do.” His tone had become pensive, and I thought it best to change the subject. “Are you all set for your grand opening on Sunday?”
    â€œYes. I’m going into Gainesville Friday to pick up the wine and cheese.”
    â€œMy aunt and I are looking forward to coming. Oh, I almost forgot ... my sister, Chloe, is arriving on Friday. She’ll be staying with my aunt. Unfortunately, her marriage has broken up and she’s relocating here. Would it be okay if she comes with us on Sunday?”
    Lucas’s expression looked genuinely pained. “I’m very sorry to hear that, but how nice she can rely on you and your aunt to help her through this difficult time. And yes, by all means, bring her to the grand opening.”
    â€œThanks. By the way, is it a secret or can you share what you’re thinking of doing with the other room?” I asked, looking at the archway.
    Lucas laughed. “Oh, it’s not a secret. Well, my first idea was to simply add more bookshelves and seating areas for patrons. And then I thought it might be nice to have a coffee café—you know, like the large bookstore chains have. But I didn’t want to take away business from you.”
    â€œThat was really nice of you to consider that, but as you know—my coffee shop is now history. Actually, I think that’s a great idea. I mean, gee, where will the locals go now to hang out and gossip?”
    A killer smile crossed Lucas’s face. “Really? You wouldn’t mind?”
    â€œOf course not. The island needs a place to gather. Besides, I’ve committed to being a partner with Aunt Maude in her new venture, so I’m sure that’ll keep me busy.”
    â€œWell, then—I think that settles it. But could I impose upon you to give me some guidance? Maybe in the design and ordering whatever equipment you think might be best? I promise not to bother you too much, but maybe when you’re free we could do some—what do they call it?— brainstorming together.”
    I couldn’t remember the last time a suggestion had appealed to me quite as much. “I think it’ll be fun, Lucas, and I’d love to.”
    Â 
    I returned home to find Aunt Maude sitting on her