went out. Your grandma always said things happen in threes, so hopefully we're done for now, but it's going to be a lot of big expenses all at once."
"Sorry, Mom. That's terrible."
"It is, but we'll manage. We'll just have to cut back on some things."
So much for asking my parents for money.
"Why don't I call you later? It sounds like you've got a lot going on, and you really shouldn't let Dad shop for a fridge on his own."
She laughs. "You're right. Okay, honey, we'll talk later. Oh, is this the weekend you're going to Vermont?"
"Yes, I'm almost there."
"I'm still shocked they're making you do this. Seems like a fine would've been sufficient."
"It's only for a few weekends. It'll be done soon. I'll let you go help Dad. Bye, Mom."
I end the call as I pull into The Maple Farm Inn. My lousy mood suddenly brightens seeing the historic building surrounded by towering maple trees in shades of red, orange, and yellow. It's October and southern Vermont is getting close to reaching peak color, which explains the full parking lot at the inn. I got the very last spot.
I grab my overnight bag and head to the inn, stopping when I see a silver Audi drive by. I immediately think of Aiden, wishing he were here with me but knowing he's probably out with Celine. She hasn't mentioned him all week. She's been too preoccupied with the client dinner. Aiden said he was breaking up with her but I guess he changed his mind. I wanted to believe him but part of me knew he wouldn't do it. He's dated her for over a year. He's not going to give up a longterm relationship for a girl he's known for a few weeks.
"Welcome back," Tom says, opening the door for me.
"Thanks." I go inside, noticing how much it reminds me of home. It's less about how it looks and more about how it feels. Warm and welcoming. A calm, quiet retreat from the loud crowded city I just left. "I missed this place."
"It has a way of doing that." Tom goes behind the counter to his reservation book. "We have people who come back every year."
I set my bag on the floor, noticing all the people milling about the lobby. "Looks the inn is sold out."
"We are, but don't worry. I didn't give your room away." He laughs as he goes to get my key. "Will you be having dinner with us tonight?"
"Probably not. It's late. I brought some snacks to eat in my room."
"Lois made her famous beef stew and cornbread. It's the special tonight. People come from all over just to have it." He winks at me. "I might've reserved you a table."
I smile. "Then I guess I have no choice. What time?"
"Eight forty-five. Our last seating of the night."
"That's in fifteen minutes. I better hurry." I pick up my bag. "Thanks, Tom."
I go upstairs to my room, the same one I was in before. It's small but adorable. The bed has a distressed, white iron headboard and on each side are small metal tables, each topped with a tiny lamp. There's a lavender quilt on the bed, along with a neatly folded blanket in case you need extra warmth in the night. A tall wooden dresser sits in the corner and next to it is a big square window covered by a simple white drape. There's no TV. No alarm clock. No special outlets to charge your phone. It's a simple room reminiscent of simpler times.
I take my makeup bag to the bathroom and set it on the shelf that's above the sink. I wash my face, then put on some blush and mascara, just enough makeup to look presentable at dinner. I don't need to get all made up to eat by myself. I wasn't even planning on eating dinner but Tom lured me in with today's special. I used to love my mom's beef stew and I'm sure the kind Lois makes is even better.
Going back in the room, I change into a sweater and a pair of black leggings. I wasn't sure what to pack. I brought my worst clothes for cleaning up trash, then threw in a couple nice sweaters to wear around the inn. I don't know why. It's not like anyone will see me. When I'm not on trash duty, I'll be spending all my time in my room, probably in my pajamas. I brought my laptop to do all the