Through tears, Peekie fumbled with cups and spoons and pulled shots for Sara’s latte. “I knew it. I had a bad feeling earlier when you stopped at the rubbish bin.” “Oh.” Sara felt a flush of embarrassment spread over her face. “Yes, I saw you toss away Spot’s swill. Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me.” “It was the worst coffee I ever tasted. Ever. No exaggeration.” Peekie dumped two shots of espresso into a cup and started two more. The hiss of steam and the bumps and grinds of the machine were comforting and anchored Sara to reality. “It was like looking into the past, watching you on Bird Way,” Peekie said. “The morning sunlight made a halo around your hair. You move like she does, and I thought: there goes Amelia, walking away. And I knew right then I wouldn’t see her again.” She wiped her tears and focused on the espresso machine.
