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I get the sense that this is funny to him, like an inside joke that I’m not a part of. I thought he’d be sad about his friend’s death celebration. And from the way both have talked about each other, I’m certain they are friends. Which is not surprising in the least.

Tom is the type of person you can’t help but like. There is not a mean bone in his body; he exudes only kindness and warmth. From the moment I met him, I felt at ease and taken care of, and he’s become sort of a father figure to me. He is honestly perfect for this job, although it doesn’t seem like he had much of a choice in that regard. The funeral home has been owned and run by his family for over three generations.

“You really think we should do it? And not, I don’t know, an event planner?”

Tom scratches his grey beard, which looks freshly trimmed for once. “Yes, you will be in charge. She asked for you, after all.” He pats my head affectionately, looking proud.

That’s another thing I love about Tom. He’s proud of everything I do, no matter how big or small. In his eyes, I can do no wrong.

The front door opens, and he eagerly strides over. He reminds me of a puppy who has been desperately waiting for his owner to come home.

I smirk.

Maybe he feels more than just friendship for Mrs. Williams?

The older lady is only halfway through the door when Tom says, “Welcome in. You’re looking lovely as always.”

She looks offended. “Lovely? Well, let me turn around and change. I was aiming to look drop-dead gorgeous today.”

Tom hollers and holds out his arm for her.

I get up to join them but pause when I notice another person stepping in right behind Mrs. Williams.

Hayden.

My mouth falls open.

What the hell is he doing here? Is he here to see me? But then I remember this is where I first met him. So maybe he’s here to visit a loved one? Again?

He stops in his tracks when he sees me. “Robin?” He looks confused.

Before I can answer, Mrs. Williams’s head whips around. “You two know each other?” She seems pleased.

When Hayden doesn’t answer, I do. “Sort of. Do you know each other?” I point between the two of them.

Mrs. Williams sighs dramatically. “Not really, dear. I’d say he’s a complete stranger. I never see his handsome face anymore. A shame really.”

Now it’s Hayden’s turn to sigh. “Darlene is my great-aunt.”

I stare. Don’t tell me this is the nephew I’m supposed to be working with.

Mrs. Williams looks delighted. “Well, how wonderful. We won’t need introductions then. Tom, lead us to the meeting room. If I wait any longer, I might die on the spot.”

“You’d be in the perfect place for that.” Tom leads her down the hallway.

Hayden and I share an amused look, and we wait for them to disappear. There’s an awkward silence between us.

“You work here.”

“You’re the nephew.”

“Great-nephew. But Darlene thinks that makes her sound old.”

I giggle but quickly reprimand myself. I hate that I feel this undeniable chemistry between us. After everything I learned about him, I want to dislike him.

There’s another beat of silence until he lifts his hand toward the corridor, indicating for me to go first. I turn to follow the others, extremely aware of his presence right behind me.

“How many guests?”