Chapter 2Flashback to July 6
With great concentration, Dan separated the cold brew filter from the carafe. He smiled in satisfaction as he set the filter in the sink. Six perfect carafes of cold brew were ready for the day. Even this early in July, the temperature was already on the rise.
Reyes Books wasn’t anything fancy. Founded by Dan’s great-uncle after his discharge from the air force, it stocked new and used books at reasonable prices. Most of their revenue came from special orders rather than foot traffic.
But they were also known for their superb caffeine concoctions. Tio Aaron had mastered the art of the coffee bean during his long and eccentric life. Being a bachelor, he’d taken Dan, the sole cousin interested in the shop, under his wing.
The front door jingled as it was push
