And just like that, it clicks.
They’re together.
Really together.
At last.
I back up silently, heart thudding louder than I want to admit. I wasn’t meant to see that, and I won’t ruin it for them. I slip out the side door, pretending like I never even walked in.
“If you go to Denver, I’m coming with you.”
I remember all of Dee’s words.
“I’ll figure it out. Find a transfer or take some time off or whatever. But you are not doing this alone. Not when he bailed. Not when it’s twins.”
I press my hand to my lips.
“My nieces or nephews need me right now.”
But now?
Now, I see the way she looks at Nova, like the whole world stops and starts with her. I see the way Nova softens when Dee walks into a room. How they orbit each other, slow and steady, like they’re finally letting themselves believe in gravity.
And I know.
There’s no way Dee could leave now.
No way I’d let her.
Not when she’s finally found something for herself. Not after everything she’s given up to keep me standing.
She’s got her own love story unfolding right here in Silver Peak.
And whatever comes next for me… I’m going to have to face it on my own.
Not because I’m alone.
But because maybe... it’s time I learn how to stand on my own two feet.
The Timberline Inn is flooded with more tension than I ever thought possible.
Everyone’s already gathered around the big farmhouse table. Mom’s lit the candles like it’s a celebration, but the pie waiting on the counter feels more like a consolation prize. I asked for this dinner. Called everyone here. And now I have to say the words I’ve been choking on for days.
Maya’s nursing a glass of wine, her eyes already suspicious.
Dee’s got her arms folded, leaning back in her chair, watching me like she’s waiting for me to back out.
Gracie’s perched on the edge of her seat, nervous and smiling, like she thinks I’m about to announce some big promotion or surprise party.
And poor Internet clueless Mom has no idea what’s about to hit her. She’s all sparkle-eyed and curious, probably hoping I’m finally moving into some cutesy Silver Peak home.
I take a breath. Then another. My hands are damp where they grip the chair back.
“Okay,” I say, my voice louder than it feels in my chest. “I’ve got something to tell you. And it’s a lot. So let me get through it before anyone interrupts.”
Dee raises a brow but stays quiet. Maya nods once, jaw tense.
I glance around the table, then say it.
