Eli blinked. “There’s no paradise.”
Elsie smirked. “Lies. You and Noah were making heart-eyes all over the festival prep the other day.”
He choked. “We werenot.”
She snorted. “Sweetheart, I teach kindergarten. I know heart-eyes when I see them.” She cocked her head. “Is everything okay with you and Noah?”
It was useless to deny anything.
Eli ran gloved fingers through his hair. “I’m just… scared.”
Elsie’s expression grew warm. “Ah. The good kind of scared.”
“Is there a good kind?”
“Yes,” she said firmly. “The kind that shows up right before something real happens.”
Eli stared at the snow. “He’s a friend of yours, isn’t he?”
“One of my best friends, actually. And whatever you’re doing, keep doing it. Noah Carter hasn’t looked this happy since he wastwelve and someone let him be in charge of the glitter table at the winter pageant.”
Despite everything, Eli laughed.
“But listen to me for a second.” Elsie lowered her voice. “You’re both tender in places where life hit too hard. That’s okay. That’s how real relationships are built—slowly, and with care and honesty.”
Eli’s throat tightened. “I’m terrified of losing him.”
“Then tell him,” she said. “Before the fear makes decisions for you. Why don’t you go visit his workshop? Because that’s where he’ll probably be.” She smiled. “And I know he’ll be happy to see you.”
He wouldn’t be the only one.
Eli sighed. “Thanks, Elsie. Will I see you at the lantern walk?”
She grinned. “As if I’d miss it. I’ll look out for you and Noah.” She turned and headed back into the school.
Eli removed his glove and pulled his phone from his pocket. He slid his thumb over the screen.
You at the workshop?
A moment later, his phone pinged.
Noah: Yup. Come on over.
Eli pocketed his phone, his heartbeat racing, and started walking.
The workshop was filled with the faint scent of pine and paint and sawdust. Noah stood near the workbench, trying to appear calm and casual. That wasn’t easy. The sight of Eli set his heart beating fast.
“Have you gotten much done today?” Eli pointed to the photo props for the market.
“Not as much as I should’ve,” he said in a rueful tone. “I took a walk instead.”
“Me too. I ran into Elsie.”
Noah bit his lip. “Is this where I say I’m sorry?”
Eli laughed. “Hey, I survived, didn’t I? And she did give me some good advice.”
“Seems to be the day for people giving advice. I was on the receiving end too.” Noah leaned on the workbench. “Eli… we’re not moving too fast, are we?”
