I snort. “If the town’s still here.”
“It will be. With the right mayor and the right priorities, Frost Haven is going to thrive. People will be fighting to open shops here.”
One of the baristas comes out of the coffee shop and hands each of us a cup.
“How’d you know?” I ask.
She chuckles. “Nico had Sall text me to have your favorite ready. He said you wouldn’t stay away from the hall long. I’m off in thirty minutes, then I’ll be down to help.”
We walk a few more steps. “Everyone loves this town so much,” I murmur.
Nico stops and turns to face me. “Everyone lovesyou. The town is the better because of you, and they know it. Sall’s been telling me all day of the little things you’ve done here—the free dog wash for people who couldn’t manage it, the retirement home charity drive. Every summer you would organize games and crafts at the park for all the kids. The little things add up. People remember. They love and respect you.”
“My family?—”
“Stop,” he says softly. “The town knows it wasn’t your parents. Maybe your grandparents, but not them. What kept this place going—this warmth, this heart—that’s you.”
I fall in step with him. What he said is true. I know my grandparents loved and supported the town. Mom and Dad… not so much.
“Oh, look,” I say suddenly, pointing. “Someone is coming out of the empty restaurant. I think that’s the relator with them. Do you think…? Oh, a new business would be amazing.” I glance up at him. “If it’s really good one, do you think Sven would keep his promise about cross-promotion?”
“Yes, he’ll keep his promise.”
The couple and the realtor glance over at us. The woman smiles before turning back. Then they all go into the empty building next door.
Back at the hall, three people in suits are standing to the side observing the activity. One spots me, smiles, and walks our way. “Wynter, just who we were looking for.”
“Mr. McDermott, what can I do for you?”
“Say yes.”
“Yes to what?”
“Yes, to becoming our mayor.”
“What?”
“The mayor resigned and skipped town last night after learning he was being investigated for fraud. The council is perusing legal action, but we’d like you to serve as interim mayor. Would you consider it? You’ve already done more to bring business back here than he ever attempted.” He gestures at the room full of laughing volunteers, wrapped gifts and holiday joy. “You’ve brought heart back into the community.”
“I…” I look at Nico. He smiles and nods. I feel a presence behind me.
Dom puts his hand on my shoulder. “Say yes, Wynter. You’re what this town needs.”
“Yes,” I whisper. “Yes.”
“Nico, where did Dom disappear to? We have his truck.” I kick off my boots, hang my coat, and set my laptop on the counter.
“He got a rental since we need the truck. He’s staying at the lodge for now.”
“Why? He always crashes at home.”
“He wanted a bed.”
I pause and look to the bed Nico and I’ve been sharing.
“Oh. Good point. He knows about us?”
“I told him. Asked his permission. That okay?”
