As if on cue, an elderly woman with white hair and bright-blue eyes notices me and waves, her smile radiating warmth even from a distance.
“Well, hello there, young man!” she calls out. “You look a bit lost. New in town?”
I roll down the window, grateful for the friendly face. “That obvious, huh? I’m Caspian. Just moved here from Phoenix.”
“Oh my, that’s quite a change! I’m Rae. Welcome to Maplewood, dear. You’re in for a treat—we’re gearing up for our Winter Wishes Festival.”
My eyebrows shoot up. “Winter Wishes Festival? That sounds…magical.”
Rae beams. “Oh, it is! There’s ice sculpting, snowman-building contests, and the most delightful Vermont food you’ve ever tasted. But if you ask me, the highlight is the Rocktogenarians gig.”
“The Rock…what?”
She leans over and pats my arm. “We’re the best rock band in the state, and that’s all you need to know.”
I laugh because I can’t get a word in as Rae chatters on about the festival.
A mix of excitement and nervousness bubbles inside me. This small town is so different from the bustling city life I’m used to. But even though I’ve only just arrived, there’s something about its charm, the genuine warmth of its people, that makes me feel…hopeful.
“You know what, Rae? I can’t wait to experience it all. Make sure to save me a spot on the front row of your gig. I’ll be cheering you on.”
With wishes for a Happy New Year, Rae goes on about her day, and I pull back onto the road toward my new home, wondering if Mom was wrong. Maybe there is something to come back here for, even if it’s just the people.
As I pull up to my new duplex, a woman with a bright-red scarf waves enthusiastically from the sidewalk. That must be Grace, my Realtor.
I hop out of the car, my breath visible in the chilly air.
“Caspian!” she calls out, striding over with a folder tucked under her arm. “Welcome to your new home!”
I grin, extending my hand. “Grace, it’s great to finally meet you in person!”
She shakes my hand firmly. “The pleasure’s all mine. I hope the drive from Phoenix wasn’t too treacherous?”
“Only almost died twice,” I say, winking. “But the scenery made up for it.”
Grace laughs, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Well, I’m glad you made it in one piece. Here are your keys,” she says, fishing them out of her pocket. “To both the duplex and the coffee shop.”
I take them, feeling a rush of excitement. “I can’t thank you enough for all your help, Grace. Finding a place to live and a spot for my business? You’re a miracle worker.”
“Oh, hush,” she says, waving her hand dismissively. “It was my pleasure. Maplewood can always use more young energy like yours. Now, let’s get you settled in.”
I pop the trunk of my car, revealing a jumble of suitcases and shopping bags. “I may have gone a little overboard when I stopped in Buffalo. They had the cutest farmer and crafts market,” I admit sheepishly.
Grace chuckles. “I think you’ll fit right into Maplewood, honey.”
As I start unloading, a gust of wind whips through, making me shiver. “Jeez, it’s like the Arctic out here,” I mutter, my teeth chattering.
“You’ll get used to it,” Grace assures me, grabbing a bag to help. “Though you might want to invest in a proper winter coat.”
I laugh, looking down at my light jacket. “What, this isn’t enough?”
We make quick work of unloading, our breath puffing out in little clouds as we carry everything to the front door. Despite the cold, a warmth spreads through me. This is really happening. I’m starting my new life right here in this charming little town.
“Well, Caspian,” Grace says as we set down the last of my belongings. “Welcome home. I have a feeling you’re going to love it here.”
I take a deep breath, looking at my new front door. “You know what, Grace? I think you might be right.”
I turn the key in the lock, the click echoing in the crisp air, and push open the door. A warm air greets me, along with the faint aroma of pine-scented cleaner. I step inside, my eyes widening as I take in my new home.
