"It's the first time we're going to a town event as a real couple," Riley said. "Not fake. Not pretending. Just...us."
Grant took her hands. "Scared?"
"A little." Riley laughed. "Isn't that ridiculous? We've been doing this for weeks."
"But this time it's real." Grant's smile was understanding. "I get it. I'm nervous too."
"You are?"
"Yeah." Grant pressed a kiss to her forehead. "But we'll do it together. Like everything else."
"Together," Riley agreed.
The community center was packed when they arrived. String lights were draped along the walls, music played from speakers set up near the small stage, and what looked like half of Pine Valley had turned out for the celebration.
Riley spotted her family immediately—her mom waving enthusiastically, her dad grinning, Tyler and Lily already making their way over.
"There they are!" Carol pulled Riley into a hug. "How are you, sweetheart?"
"Good, Mom. Really good."
"I heard." Carol's eyes twinkled. "I'm so happy for you both."
David clapped Grant on the shoulder. "Good to see you two worked things out."
"We did," Grant said, his arm sliding around Riley's waist.
Tyler smirked. "Does this mean we have to stop teasing you about taking ten years to get back together?"
"Please stop," Riley groaned.
"Never," Lily said cheerfully. "This is too good. You two are like a Hallmark movie come to life."
Riley was about to respond when Hannah appeared, practically bouncing with excitement.
"You're here! And you're together! And you look happy!" Hannah pulled Riley into a crushing hug. "I told you the bonfire crash would work."
"It worked," Riley confirmed, laughing. "Thank you. For everything."
"That's what friends are for." Hannah linked arms with Riley. "Now come on. Emily and Jenna are saving us a spot near the refreshment table, and I need all the details about last night."
"Hannah—"
"All. The. Details."
Grant caught Riley's eye and grinned. "I'll get us drinks. You go debrief."
Riley let herself be pulled into the circle of her friends, and for the next twenty minutes, she fielded questions and shared carefully edited details while her friends alternated between teasing her and expressing genuine happiness.
"I'm really glad you're staying," Emily said, squeezing Riley's hand. "It wasn't the same without you here."
"I'm glad I'm staying too," Riley said, surprised by how much she meant it.
She was mid-conversation with Jenna when someone tapped her shoulder.
Riley turned to find Mrs. Patterson, who owned the bakery on Main Street, smiling at her.
"Riley! Your mother told me you're starting a marketing business."
