I hear a phone ringing in the background. Saved by the bell, he says. “Catch ya later.”
I click the end button, realizing we never even spoke about the sale of Oopsie Daisies.
Chapter Twenty-Three
Ruby
Desireeand I step off the concession line at the Silver Pine Community Theater. The walls of the historical building on Lincoln Street are lined with posters from past and upcoming shows. The theater is known for top-notch actors during peak seasons. The lobby smells of popcorn and polished wood.
“Are you sure?” Desiree asks, munching on chili-lime chips, unwilling to wait until we’re seated.
“I know it’s been a while but yeah, I’m sure. Griffin was about to kiss me.”
She chews with gusto, the crunch adding drama. “Run me through this one more time.”
Desiree is treating the episode with Griffin like it’s her favorite soap opera. I love her for it.
I recap each second of the near-kiss.Griffin stepping closer, moving away my lock of hair, wiping away my tears. Leaning in.
It’s like I’m back in high school with my BFF, analyzing every move my crush made. “Maybe he was going in for a consoling hug or peck from a friend.”
I shake my head. “You could feel the electricity in the room. My hair was nearly standing on end.”
Desiree says with a mouth full of chips. “Wow, just wow.” After she swallows, she adds, “You know I’ve always wanted to be an actress.”
I nod, “Sure, drama class every Tuesday and Thursday night, right?”
“Yep. What do you say I play you in the theater production?”
I roll my eyes and laugh. “As long as I can get comped front-row seats and snacks.”
“Deal.”
We check our tickets as the usher calls the next group waiting to be admitted. The lights dim slightly in the lobby, the hum of the crowd softening.
We settle into our seats as the curtain rises, the chatter fading as the first scene begins.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Griffin
I’m standingin the inn’s dining room which Nick skillfully converted into an impressive event space for the cotillion. The new hardwood floors gleam, fresh paint covers the walls, and every structural detail Nick insisted on is done. There’s a huge connecting tent where he’ll pump in heat for the overflow he’s expecting. Hands on my hips, I take it all in.
Nick walks up to me, giving the final nod. “Feels good, seeing this space transform from a dusty, half-finished mess into something that actually belongs to Silver Pine history.”
I pat him on the shoulder. “Kudos. You performed a miracle here.”
“Thanks, wasn’t always sure I’d make it through.”
We lean against the counter, watching as the last ofNick’s friends pack up their gear. He’s a popular guy. Once they’re gone, Nick stretches and shakes his head. “I don’t know what I’d do without all of you helping me in the eleventh hour.”
I shrug, a little self-conscious. “No big deal,” I mutter. Over the last few weeks, I’ve downed more Ibuprofen than I have in a year. Still, I’m grateful to not have pulled a muscle.
Nick laughs, clapping me on the shoulder. “Come on, Griffin. Take the gratitude. Oh, I have something for you.” He pulls a card from his pocket, handing it to me. It’s an invitation. “Just got back from the printer. You’re the first to receive it,” he says. “Tessa and I want you at our summer wedding.”
I study the elegant card, a small smile tugging at my mouth. It’s strange, feeling genuinely included in someone else’s celebration.
I glance around the room, thinking about this town, how much can be accomplished when people come together, supporting each other. This space would never have been ready in time for the cotillion without the team effort. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I realize maybe trusting people isn’t always a bad thing.
