“You won’t,” Owen said firmly. “Just be honest with her. Tell her the truth and let her decide how she feels. And if she doesn’t want anything to do with you, come and see me. I could do with a run around the lake. I might even let you pay for the pizza.”
Steve sighed. At least Owen hadn’t changed.
Chapter14
Eden looked around The Starlight Café, taking in the joyful chatter and laughter of the women who’d come to celebrate Shelley’s baby shower.
After the café had closed, Eden had helped transform the gorgeous space into the perfect venue for a baby shower. It was beautifully decorated with pastel balloons, streamers, and floral arrangements that made the place feel warm and inviting.
While Eden was hanging fairy lights from the window frames, Shelley had introduced her to Sam and Bailey, Shelley’s two sisters, and Elana, her mom. They’d welcomed her with open arms, making her feel like she was part of their family.
Eden glanced around the room. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together to celebrate such a special occasion.
Even though Shelley had been feeling even more tired than usual, she looked radiant. Her face was glowing with happiness as she sat on a comfortable chair, surrounded by the people she loved.
Penny, a friend of Shelley’s and a local property developer, approached Eden with a friendly smile. “Hi, Eden. I was speaking to Steve yesterday, and he said you’re looking for somewhere to live. Is that right?”
Eden nodded. “I’m staying with Pastor John and Shelley for now, but I’d like to find a place of my own. Especially with their baby’s due date getting closer.”
“Well, I’ve got some good news,” Penny said. “I saw your application for renting one of the cottages on Anchor Lane. We’d told another couple they could move into the third home, but they’ve had to leave Sapphire Bay unexpectedly. If you’re still interested, it’s available right now. I’m happy to show you through the cottage if it’s something you’d like to consider.”
Eden’s eyes widened. “I’d love to see it. You don’t know how much I appreciate you thinking of me.”
Penny smiled warmly. “It’s no problem at all. How about we set up a time for you to see the cottage tomorrow afternoon?”
“That sounds great,” Eden agreed. “I can’t wait.”
As the baby shower continued, Eden enjoyed talking to Shelley’s sisters. The celebration was even more enjoyable knowing that tomorrow she’d be looking at somewhere she could potentially live.
When Shelley began unwrapping the gifts, everyone found a seat. Her friend, Shona, gave her a beautiful handmade quilt, each square meticulously crafted with love. Paris presented her with a stunning dried flower arrangement, the delicate petals preserved in a way that captured their natural beauty.
Mabel, the owner of the general store, gave Shelley a set of soft, cozy baby blankets. And Diana gave her a collection of classic children’s books, each one inscribed with a personal message.
As Shelley carefully opened the other presents, Eden was amazed at the thought that had gone into each gift. Many were handmade by Shelley’s friends. All of them would be adorable additions to the room Shelley and John had decorated for their baby.
After all the gifts had been opened, Shelley stood up, her hands gently resting on her tummy. She smiled warmly at everyone gathered around her. “Can I have your attention for a moment?” she called out. Everyone stopped talking and all eyes turned to her. “I just want to say how thankful I am to each and every one of you for being here tonight. Your support and love mean more to John and me than words can express.”
She paused, her eyes misting over with tears. “I’m so grateful to have amazing family and friends who’ve been with us through every step of this journey. Your kindness, your generosity, and your love has made this day so special.”
Shelley looked over at Eden, Daniella, and Andrea. “And a special thank you to my friends who set up this beautiful shower. Everything’s perfect, from the decorations to the food.”
Eden felt a lump in her throat, touched by Shelley’s heartfelt words. She shared a glance with Daniella and Andrea, who were both smiling warmly.
Shelley continued, her voice filled with emotion, “This baby is so lucky to be coming into a world where it’s already so loved. John and I feel incredibly blessed to have you all in our lives. Thank you for celebrating with us today and for all the wonderful gifts.”
The room erupted into applause, and Shelley wiped away a tear. She stepped forward, hugging each of her friends, her gratitude evident in every embrace.
Eden felt a deep sense of contentment and belonging as the celebration continued. This was more than a baby shower; it was a gathering of friends who had become like family.
As they enjoyed the rest of the evening, Eden knew she’d found a community where she truly belonged.
The next day,Steve called into Pastor John’s house after he’d finished working on a sculpture. Rex sat happily beside him as he knocked on John’s front door. With Shelley’s baby shower last night, and all the work he was trying to catch up on, this was the first opportunity he’d had to talk to Eden. Hopefully, she was home.
When she opened the front door, he breathed a sigh of relief. “Hi. I thought you might like to come for a walk with Rex and me.”
A mischievous grin lit her face. “I’d love to, but I have something I have to do first. I was just leaving to meet Penny at the cottages on Anchor Lane.”
Steve’s eyes widened. “Are you able to rent one of them?”
