“So, what’s going on with you and Steve?” Katelyn asked, tilting her head slightly. “Mom said it’s pretty serious.”
Eden felt a warmth spread through her chest. “Steve is amazing, Katelyn. I really think he’s the one.”
Her sister’s eyebrows rose. “Are you sure about that? You haven’t known him for long.”
Eden nodded, her smile widening. “I know, but he’s supportive, kind, and he just gets me. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before.”
Katelyn studied Eden’s face, searching for any doubt. “That’s wonderful. But are you really sure? I just don’t want to see you get hurt again.”
Eden took a deep breath, appreciating her sister’s concern. “I’m sure. I know it’s a big step, but I feel ready for it. Steve has been so understanding, especially with everything that’s happened.”
Katelyn’s expression softened. “Speaking of that, how’s your PTSD? Has living in Sapphire Bay helped you?”
Eden looked down, her fingers tracing the edge of her coffee mug. “It’s been a process, but Sapphire Bay has been good for me. The peaceful environment, the supportive community—it’s all helped a lot. I haven’t had any panic attacks since I’ve been there and I’m sleeping so much better.”
Katelyn squeezed Eden’s hand gently. “I’m glad to hear that. You deserve some peace and happiness.”
Eden felt a lump in her throat, grateful for Katelyn’s unwavering support. “Thanks, Kate. It means a lot to hear you say that.”
Katelyn smiled, her eyes filled with warmth. “Anytime, sis. Just remember, whatever happens with Steve, and no matter where life takes you, you’ve got your family behind you.”
Tears pricked at the corners of Eden’s eyes. “I know. And that makes all the difference.”
A loud shout came from inside the house and Katelyn turned to Eden. “That sounds like Gabby. I’d better see what’s happening.”
Eden picked up their coffee mugs. “I’ll come with you. And Kate…” Her sister turned around. “Call me if you need someone to talk to. Life’s too short to be unhappy.”
Katelyn sent Eden a sad smile. “I will. Don’t tell Mom and Dad how I’m feeling. I need to think about what I’m doing next before I talk to them.”
“I won’t say anything,” Eden promised. She just hoped Katelyn would be okay. Feeling lost and overwhelmed was something Eden understood, and they weren’t nice feelings.
Chapter26
Steve gripped the steering wheel of his truck, glancing occasionally at Eden as she told him about her trip to Boston. He nodded and smiled at the right moments, but his mind was somewhere else. Since he’d picked her up from the airport, he’d become more and more nervous.
“We spent all our time together, just talking about what was happening in our lives,” Eden said, her eyes sparkling with the joy of reconnecting with her family. “It was really nice.”
“That’s great,” Steve replied, trying to sound as though he’d listened to every word she had said. He shifted his focus back to the road, his thoughts racing.
Eden studied him for a moment. “Are you okay, Steve? You seem a bit distracted.”
He forced a smile, his heart pounding a little faster. “Everything’s fine. I’ve just got a lot on my mind.”
Eden frowned. “Are you sure you’re okay? You seem... nervous.”
Steve took a deep breath, knowing he couldn’t hide his feelings from her. “All right, I am a bit nervous. I have a surprise for you.”
“What kind of surprise?”
Steve checked the rearview mirror. “You’ll see it soon. I just hope you like it.”
They drove in silence for a few more minutes, the familiar sights of Sapphire Bay passing by. As they pulled into the driveway of Eden’s house, Steve’s anxiety peaked. He turned off the engine and looked at her. She was searching his face with a mixture of anticipation and concern.
“Okay, here goes nothing,” Steve said, taking her hand. “I did something while you were in Boston. Owen and our friends from the tiny homes project helped me.”
Eden’s eyes widened with surprise. “What did you do?”
Steve smiled nervously. “Come on, I’ll show you.” He led her to the front door, unlocked it, and walked inside.
