“Do you have a favorite story from your book?” Chloe asked Liam.
He thought for a moment. “There are so many, but one that stands out is about a small town in Kansas where, during World War II, the entire community came together to build a library after theirs burned down. They used whatever materials theycould find, and volunteers worked day and night. It became a symbol of hope and resilience.”
Chloe’s eyes widened. “That’s amazing.”
“I thought so, too,” he said, his expression earnest. “It’s moments like those that I want to shine a light on.”
She glanced at him thoughtfully. “Have you ever considered why these stories mean so much to you?”
He paused before answering. “I suppose it’s because they remind me that no matter where you go, people have the capacity for kindness and courage. In a world that often feels disconnected, the stories I’ve been told take us back to what’s important.”
She smiled softly. “That’s part of what drew me to museum work—the opportunity to connect people with the past and, hopefully, inspire them in the present.”
They found a bench under a sprawling oak tree and sat down. Oscar sat on the grass close to them, talking nonstop to Trixie.
Chloe turned to Liam. “I’m curious—after all your travels, do you ever think about settling down in one place?”
He took a deep breath, considering her question. “To be honest, I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. Traveling has given me so much, but it can also be... lonely.”
She nodded, understanding more than he realized just how hard it was to leave your family and friends behind.
He met her gaze. “Sapphire Bay feels different. There’s a sense of community here that I haven’t felt anywhere else.”
Her heart skipped a beat. “It’s a special place.”
He smiled gently. “And I’ve met some special people.”
A warmth spread through her. “I’m glad you think so.”
They sat in companionable silence for a moment, the sounds of the park enveloping them.
Liam broke the silence. “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you and Oscar.”
“We’ve enjoyed your company, too.”
He took a deep breath. “I was wondering... after I’ve finished my book, do you want to go out with me? We could have dinner together or take Oscar somewhere he’s wanted to visit.”
“As long as it isn’t the animal shelter,” Chloe whispered, “I’d love to.”
Oscar came running over, Trixie trotting happily beside him. “Mom, I’m thirsty. Can we get some lemonade?”
Chloe stood up. “Of course we can.” It didn’t surprise her that he was thirsty. While she was sitting under the tree with Liam, he’d shared the water in his bottle with Trixie.
Liam rose as well. “There’s a cafe not far from here. We could buy some lemonade from there.”
“We went there the last time we came to the park,” Oscar said happily. “Mom bought us the biggest ice creams ever.”
“Ice cream sounds like a great idea, too.”
Trixie barked and Chloe laughed. “It sounds as though someone else likes ice cream.”
Liam grinned. “Let’s all get some.”
With Trixie wagging her tail eagerly, they headed toward the café. Chloe couldn’t remember when she’d last enjoyed herself so much—and that told her more about her life than she wanted to acknowledge.
CHAPTER 5
The following Saturday,Chloe stood in her kitchen, placing the last elf costumes she’d made into a box. Oscar sat at the table, munching on his cereal while flipping through a picture book about dinosaurs.
