“I wouldn’t go that far,” I say, waving her off.
“Would you sign a book for me?” a lady asks.
“Oh, yes. Me too.” A number of people seem keen, and the mood changes as they focus their attention on me.
My stomach tightens, but Felix steps in. “Not now. This is meant to be a fun night out for Kit, not work.”
“Exactly,” Logan agrees. “Now, who wants some more mulled wine? Plus, we got a new shipment ofHow to Sell A Haunted Housetoday for those of you who’ve been waiting.”
Logan winks as walks away. I’m surprised by how easily the conversation resumes and I’m no longer the center of attention.
Felix steps closer, wrapping his arm around my waist and I lean into him, appreciating the support. As we stand there, I notice an older woman with pinkish hair watching us from across the room. Her frown doesn’t escape my attention, but I push away any negative thoughts. Tonight is about having a good time, and I won’t let anyone’s judgment dampen my spirits.
“Let’s get some more wine,” Felix suggests, releasing me from his hold and grabbing my hand. “You deserve a toast to celebrate coming out.”
I huff a laugh. Sure, I’ve come out as an author to the good folk of Collier’s Creek, but it also feels as if I’ve taken a step forward with Felix by bringing our relationship into the open. Although I’m not exactly sure what the status of our relationship is.
We raise our filled mugs.
“Cheers.” Felix taps my mug. “You’ve come a long way since you first arrived here.”
He’s right. My life has changed so much since coming to Collier’s Creek. It may only be baby steps, but I can feel the loneliness that has weighed me down for so long is being replaced by a sense of belonging.
Chapter Fifteen
Felix
“Hey, Felix,” Will says, popping his head into the kitchen where I’m doing a load of dishes. “I was wondering if it’d be okay if I came in late tomorrow. I need to attend something at the school.”
“Of course. No problem,” I say, loading another plate into the dishwasher.
“Thanks, man.”
I grab a tea towel and dry my hands as I head toward him. “How’s Mav doing at school?”
“Good. Great actually.” He grins, like he always does when talking about his son.
“He’s a cool kid.”
Will nods. “The best. Do you see yourself having kids one day?”
The question takes me back.Kids?It’s not something I’ve thought much about, but yeah, I could see myself with an ankle-biter or two.Especially if Kit was in the picture, a little voice whispers in my head.
“One day. Not sure if I’m ready for the responsibility yet. Still got my wild oats to sow, you know?”
Will throws back his head in laughter. “Yeah, I get it. But when the time comes, just remember, it’s true what they say, it takes a village. I’m just so damn lucky to have Colton and some amazing friends for support.”
We head back to the front of the coffee shop, where I drop to my haunches behind the counter. It’s been a busy morning and I need to refill the paper roll in the register ready for the lunch rush. I grab the box of rolls when Will taps my head.
“Psst. Gorgeous broody man alert.”
My mood lifts instantaneously, and a smile lifts my lips. I rise to my feet as Kit approaches the counter.
“I’ve got to do… that thing. You know, out the back.” Will disappears into the kitchen leaving me with Kit.
“Morning, stranger,” I say. “Welcome to Coffee and Cuddles.”
“Cuddles, huh?” Kit’s got a smile a mile wide.
