But it did matter. She really thought she had this one. The exposure would have helped. But she wasn’t going to turn knowledge into gossip or disappointment into a complaint.
“Well, I have good news for you,” said Tessa.
Mia blinked. Hope flared.
“Elena Morales, the director of Willow Haven Shelter, has specifically asked you to cater the next fundraiser again.”
Mia blinked. “You’re kidding.”
“Nope.” Tessa grinned. “She loved your food and professionalism. Can you do it?”
“Yes,” Mia said without hesitation. Her chest loosened for the first time all day. “Absolutely.”
They talked dates, rough numbers, and menu ideas. By the time their food arrived, her disappointment had softened, replaced by a quiet reminder that she was still moving forward.
Maybe closing one door didn’t mean she was failing.
Maybe it just meant another one was opening.
Her phone rangmidafternoon while she was restocking the fridge.
Garden Club.
They wanted to reserve the event barn for their winter tea fundraiser. About seventy-five guests. Light lunch, elegant desserts, simple service.
Mia leaned against the counter after hanging up, relief loosening her shoulders.
Finally, a win.
A little later, tires crunched on the drive. She heard a familiar woof and looked out the window.
Caleb.
He climbed out, sunglasses pushed up into his hair, sleeves rolled up to his forearms, looking every bit the steady, capable man she’d come to rely on. Ranger bounded after him, tail wagging like he’d been invited to a party.
She opened the barn door, and Ranger barreled toward her, sniffing her hands like she had a hidden snack.
“Hey, buddy.” She laughed, rubbing his ears, and then looked up at Caleb.
“I’m jealous,” he teased. “He greets you like that, and I get one kiss.”
She smiled up at him. “You’ll survive.”
“Barely.”
“Thought I’d stop by,” he said. “Wondered how your event in the new barn went.”
“Come on in, and I’ll tell you about it.”
He kissed her as he stepped inside—quick and warm and familiar. Ranger flopped down near the door with a dramatic sigh.
“Coffee?”
“I’d love some,” he said. “And a snack if you’ve got it. Missed lunch.”
Mia busied herself with the coffee, grateful for something to do with her hands, and pulled out the leftover turkey and brie croissants from earlier. She set a couple in front of him along with his mug.
“Can Ranger have something too?” she asked.
