I laugh softly. “Then we should probably go. It’s already after eleven.”
He smiles, lifts my hand, and presses a kiss to my knuckles before leading me back to the table.
Goodbyes blur together—handshakes, smiles, promises. Natalia and I exchange numbers and promise to meet again at the wreath-making event, and then we’re finally walking out into the cool night air.
Finn opens the truck door for me. I climb in and buckle up while he walks around the front.
I unlock my phone to check notifications, and the group chat with my sisters is chaos, as expected. Right before Finn arrived, I sent them one of the pictures Aiden took of Neptune and me, standing by my new hydrangeas.
April:
Damn girl, you clean up GOOD
June:
wow that dress is absolutely stunning! And look at little Neptune!
April:
OMG and the flowers!
June:
Do you think he wore his uniform??
April:
Officer and a Gentleman vibes for sure
June:
Wasn’t Richard Gere in the Navy?
April:
Close enough
I laugh quietly and type back.
Me:
Uniform is navy with a white cap. And no, he did not carry me. But we did dance.
The next message is from Cassie.
Cassie:
I crossed paths with O’Donoghue leaving your neighborhood. He looked HOT. Update me later!!
I glance sideways at Finn as he drives—focused, relaxed—and smile to myself.
Last unread message.
Aiden:
Neptune had dinner right after our hike. I’m heading out for blueberry picking at 8 tomorrow. If you’re still up for it, I’d love for you to join me.
Warmth spreads through my chest.
