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I held up a finger, chuckling at the memory. “Only until Clara threatened me if I kept changing her work.”

“Someone had to rein you in,” Elena said, her laughter warm.

“Don’t let them get to you,” Sato said. “Someone has to keep the rest of us organized.”

“He’s been amazing helping me get settled.” Ethan pivoted the conversation as we all moved to the kitchen. “How about a quick tour?”

“Yes, please,” Grace said. “I’ve been excited to see how it’s coming together.”

“I’d love to see,” Dad added.

Ethan guided our parents toward the living room while I placed dishes on the island, my fingers already itching to adjust the arrangement.

Another ring from the door stopped me, and I hurried to answer so Ethan could continue with our parents.

Wade and Olivia stood on the doorstep with two boxes from Special Blend.

“Jenny asked us to bring these since she’s picking up an extra shift. She said these were mandatory.” Wade handed the boxes over.

I couldn’t imagine what Jenny had sent since we already had a selection of Special Blend savory goodies.

Olivia nudged him with her elbow. “Don’t tease. Those pastries are practically responsible for this happening tonight.”

The entire town apparently knew about the scones and tarts, though we hadn’t picked any up since Mickey had brought pies for later. They were appropriate, though.

“Among other things,” I murmured, catching Ethan’s eye across the room where he was about to lead our parents out to the deck. His soft smile sent warmth cascading through me.

Clara arrived next, bringing a bottle of wine.

“The board is thrilled that you’re taking the interim director position,” I told her as I opened the bottle to let it breathe.

“Thank you for having the faith in me to fill in.”

“You’ll do a great job. Next week we’ll get started on the transition plan. Tonight, though, no more work talk.”

Clara’s smile mirrored my own. “Understood.” She gave me a quick hug. “It’s great to see you so happy.”

The arrival of Dixon, Kyle, and Liam fresh from hockey camp brought new energy through the house. They practically buzzed from an afternoon on the ice.

Dixon pulled me into a bear hug before he’d even fully crossed the threshold. “Congratulations on Seattle! Oscar wants to visit when I’m out there for a game. Says we need to double date properly.”

“Fair warning,” Kyle said, “Oscar’s idea of a proper double date usually involves dancing. Austin and I were not ready for that, so be prepared.”

“Thanks for the heads-up,” I said with a laugh, remembering how naturally Ethan had twirled me in the kitchen a few days ago. I’d be game for whatever Oscar had in mind.

Conversation and laughter filled the house, mixing with the music to create the welcoming atmosphere we’d hoped for. Our friends moved easily between the kitchen and deck, celebrating all the good things that had happened over the past couple of weeks.

Ethan caught my eye again, this time with a questioning look that asked if I was okay. I smiled and gave him a subtle nod. I was more than okay. Even though we weren’t officially living together yet, this place already felt like home.

I drifted over to Olivia and Wade to see how they were doing.

“I wanted to ask you, those drawings on the dining room table—is that your camp idea?” Olivia asked.

“It is.” My voice caught slightly as emotion swelled in my throat. “We’re looking at giving it a go.”

“I’ve got to see that.” Wade stood. “I missed it earlier.”

“Come on, I’ll show you.”