by Leah Atwood
“I see.” She looked him up and down, not seeing a single dry spot.
“I’d suggest we wait a few minutes before leaving. Just from my house to yours it came down this hard, and visibility is near zero. Of course, I left my umbrella in the other vehicle.”
“There might be some of Uncle Hank’s clothes hiding upstairs.” She looked at his wet clothes again. “I can grab an outfit for you and you can toss yours in the dryer for a few minutes.”
He shivered. “I’ll take you up on that.”
Back upstairs she went, into Aunt Sally’s sewing room. The closet held the remainder of Uncle Hanks’s clothes, those Aunt Sally couldn’t bring herself to part with yet. Amie didn’t figure Aunt Sally would mind using them for a good cause. Her great uncle had been a robust man, his clothes would swim on Drew, but they’d make do. She grabbed a shirt and jeans then ran downstairs.
“Here you go.” She handed over the spare clothing and pointed to a small room off the kitchen. “The dryer is in there. It’s a whole laundry room with space to change.”
“Thanks. I’ll be right back.”
A loud laugh bubbled from her when Drew emerged. She covered her mouth, but the action did little to hide her amusement.
“Gee, thanks.” Drew cast a mock scowl her way.
“Sorry, but you look like a mix between a clown and scarecrow.”
He held out the waistband of the pants that could have fit at least two of him. “All I need are suspenders.”
She giggled. “There was a pair up there. Want me to grab them?”
His hands flew up to protest then quickly returned to grab the pants before they fell. “Thanks, but I’ll be fine until my clothes dry.”
“I hope this isn’t indicative of how our date will go.” She’d meant it as a joke, but Drew’s face shadowed.
“Don’t think like that. We’ll have a great time.” He sat on a stool at the kitchen island. “A little rain won’t change anything.”
“When do your parents come in?”
“At the end of next month, but they can’t decide on an arrival date.” He eyed her with curiosity. “Why the sudden change of subject?”
“It wasn’t intentional.” Meanwhile, her gut twisted.
“I’ve known you too long, Amie, and something is going on in the mind of yours.”
“Do you think it’s wise to go on a date?” There, she’d said it—the fear she’d fought against.
He pinched the bridge of his nose. “Probably not, but we can’t ignore what’s between us, at least I can’t.”
“Me neither, but our lives are in separate places. This,” she swung a finger in a rotation motion, “is an interlude to our real lives.”
“It doesn’t have to be.”
“How could it work? I have to return to Charlotte eventually, and you don’t even know what you’re doing a month from now.” She had to protect her heart. She’d thought she could blissfully go along with their budding romance because she wanted to, but not at the risk of another broken heart. “You’ll probably end up moving back to Manhattan.”
“That’s not happening.” His head shook emphatically. “My former boss called this morning, begging me to return, and I told him no. I haven’t said anything to anyone, but I’ve thought about opening my own law firm here in Jasper Lake.”
“I still have my career in North Carolina.”
The buzzing of the dryer interrupted their conversation. Drew silently went to the laundry room, returned several minutes later dressed in his own clothes. His lips pinched in a solemn line, his eyes hard to read.
Even with the serious expression, he was handsome and self-assured. Will I ever be able to shake my attraction for him? She wanted to believe a relationship could work between them, but it didn’t seem logistically possible. But oh, how she wanted to believe.
Taking long and slow steps, Drew walked toward her. “I’ve thought about what you said.”
The intensity of his gaze sent a tremble surging through her.
His hands found her shoulders. Lightning flashed outside, and thunder rattled the windows. The outside storm magnified the one brewing between her and Drew. He stepped closer, closing the gap between them.
She swallowed, thrilling at his gentle touch, terrified of the depths of emotion it wrought.
“Ten years ago, we were at the same impasse, and we walked away. For better or worse, I believe we made the right decision—then. This time, it’s different. We’re older, wiser, and more capable of making the sacrifices and compromises a relationship requires.”
“But…” She trailed off when Drew put a finger to her lips.
“I also know that your heart is fragile and afraid to trust after what Tim did to you. Love, like, comfort, or whatever—being jilted will play mind games with you. You’re scared, and I understand that.”
“Yes,” she whispered. “What if things don’t work out between us?”
“I can’t guarantee it will, but I do know if we don’t give it a chance, then I’ll regret the missed opportunity every single day of my life.” His hand slid to her cheek, caressing it.
“I want to try.” If ever there was a man she could trust, it was Drew. Reliable, honest, good-looking, intelligent Drew.
“We can take it slow, start with this date.” The hope reflected in him deepened the vivid blue of his eyes.
“I trust you, Drew.” It seemed like a given, but she had to tell him, let him know. There was a world of difference between him and Tim, and even this Drew versus the Drew of nine years ago.
An undistinguishable emotion flickered in his eye. “Thank you for that.”
His arm slid down, capturing her by the waist and pulled her closer. Years had passed since their last embrace, and the time melted away. He was stronger now, more confident as he held her close.
She leaned into him, soaking the wonder of being in his arms again. A brief thought passed that she’d never felt this secure with Tim, and she felt no guilt or betrayal on account of her ex-fiancé. Tim was a part of her past. Drew was her past, present, and hopefully future.
They gazed into each other eyes, seeing the possibilities. He ran a hand through her hair, allowing his fingers to linger as they threaded the strands. Her hand slid up his arm, rested on his shoulder, silently giving him permission for more. This is where she belonged. As his mouth lowered to hers, a peace filled her.
She couldn’t read the future, but she knew they’d find a way to make theirs work.
Chapter Ten
Every year, Jasper Lake held an old-fashioned Independence Day celebration. Starting with a parade down Main Street, activities continued throughout the day until fireworks over the lake at night.
Drew looked forward to the day with the anticipation of a kid to Christmas. The celebration embodied everything he loved about the community—friends, family, small town connections, and old fashioned charm.
This year’s celebration would be more special because it was his first public outing with Amie as an official couple. A smile materialized when he remembered their date a week ago. Amie’s doubts had worried him at first until he saw beyond the surface and realized her fears. Once addressed, she’d given in easily, agreeing to give their relationship a chance.
He only prayed he wouldn’t let her down. He had to tell her the truth and soon, though the time and place hadn’t yet been right. Amie had always been reasonable, and he had faith she’d understand. Pushing away the nagging conviction to come clean, he instead conjured memories of their kiss.
Never had a kiss held such perfection. Her kisses were sweeter than he remembered, and he could lose himself in them. He had in fact. Their first led to a second kiss, deeper and longer. Neither he nor Amie had heard the door open or noticed Aunt Sally’s interruption until her cough interrupted them.
His face had turned beet red, and it was the first time he ever remembered blushing. Amie’s cheeks could have camouflaged with a fire engine. They’d looked at each oth
er, laughing through their embarrassment.
Aunt Sally, bless her heart, had given them each a hug and muttered, “It’s about time.”
As humiliating as the incident had been, there was comfort found to know Aunt Sally approved of the relationship. He’d been prepared to present arguments negating their past break-up and to defend why it wasn’t too soon after Amie’s failed engagement. Fortunately, he hadn’t had to lawyer his way into Aunt Sally’s good graces.
Come to find out, Amie’s great aunt had a fondness for him. The feeling was mutual—he’d always thought of her as another grandmother. When she’d asked him for a ride to the celebration, he’d immediately accepted. He’d pick her and Amie up, and then spend the day in town.
His coupe would be more comfortable for Aunt Sally, but it was only a two-seater. Amie would have no place to sit. He grabbed the keys to the truck, grateful Amie wouldn’t mind sitting in the rear seat, even if it meant being cramped. The drive was short enough she shouldn’t be too uncomfortable.
When he first entered the truck, he cleaned out several pieces of trash from the floorboard. He’d gotten lax in his cleaning regimens and made a note to detail the truck in the upcoming week. Good enough for now. He drove to Amie’s and saw her waiting outside, shifting her weight and appearing anxious.
He didn’t waste time hopping out. “What’s wrong?”
She came to him and fell into an embrace. “I’m worried about Aunt Sally. She’s not acting herself.”
“How so?” Concern welled in his soul.
“She’s exhausted and moving slow. Plus, it’s strange that she asked you to drive instead of me. Could be nothing, but something isn’t sitting right with me.”
“Did you ask her?”
Amie nodded. “She said all the planning has worn her out, and she’ll spend the next week resting.”
“I’m sure that’s all it is. Your aunt’s never been one to shy from health problems or ignore them.”
Her chest deflated with a relieved sigh. “You’re right, and I need to stop being a worrywart.”
He squeezed her to him, planted a brief kiss on her forehead. “We’ll keep an eye on her today, just to be sure. If we notice anything unusual, we’ll ask her to see the doctor.”
“Thanks for understanding.” She pulled away. “I snuck out to warn you beforehand. I’ll let her know you’re here.”
“Can I help load anything?”
“There’s a box on the counter with Aunt Sally’s various contest entries. You can grab them if you’d like and carry them out.” She opened the screen door and entered the house.
Following her, he spotted Aunt Sally nearing the bottom of the stairs. Her eyes lacked their normal sparkle, and he understood Amie’s concern. He offered his hand to assist her down the final steps. “Good morning, Drew. Aren’t you the picture of dapperness?”
“Thank you. How are you feeling today?” he asked casually, not missing a beat.
“Wonderful, but these old bones will be grateful for some rest once the celebration is over.” At the bottom of the steps, she pecked his cheek. “Thank you for being my chauffeur today.”
“Anything for you.” He released her hand. “I’ll be right back.”
Amie clasped Aunt Sally’s hand and walked her to the truck while he grabbed the box from the counter. He noticed a medicine bottle left out, which heightened his worry. Could be for anything. Although he was tempted to examine it closer for any clue to her health, he couldn’t bring himself to breach her privacy.
However, he did sneak a look inside the box of goodies. He spied Aunt Sally’s famous caramel apple pie, and a jar each of corn relish, strawberry jam, and apple butter. His mouth watered, and he hoped there’d be a slice of pie left over after the judging.
The women were already buckled when he reached the truck. He dropped the box in the back seat next to Amie, who gave him a suspicious smile. Quirking a brow, he looked at her, but she didn’t say a word. Maybe he’d imagined it.
“Everyone ready?” He glanced to Aunt Sally, then Amie.
They both nodded.
He left the driveway, humming The Star-Spangled Banner. The sun shone from a cloudless cerulean sky. Mild temperatures with low humidity kept the air comfortable.
“A beautiful day to celebrate the birth of our nation, isn’t it?” A serene smile rested on Aunt Sally’s face, but as with Amie’s, he detected more to it.
“Sure beats last year’s thunderstorm.” He’d come home just for the event, only to have the parade canceled for the first time in its one hundred year history.
“Mindy Rosette still hasn’t gotten over missing her opportunity to ride on the Ms. Jasper Lake float.” Aunt Sally rolled her eyes. “She pitched such a fit, we finally agreed to let her share the glory with Tina Donovan this year.”
Amie leaned forward. “The same Mindy that stole my clothes from the shore so I had to walk home in my bathing suit?”
“The one and only.” Drew glanced away so Amie wouldn’t see his smile at the memory. “Some people never change.”
“Drew Sullivan,” Amie charged. “You can look away, but I see your chest shaking, trying not to laugh.”
He let the laughter flow. “Sorry, but it was funny.”
She harrumphed and sat back in her seat. “It was embarrassing!”
“That was fifteen years ago. I’m sure no one even remembers.” From the rearview mirror, he caught a glimpse of her smile and was relieved to know she didn’t harbor a real grudge.
“Behave, children, and be nice, Amie.” Turning her head, Aunt Sally winked at her niece. “We need him in a good mood.”
“That’s it.” Drew stopped for a family crossing the road. “You two have something up your sleeve. Time to fess up.”
Amie laid a hand on her Aunt’s shoulder. “Do you want to ask him?”
“No, ma’am.” Aunt Sally rose a palm. “This is all on you.”
The car behind them beeped their horn, and Drew drove forward. “Why do I have the feeling I’ll regret coming today?”
“It’s not so bad.” Amie gave a sugary sweet smile. “Lloyd Benson’s gout flared up, and he has to sit out the parade.”
“So?” His shoulders rose in a mild shrug.
Amie gave an exasperated sigh. “Lloyd always played Uncle Sam in the parade. Even I know that.”
The pieces connected. “No way, absolutely not.”
“Please,” Amie begged. “There’s no one else able to step in.”
“I’m sure there’s someone. What about Pete Stanton?”
“He leads the little league team.” Aunt Sally shook a finger. “And before you suggest one of the moms take his spot, they all have their own assigned tasks.”
“Clint?” They very thought of dressing in the gaudy costume induced hives.
“His company has their own float.” Amie continued to stare expectantly at him.
Resigned to his fate, he accepted the inevitable. “I’m not going to win this battle, am I?”
“Does that mean you’ll do it?” The perked-up tone of Amie’s voice made it all worthwhile.
“Yes.”
“Thank you.” She stretched over the seat and gave his cheek a kiss.
“What exactly does the task involve?” He rubbed his eyes, picturing the humiliation.
“All you have to do is wear the costume and stand on the float, waving as you pass the crowds.” Aunt Sally’s hand dipped into her purse and withdrew several rubber red, white, and blue bracelets. “You’ll also be given a bag of these to toss. Try to get them to the kids, not adults.”
“That part I can handle.” He drove into the parking area and found a spot. After exiting, he hurried to open the doors for Aunt Sally and Amie. “Where will you ladies be?”
Aunt Sally slid out. “I’ll be in the grandstand, announcing each float.”
Amie pointed to her aunt. “I’ll be with her.”
“You’re not coming with me?” In the back of his mind, h
e’d pictured enjoying the parade with Amie.
“I’ll be cheering you on from the sidelines.” Sidling up to him, she gave an irresistible smile. “And then we’ll spend the entire rest of the day together.”
“You owe me,” he growled in a low voice.
Unfazed, she continued to smile. “You’ll have fun. Don’t forget, I know you better than you think.”
Maybe she was right. Once he got past the idea of wearing the costume, participating in the parade did sound fun. He’d been in it many times as a child, and it had been a blast. His favorite time was the year fifty kids dressed up as states. He’d been Texas and wore a cowboy hat two sizes too big for him. Dena wasn’t so fortunate—she’d been selected for Maine and had to dress as a lobster. She’d extracted a promise from their mom not to take pictures, but he knew for certain a few had made their way into the family album.
Amie tugged on his arm while looking at Aunt Sally. “I’ll show him where to go, then take care of your entries.”
“Thank you, dear.”
“Do you need help to get to the grandstand?” Drew still worried about her peaked features.
“I’ll be fine. You two kids run along and have fun.”
Hesitating, Amie touched the phone she’d slipped into her pocket. “I have my phone if you need anything, but I’ll see you in a few minutes, regardless.”
As they walked in a separate direction of Aunt Sally, Amie clutched his arm. “See what I mean? She’s not herself.”
“Let’s pray she’s only tired. She has put a tremendous amount of energy into planning today.”
“I hope that’s all.”
“Do you know if she has any medical conditions?” He paused, debating if he should bring up the medicine bottle. “I wasn’t trying to be nosy, but she left a bottle on the counter.”
Amie’s eyes shuttered.
“I didn’t look at it if that’s what you’re thinking. It wasn’t my place, but if she’s taking medicine, maybe there’s something we don’t know.”
“She is elderly. She could be on any number of medications.” She took a deep breath. “But the bottle on the counter was mine.”