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“No problem. I’ve got to get going anyway.” Harrison stands and takes our empty drink containers to the trash.
On our way out we stop by the pickup station to grab Cash’s protein shake that I had them wait to make.
When we step outside of Brew Haven, Main Street is bustling with residents enjoying a beautiful Sunday morning.
I spot Cash stretching at the park across the street, sweat dripping down his forehead. He’s got on a baseball cap, black shorts, and running shoes, and predictably he’s shirtless.
Harrison rolls his eyes. “He’s such a show-off. In this town, going shirtless is bound to get people talking.”
“Well then, I better go over there and give them something worthwhile to talk about,” I say with a wink. “Did you want to come over and say hi to him?”
“Nah, there’s one more errand I have to run before I take off.”
“Okay, thanks for the chat, Harrison.”
“Anytime, Everly. I’m really glad you’re my sister-my-law.”
“Me too.”
He gives me a small wave before pulling out his phone and walking away, his expression turning serious again as he disappears around the corner.
I cross the street to join Cash, and he looks up as I approach, a megawatt smile on his face. He stands up straight and closes the gap between us, winding his arm around my waist and cradling my head with his hand.
“I missed you.” He grabs my jaw, pressing his mouth to mine in an obscene kiss.
“Mmm,” I moan softly. “You remember we’re in a public place, right?” I glance around at several onlookers giving us the side-eye.
“They’re going to gossip either way.”
“I like your way of thinking, Stafford.” I rise on my toes to give him another kiss. We’re in our own private bubble, two souls ignited by a mutual love for one another, the outside world forgotten.
When Cash finally breaks away, I’m left breathless.
“What do you have there?” He motions to the drink in my hand. Thankfully, I didn’t drop it during our impromptu make-out session.
“It’s for you.” I hand him the green protein shake.
“Thanks, Ev.” He grins and ushers me over to a nearby park bench. “I saw you in front of the coffee shop with Harrison, but didn’t want to interrupt.”
“Did you know he was in town?”
He taps his fingers against his cup, avoiding my gaze.
“I know we said no more secrets, and I’ll tell you this one. Tomorrow.”
I narrow my eyes at him. “Is this a trick?”
He shakes his head. “No tricks.” He leans in to kiss my temple. “It’s part of your surprise. You’ll see soon enough, I promise.”
“I can’t wait.”
I’m looking forward to whateveritmay be.
31
CASH
I’M ON CLOUD NINE. THIStrip to Aspen Grove has exceeded all my exceptions so far. As long as tomorrow goes well and Everly reacts the way I think she will when I show her what I’ve been working on.