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She smirks. “Exactly.”

I walk back into the shop, frowning. “Emma, you knew about this art festival?”

“Yep.”

I narrow my eyes. “Why didn’t you mention it?”

She shrugs. “I thought you knew. Besides, I haven’t seen you since you got back. We had more important things to talk about than a festival.”

“Hmm.” I lean against the counter and cross my arms. “Are you going?”

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” she says, grinning. “Sam is going, too.”

My frown deepens. “Sam? Really? That’s… surprising.”

“Exactly.” She gives me a knowing look.

I roll my eyes. “Maybe I’ll show up.”

She lets out a laugh but doesn’t push. Instead, she yawns dramatically and stretches like a cat. “I’m hungry.”

“You’re always hungry.”

“And you’re always grumpy when you miss someone,” she says, completely deadpan.

I toss a napkin at her, but she just laughs harder. Minutes later, Emma stands and brushes imaginary lint from her cotton pants. “All right, I’ve got to run. Some clients to check in with before the festival kicks off.”

“Oh.”

She leans over and kisses my cheek. “Try not to overthink, okay? Just… breathe. Everything will be all right.”

I roll my eyes but nod, watching her disappear out the door with her usual graceful steps.

The shop goes quiet for a few moments, and then, as if the universe was just waiting for Emma to leave, the door swings open. And again. And again.

Four more customers walk in.

All ordering the same thing.

Calla lilies.

I swear, if one more person asks for them without an explanation, I might start screaming.

Aunt Dotty walks in with Margot several moments later. Margot is a good friend and a key member of our book club. As I exchange pleasantries with Margot and ask about her sisters, Hazel, Thea, and Juniper, my attention is diverted when Aunt Dotty requests calla lilies.

“What’s with the lilies today?” I ask, playfully frowning at Aunt Dotty, who’s wearing an oversized straw hat and sunglasses indoors.

“Art festival, sweetheart. You haven’t heard?”

“Why’s everyone so interested in this festival? And why calla lilies, they’re my favorite.”

“Maybe they’re everyone’s favorites,” Margot chips in with a giggle.

“No way! I don’t believe that.”

“Why? Calla lilies represent love.” Margot winks. “Maybe we’re celebrating love in Bardstown today.”

“What does that mean?” I ask.