AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“We still have the upstairs to finish, and the kitchen. But the real surprise is out back.”
Stepping through the sprawling archway that led to the garden, I felt my breath catch. Enzo had outdone himself, transforming the once-overlooked space at Sunshine Acres into a haven of tranquility and beauty.
The hedges were sculpted with an artist's precision, flowers bloomed in vibrant bursts of color, and the pea gravel paths wound lazily through it all like ribbons of silver. My heart ached just thinking about his guilt; he'd been beating himself up for not being there when danger had loomed over me. But seeing his dedication laid out before me, I knew his work was more than just penance—it was a testament to his unwavering friendship.
“Wow, Enzo. It’s incredible,” I murmured, unable to stop the grin spreading across my face.
“Yup,” Gray agreed, his gaze scanning the expanse of greenery with a hint of pride. “Said something about Italian gardens inspiring him.”
“Looks like Tuscany has come to Whittier Falls,” I quipped, leaning into Gray as we walked.
In the heart of the garden, amidst the symphony of nature, Gray had prepared a surprise that made my heart do a little two-step. A checkered blanket lay spread out under the shade of a towering oak, while baskets of mouth-watering food sat like treasure chests waiting to be opened. It was a picture-perfect scene straight out of a romance novel—except the hero was a real-life cowboy with a penchant for grumpiness and a side of swoon-worthy tenderness.
“Gray Anderson, are you trying to sweep me off my feet?” I teased, stepping onto the blanket and sinking down onto the soft fabric.
“Maybe,” he drawled, settling next to me with that easy grace that cowboys seemed born with. “Figured a picnic might do the trick.”
I watched as he unpacked the basket: homemade sandwiches, fresh fruit, and what looked suspiciously like Eryn Blake-approved vegan brownies. My heart swelled knowing he remembered my preferences. His hands, rough from ranch work, handled everything with a care that belied their strength. Those same hands reached out to brush a stray lock of hair from my face, his touch sending sparks dancing across my skin.
“Thank you, Gray.” My voice held a sincerity that mirrored the warmth in his blue eyes. “This is . . . it's perfect.”
“Nothing but the best for you, princess,” he said, and there it was—the rare smile that knocked the air right out of my lungs.
“But there is far too much food here. You have, what, three baskets?” I asked, looking around.
“Well, you never know who might turn up.”
The rustling sound of the grass announced their arrival before I even turned my head. Zaya, a vision in her vibrant yellow sundress, and Skylar, with that movie-star glamour, burst onto the scene like two rays of unexpected sunshine. Gray's hand tightened around mine, a silent explanation.
“Surprise!” Zaya's voice carried across the garden. Her braids swung from side to side as she made a beeline for me, arms outstretched and ready for an embrace.
“Did you think we'd let you have all the fun without us?” Skylar chimed in, her blue contacts twinkling with mischief, embodying her on-screen persona even in the midst of this small-town setting.
Their laughter was infectious, and soon enough, Gray's low chuckle blended into the symphony of our collective mirth. It was impossible not to get swept up in the whirlwind of their presence.
“Y'all sure know how to make an entrance,” I said as I pulled away from Zaya's hug. “I can't believe you're here!”
“Wouldn't miss it for the world,” Skylar replied, settling down on the blanket beside me. “Plus, who says no to a picnic with the hottest cowboy in town?”
Gray raised an eyebrow but didn't object, evidently pleased with the title—even if he wouldn't say it out loud.
As if on cue, the rest of our motley crew made their way over. Sharon, and Hazel, whose sharp wit was only matched by her love for this family were escorted by Walker, his relaxed swagger back now that things had settled down.
Mason, his eyes softening as he held little Abby's hand, led the way while Damon's tall frame towered over Sutton, who carried a tray of her infamous baked goods from Campfire Bakery that filled the air with a sweet, buttery aroma.
“Look at this turnout,” Hazel exclaimed, her pixie cut impeccable as always. “Eryn, darling, you've got yourself quite the fan club.”
The teasing tone of her voice made me blush, but it was true—each person here had played a part in helping me heal, both physically and emotionally.
“Welcome to the party,” Gray said, standing to greet everyone with a handshake or a hug. The gruff cowboy I first met seemed like a distant memory compared to this man, who wore his heart on his sleeve for all to see.
“Couldn't miss celebrating Eryn's recovery,” Mason said, gently nudging his daughter forward. Abby handed me a small bouquet of wildflowers she must have picked on the way.
“Thank you, sweetie,” I said, touched by the gesture. “These are beautiful.”
“Like you,” Abby whispered, hiding behind her father's leg. My heart swelled with affection for these people who had become my family.
“Let's eat!” Sutton declared, setting down her tray of pastries. “I've got enough treats here to feed an army, and I'm not taking any leftovers back.”
