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The list of things I love about Greenwood is endless, but the scenery is at the top of it. Greenwood is the epitome of a small, Southern town. As I drive down the winding roads, the landscape unfolds like a carefully painted canvas. The air comes in through my window, and it's heavy with the sweet scent of magnolias and honeysuckles.
To my left, vast fields of tall, swaying grass stretch out, a sea of green and gold dancing in harmony with the wind. Wildflowers dot the landscape, adding vibrant pops of color. Even over the hum of my engine I can hear the chirping of crickets and the chorusing of cicadas.
On my right, the Georgia pines stand tall and proud, their branches covered in Spanish moss and white spots. The sunlight filters through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the road in front of me. As I drive further, the trees part to reveal glimpses of hidden ponds and meandering creeks, their waters reflecting the stunning blue sky above.
The road twists and turns, revealing charming homes, their front porches complete with rocking chairs and a smattering of rustic log cabins. Dense woodlands and pastures host herds of grazing horses and livestock. White picket fences frame well-kept gardens. Southern hospitality is ingrained in our town's spirit, and it's the perfect meld of country and calm.
As I approach the heart of Greenwood, the town square comes into view. Historic buildings with wrought-iron balconies line the streets, each one telling a tale of times gone by. The town's clock tower stands tall, a sentinel marking the passage of time in this idyllic haven.
Greenwood's charm lies not only in its physical beauty but also in the warmth of its people. Neighbors wave as I drive by, their smiles genuine and their greetings sincere. The sense of community here is unmatched, and it's a place where time slows down, allowing its residents to savor the moments and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.
But today, even the sweet, homey feel of my small town fails to ease my anxiety. The kiss from last night still plays in my mind. And truthfully I'm ashamed to admit how many times I've fantasized about the feel of Deacon's warm lips on mine.
Let's be honest. We've all indulged in those movies where we root for the two people that can't stand each other, secretly hoping they'll get together in the end. The tension only heightens the appeal. Every encounter teeters between heated arguments and moments of undeniable chemistry, keeping us on the edge of our seats.
Deacon and I definitively have enough tension between us to ignite a blaze and last night, sparks flew. His kiss was so intense it took my breath away. He made my skin tingle and my nerves sing. The only thing missing was a movie soundtrack in the background.
That's why I'm meeting up with Bella, my best friend since high school, at the quaint little coffee shop we’ve been visiting since we were young. I need her to help me get my head on straight. Heck, maybe she's going to slap some sense into me and remind me not to fall for the handsome oaf just because he's got the most mesmerizing eyes I've ever seen.
I pull into a parking spot in front of the coffee shop. Its large windows let in the perfect amount of natural light, giving it a bright, cheerful ambiance. Even though this is the best spot for people watching in town, the tables always manage to feel private somehow. A bell chimes as I open the door, announcing my arrival, but the sound is lost in the soft jazz that fills the room.
I make my way to the counter to order for both Bella and me. When in doubt, coffee is always the best answer. As the waitress prepares our drinks, I glance around the shop and scan the faces of the patrons sitting inside. Then, I spot her.
Bella's dark hair is braided in a crown around her head, and her petite frame is draped in a bright floral maxi dress that compliments her light brown complexion. She's the closest thing I have to a sister. Her bright eyes meet mine, and she gives a little wave.
"Two black coffees?" The waitress smiles, placing two takeaway cups on the counter.
"Yes, thank you," I say, handing her the money in exchange for the steaming beverages. With our drinks in hand, I walk toward Bella and kiss her cheek before taking the seat across from her.
"Harper girl, good to see you," she says, eyeing me over her glasses. "Been a while."
"Yeah. I know. I'm sorry," I reply, trying to hide the guilt in my voice. Truth is, I'm not very social these days. My focus is on the resort, and it has been for quite some time.
"It's okay. I know you're busy." She smiles, placing a hand on top of mine. "Now spill. Why am I here?"
"Can't a girl just want to catch up with her best friend? Maybe I miss your beautiful face, Bella," I tease, trying to deflect from my intentions for the coffee date.
She bursts into laughter and shakes her head. "Please. You and I both know that's not why we're here. You're missing that beautiful shine of yours. I always know when something's wrong, Harper. Come on, you can tell me."
I sigh and take a sip of my coffee. "Promise you won't call me crazy?"
Bella lifts her hand up. "Scout's honor!"
I bite my lip and shift in my seat, unsure of how to start. But eventually, I go for it. "Have you heard that Deacon is back in town?"
She nods and waves a hand in front of me, as if to coax me into talking more. "Mmhmm. Looking as good as ever and all of that hotness wasted on a less than appealing personality. Such a shame," she tsks.
I huff a laugh and let my gaze fall to the table. "About that. He actually seems… different. He’s kind of nice. Maybe, more than nice." I don't want to lift my eyes to meet hers, but her reaction definitely catches my attention.
Bella gasps and brings a hand to her chest, the over-the-top gesture making me roll my eyes. "What is that supposed to mean?" she asks.
I make the mistake of looking up. She's got a shock and horror look on her face. She's so dramatic.
"Nothing, really. Forget it," I say, sitting back in my seat.
"Oh no, you've already dug the hole, and now you're going to tell me what's going on, Miss 'I can't stand that guy, and I would never, ever call him nice.'"
I shrug and chew on the corner of my lip, looking away.
