He cupped the side of my face. His rough, calloused thumb traced against my jawline. “We’re in this together.”
Ash took my hand and led me outside. It was a gorgeous day. We’d set up tables outside with snacks and treats to enjoy. I figured people would spill inside and out as they chatted with friends and neighbors.
But I never expected anything like this. The lawn was crowded with people. “Oh my God,” I gasped. The entire town had shown up for my open house. I knew Ash had recruited local people to do all the work, so it stood to reason that they might be here, but I never pictured anything like this. Tears burned my eyes.
Ash rubbed my back. “Breathe, babe.”
I blinked rapidly. “This is unreal.”
“Welcome to small-town life.” He chuckled.
I turned and wrapped my arms around his waist. “This is exactly what I wanted. Thank you for making it happen.”
“Nope, wasn’t me. You’re one of us now. We stick together.” He draped his arms over my shoulders. “The townspeople will know every detail about your life whether you want them to or not. Why do you think I live so far outside of town?”
Most of the people were just curiously looking around, which was one of the things I really liked about small-town life. I loved how everyone knew each other and everyone was welcome.
I rolled my eyes at him. “You might sleep outside town, but you’ve pretty much lived at the studio the past few months to get everything done.”
He shrugged. “Worth it when I saw the look on your face.”
Ash had flown out to New York for my final performance. The moment the season was over, we’d hopped in the car and drove to Hollow Peak. The following morning, he surprised me with a completed studio. Needless to say that’s when the desk christening happened.
“Oh my God, why is the fire truck here?” I scanned the area, looking for a problem.
Ash chuckled. “Mason did the built-ins, so he probably wants to show off.”
I watched as the men piled off the truck and began milling around. The men wandered over to the food table where Beth was standing. Even from across the lawn, I could see the blush on her face as she was surrounded by firefighters. Good for her. She deserved a little fun.
“I’m just gonna go say hi,” Ash said, pointing to the men surrounding his sister.
“No, you’re not.” I placed my hand on his arm to keep him in place. “Stop being all big brother and leave her alone.”
“But…” he stammered. The look on his face was priceless. Confusion and helplessness warred with his Papa Bear energy.
“No, you didn’t want her involved in our relationship, so stay out of her private life.”
“Fine,” he grumbled. “But I want brownie points for this.” He pointed his finger at me.
“You got it.” I giggled, then scanned the yard again. “What do you say you introduce me to a few more people so I can get my adult class filled up too?”
“How about a firefighter?” he said through gritted teeth.
“Asher.” I shook my head.
“Fine. Come on, I haven’t met Bennett’s new girlfriend yet. Maybe she wants to dance.” He scanned the lawn. “And there’s Hale, so Mia’s probably around somewhere. I can probably talk her into signing up.”
I threaded my fingers through his and followed him across the lawn. With all the work Ash and the community had put into this studio there was no doubt in my mind that this was what I was meant to do.
This was where I belonged.
***
