Page 110 of Welcome Home to Ivy Falls

Mr Wright shot me a hopeful look. When you needed support, this town never let you down.

‘The sheriff’s office has a tent we use at outreach events. I bet we could get it out of storage. Set it up for the reception,’ Deputy Ben called out.

As more people raised their hands, offered their help, Mr Wright rubbed at his eyes.

‘You had to know once they were asked, the town would come through,’ I said.

‘I’ve been so distracted by the everyday business of Ivy Falls that I’ve forgotten it’s not the paperwork or processes that makes this community function – it’s the people. It shouldn’t have taken a destructive act of nature to remind me of that fact.’

‘It’s easy to get caught up in what’s going on in our own lives. To forget that we have an incredible support system here if we ask for it.’ My gaze darted to where Old Mrs V sat with Silvio. How the ache in my chest reminded me that one important face was missing in this crowd.

Ford would have loved the conversations and wild banter that filled this meeting. The way Silvio teased Ferris about his precious roses. How more than once Isabel glanced over her shoulder to make sure the mayor wasn’t pacing too frantically in the back of the room. Old Mrs V’s shushing as too many people spoke over each other.

Tessa continued to recruit help. Manny offered to gather a crew to bring in chairs and string more lights in the gazebo. A few people even volunteered to set up their smokers to make brisket or barbecued pork. Others agreed to bring salads and other side dishes to round out the meal for the reception.

Once every task was filled, the space vibrated with the sound of applause. Amos banged the gavel with a little too much fervor and adjourned the meeting.

People filed toward the back of the room and Mr Wright shook every person’s hand, thanked them personally for their help. Amos came hustling up the aisle toward us with Tessa following.

‘Thought I did pretty good for running my first meeting, don’t you agree?’

It was hard not to smile at the self-satisfied look on Amos’ face.

‘Thanks, pal. You did well,’ Mr Wright answered.

‘Boy, the power of smacking that gavel is a rush. Maybe I’ll run for mayor considering…’

Mr Wright shot Amos a dark look as his old friend pressed his hand over his mouth, shook his head and sped off toward the exit.

‘Dad?’ Tessa propped her hands on her hips. ‘Anything you want to tell us?’

‘I was going to speak to you girls after the wedding, but I’ve decided I’m done being mayor once my term is over. It’s time for someone new to lead Ivy Falls. Guide this town into the future.’

‘Will you go back to the bank full-time?’ Tessa asked.

His gaze flicked to where Isabel was talking to Deputy Ben. ‘Part-time. Isabel and I have been talking about traveling. And…’ His lips split into a wide grin. ‘I’d like to dedicate a lot more time to being a grandpa. Help Torran and Beck out when they need it.’ He reached out and squeezed Tessa’s hand. ‘You and Manny too, because this family is really growing.’

Tessa pressed a kiss to his cheek. ‘I’m headed to Huckleberry Lane. You two want to tag along? Help me tell them the news?’

‘Yes, I want to see exactly how you’re going to convince them this is going to work,’ I said.

Mr Wright pulled us both into a hug and said, ‘Guess we have a wedding to put on!’