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As I got inside, starting the engine, I could tell he was uncomfortable. That also gave me a slight smile. I was a naughty girl.
“What are you doing, Aspen?”
“Just something. Relax. We’ll be there in no time.”
I turned on the radio in some crazy effort to help with the tension that remained deep within me. His reaction would mean everything to me. I remained nervous during the drive, my breath skipping. This event was important to the winery, the commercial a make it or break it situation. Whatever happened could change everything.
After a few minutes, he jerked forward. “Okay, little brat. Time to come clean.”
“That’s not going to happen. Not yet. You just have to wait. You can do that, can’t you?” I laughed after saying the words.
“You are so going to get it.”
“As I said before. We shall see.”
Fifteen minutes later, I pulled into the parking lot, the area blocked off for the wineries involved in the event. When I cut the engine, I took a deep breath. I’d almost died in the fire. There was so much I couldn’t remember, but the few things I did only fueled the love I had for the man sitting next to me.
He’d saved my life by risking his own.
I noticed Maggie racing toward us. The look on her face was priceless. I’d enlisted her help, her recent phone calls more precious to me than I realized. Just seeing her face made everything seem that much more real. I was so glad I’d sent her a plane ticket.
“I have a friend who’s going to help us today,” I said before opening the door. I could already feel the effects of the music for the festival, the vibrations dancing in the Jeep.
“And just where are we?” Montgomery asked.
“Just somewhere.” As soon as I opened the door, I had a feeling the music had given away my plans.
“Aspen!” Maggie yelled as she raced toward me, dragging me into a hug. “I’ve missed you.”
“And I’ve missed you. You’re going to help me?” I asked as I pushed her away.
“You know I will. Is that the hunk of a man you were telling me about?”
“Yep. And he’s a handful.”
She wrinkled her nose. “I can handle him.”
As we both pulled Montgomery from the passenger seat, he grumbled under his breath. He didn’t like being out of control for a second.
“What is all this noise?” he demanded in his usual tone.
“Just some music. Nothing to worry about.” Together, Maggie and I dragged him forward. I was amazed at the number of people at the festival, the entire atmosphere jazzed. As we approached the tent that had been set up to premiere the commercial, I felt a tightness in my chest. What if no one liked what Jackson and I had spent so much time putting together?
“You can sit right here,” I whispered in Montgomery’s ear, helping him ease onto the seat located right in front.
“Wow. There are so many people here,” Maggie said then whistled.
“That’s what I was hoping for. When I give you the sign, remove his mask.”
She squeezed my arm. “This is amazing. I’m so glad I’m here.”
“I’m thrilled to have you here, but I’m worried.” I noticed Jackson at the front. He waved, indicating everything was in motion.
“Stop worrying. From what I can tell, you found the love of your life. But…”
“But what?” I gave her a look, laughing as I noticed the way she was looking at Jackson.
“Who is that gorgeous man?”
