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“I hope I grow up to be like you two,” I say.
We drop the packages at the donation table, and then the three of us find a spot on the shore to watch the parade.
When Bob’s name is called, we cheer as Keller and Bran push him off from the edge of the lake.
Sandra, who was helping launch her own family’s entry, walks over and wraps her arms around Bran. He returns the hug before stepping back, and I watch as he smiles down at her while they carry on an animated conversation.
Mom leans over my shoulder and says into my ear, “You’re smitten.”
“I am not,” I disagree.
“Protest if you must, but I spy love dancing in your eyes when you look at him.”
She lifts her chin toward Bran, who is still chatting up his old friend, who he went on two dates with.
“I’m incapable of falling in love, Mom. My love thingy is broken.”
“You mean, your heart?” she clarifies.
“Yeah, that useless organ.”
“Oh, Hannah.”
“Please don’t, Mom,” I mutter.
“You spend every second of your life making someone else’s dreams come true. When did you stop chasing your own?” she asks.
I turn and face her. “I do chase my dreams. That’s why I work so hard.”
Her eyes fill with sympathy, which really strikes a nerve with me.
“You of all people know why I’m not willing to take risks with my heart anymore.”
“Oh, baby, there’s always a risk. In business and in love. But if you don’t take the leap, you can’t ever reap the reward.”
“I live in the moment, Mom. I soak in what makes me happy right now, and I don’t make plans for the future. Right now is all I need.”
Willa plops down beside me. “Did I miss it?” she asks.
“No,” I answer.
She has a bag in her hands.
“Roasted chestnut?” she offers.
“No, thanks. I think I’m going to head back to the inn,” I say as I stand.
“Are you okay?” she asks.
I look at Bran, who is now watching with Keller as Bob flips the lights of the boat, then back to Mom and Willa.
“Yeah. I’m just ready to go to bed.”
“Okay. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Good night.”
“Sweet dreams, Hannah,” Mom says.
