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“You’re welcome. Let’s go inside and check it out.”
We got out of the truck and held hands as we walked to the shop. We were greeted by an older couple at the front desk, and I confirmed the tour appointment I’d made a few days ago when I’d concocted this entire plan to get her espresso machine and surprise her with this trip.
“You’re in luck. A large group just left, so it’s going to be a cozy tour,” the woman said, shooting us a wink. I glanced at Sav, and she still had a wide smile.
Goddamn, she was so beautiful.
We went through the tour, watching the entire process behind the scenes. Sav asked questions and seemed excited by everything she learned. I stayed quiet, keeping my hands tucked into my jeans pockets as I watched her interact and nerd out.
I loved seeing her gush over her hobbies, and I wanted to be the one to give her more experiences like this.
Once we got to the end of the tour, they showed us how to make a proper espresso using a machine similar to the one I’d bought her. She also had a speedy lesson in latte art that she seemed incredibly focused on.
“Thank you for everything,” Sav said as we took our to-go cups of coffee and left the building. One of the food trucks had tacos, so we ordered and sat at a picnic table, enjoying our lunch together.
“What’d you think?” I asked, hoping she loved it.
She covered her mouth as she finished chewing her bite. “It was so amazing,” she said. “I didn’t know much about processing the beans, so that was interesting. I’m also excited for Linda to visit Sparks and check out the coffee bar when we open. She signed up for our newsletter and everything.”
“That’s great, babe. I’m so glad you had a good time.”
“I can’t wait to tell Grampa about it.” She paused and gave me a soft look. “Seriously. Thank you so much for today. I haven’t had a fun day out like this in a long time.”
I grinned. She had no idea I still had other things planned for today and tonight. I’d already taken the day off tomorrow, knowing Sav would have Monday off too because she worked Saturday.
I wasn’t going to waste any of it without her.
20
SAV
I was exhaustedin a new way as we headed back to Carswell. Last night had been an emotional rollercoaster, and today filled me with excitement and wonderment over the idea of developing a new skill. Chris made me feel better about the disaster at the restaurant, and I felt understood in a way I hadn’t experienced before.
The feeling inspired memories of the last time we were close. Chris used to pick me up from school and take me out for pizza and milkshakes before taking me home. In college, I called him at least a few times a week to hear his voice while lulling myself to sleep.
All the memories inspired a sense of comfort I’d been missing since that stupid drunken night that had put distance between us, but I was also terrified about what it all meant. The distance over the years hadn’t lessened my true feelings for him. If anything, they’d grown stronger, and our new relationship was already beginning to feel . . . permanent.
I only hoped I was right. I wasn’t sure I’d survive another heartbreak.
As I thought about this, we passed my house, continuing to head into town. I turned to face Chris. “Where are we going?”
His face shifted into a mischievous smile. “You didn’t think I was done with you for today, did you?”
My cheeks heated. “What does that mean?”
He grabbed my hand and lifted it to his mouth for a soft kiss. “That means I’m taking you back to my place for the rest of the day.” His gaze stayed focused on the road in front of us. “I’m making you dinner, and you’re staying the night with me. If you want to, of course.”
If I wanted to?
I almost laughed like a maniac. Of course, I wanted to.
“What about a change of clothes?”
“I grabbed some things while you were showering this morning.”
I gasped, placing a hand on my chest in mock surprise, though I was a little shocked. “You snooped through my things? Myunderthings?”
He shrugged. “Yep. Sorry, but I wanted to keep the surprises coming.”
