AllFreeNovel
Share Us
When the first car stopped in front of us, a man opened his window and leaned his elbow out. “Where do you want us?”
“Welcome to Monroe Farm. You’ll want to park by the barn, where the man in orange is standing. He’ll direct you to a spot.”
“Thanks,” he said as he continued forward.
The next thirty minutes passed in a blur. I fielded questions about food, how long the movie would be, and whether there was a bathroom. A few people mentioned how great it was that we were doing this. It was the Monroes’ decision, not mine, but it still felt good since I’d helped.
When the last car passed by, Heath said, “We can take a break for a while. I’ll send one of the other guys down here to watch for stragglers. Ireland will probably want you by the food.”
We walked up the hill together.
“That was a little overwhelming. I can’t believe you do this every day for weeks during the season.”
“It’s a lot. Especially when most of us aren’t a fan of peopling.”
I chuckled. “I’m not used to it either.”
“Even with your online presence?”
“It’s not the same as in person. But it was nice to hear how excited everyone is about the event.”
“This was all you,” Heath said as we made our way up the hill to where the crowd was gathered.
“This is Ireland’s baby. I just had the idea, and she executed it.”
“That’s not what I heard. Ireland has said repeatedly that she couldn’t have done it without you. That you were a genius when it came to planning, details, and the marketing materials.”
“She could have done it. At the very least, she can do it going forward.”
“Everyone appreciates your help,” Heath said when we reached the others.
Before I could respond, Ireland spotted me and grabbed my hand, pulling me away from Heath. “There you are. I need you.”
“Where do you want me?”
“Why don’t you man the food table with Lori? I’m going to walk around and see if everyone’s settled for the movie to start.”
“I can do that.” I stood next to Lori, who explained her process to me, and I quickly helped the next person in line. Lori took their order and cash, and I got their food. It was quick and easy. When the movie was ready to start, Ireland stood in front of the crowd, thanking everyone for coming. “And I couldn’t have done it without Marley Matthews’s help. So, thank her when you see her. This was her idea.”
The crowd clapped, and my face heated. Now everyone would know that I was home. I wasn’t sure how I felt about that.
The movie started, and the line for concessions slowed. There was still the occasional kid that ran over, asking for candy or popcorn. But most of the sandwich sales were done. I made a note of what we sold and what we’d need next time.
I wanted Ireland to net a profit and not waste any food. It was a delicate balancing act.
“Why don’t you go enjoy the movie with Heath?” Lori asked.
I followed her finger to see him standing near the back of the crowd, talking to Emmett. “Are you sure you’re okay here?”
“I’m more than okay, and I’ll ask for help if I need it.” Lori squeezed my arm before I walked away.
Every time I hung out with the Monroes, I fell more in love with them, especially Heath. I adored him and his family, and I was dangerously close to wanting to stay forever. But now that the movie night was a success, they didn’t need me anymore.
Heath’s gaze tracked my movement as I made my way to him. “Hey, you. How’s it going?”
“The concession stand was busy. How do you think people like the atmosphere?” I asked him quietly as I moved to his side.
There were clusters of people, groups of friends, and families sitting together. We asked that they not bring in food or drink, and so far, I hadn’t heard any grumbling about that.
