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I look up and take in the center of town. Wow. It’s beautiful and magical. Starting over in a place like this sounds nice, but escaping your problems isn’t realistic. I’ll enjoy the time I have here, at least. Chapel Falls is unique, with snow piled on the sidewalks and stores lining Main Street. I walk into different ones, looking around. It helps to clear my mind and focus on something other than my heartache.
Waves of emotions roll over me throughout the day. I wander up and down the small quaint town. I see a gazebo in a small square and take a seat on a bench in the frigid cold. At least the weather is helping numb me. If it freezes my tears, that’d be great. I don’t want to feel anymore. I don’t want to think or hurt.
We were supposed to get things right this time. Everything pointed to a successful relationship. We seemed unbreakable, but Hudson seems to still believe that I can easily change my career path to suit us, suit him. I know relationships should be give and take by both partners, but I don’t want to give up my dream. I don’t want to turn my back on my studio. This isn’t just about teaching dance; it’s about being a part of my community.
Maybe he’s right in saying that my decision speaks volumes, but I love Hudson. I really do. I’m just not sure I love the life he says we can have.
I grab my phone to check the time and see a ton of calls and messages. I forgot I turned on Do Not Disturb.
Hudson stopped calling and writing to me about an hour ago. He probably gave up, realizing I was right. We’re destined for different roads.
Hope has called a ton of times and sent over thirty messages. I read through them, my body trembling with repressed cries.
Lex: I’m ok. Took a detour and will be home soon
Hope: Thank goodness you responded. I was about to send a search and rescue team for you. Where are you? What kind of detour? Hudson is worried sick
Lex: I’m not ready to talk. I’ll be home tomorrow
Hope: Where are you?
Lex: Hope, please. I checked in, let you know I’m alive
Hope: Ok. Call me when you’re ready
I don’t respond. Looking up and seeing how the sun is beginning to set already, I hope there’s a hotel or inn I can stay the night. Driving at night is not my cup of tea.
As I walk back into the center of town, I see a coffee shop I spotted earlier and walk in. A barista should know about a hotel. The interior is charming and adorable. Brick walls, colorful art, and mismatched chairs and tables fill the space.
I attempt a smile when I walk up to the young barista, but her eyebrows furrow.
“Oh, darling, are you okay?” She looks at me with careful observation.
I nod and avert my eyes, looking at the menu behind her on the wall.
“Can I have a chai latte, please?”
“Sure.” She continues to stare at me. “Would you like something sweet?” Her smile is kind, crinkling the corners of her eyes.
“Just the chai,” I shake my head.
“I’ll tell you what, a chocolate chip cookie on me. It’s our famous recipe.”
“Thanks,” I choke out.
“No need to thank me. You look like you could use some sweetness.” My watery eyes betray me.
I pay for my latte and hesitate. When the barista lifts her brows, I dive in. “Do you know if there’s a hotel or an inn with availability for tonight?”
“Chapel Hills Bed and Breakfast. The name isn’t unique, but the building is historical and a dream. Let me call and check if they’ve got a room for you.” She’s so helpful and kind. I watch as she dials the number and asks someone named Donna. She whispers something, likely about my state, and nods.
She smiles when she hangs up and looks at me. “You’ve got a room booked.”
“Thank you,” I sigh. “I’m parked here on Main Street. Is it far?”
“Nope. It’s a block down. Your GPS should get you there, and she’s got parking so you won’t have to lug your suitcase in the cold.”
“Thank you so much,” I say again.
