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A full-body shiver moved through her. She kept waiting for this heat between them to mellow, but it just seemed to get stronger. “I might let you.”
“Actually, I need you to grab your coat and boots. I have something to show you.”
She raised a brow.
“A gift.” He held up some black fabric. “But I need to blindfold you first.”
She laughed. “What?”
“It’s a surprise.” Stepping up behind her, he put the fabric over her eyes and tied it behind her head. “Trust me?”
Her heart swelled. “Always.”
After they’d put their winter gear on, he led her carefully out to the truck, and whistled for Atlas.
“Boone, where are we going?”
He helped her into the seat and fastened the seatbelt. “Not far.”
It was a short drive and when he finally stopped the truck, she was feeling a tiny bit nervous. “This is a little bit kinky, Boone.”
He opened the passenger door. “No peeking,” he warned.
Gemma held onto his hand as he helped her from the truck. She clung to him as they walked across what felt like gravel. Nearby, Atlas made an excited noise.Where were they?
“Okay, you can look now.” He loosened the blindfold.
She blinked at the light. The temperature had dropped from the sunny morning, so she was bundled up in her favorite coat, scarf, and hat. She saw May and Frank’s general store. The couple were at the window, waving at them.
She smiled and waved back. She’d gotten to know the pair quite well since she’d moved to Vermont.
Boone turned her to face the stone building beside the store. It looked like it had once been a shop or café of some kind, but was now empty.
“What is this place?” she asked.
“It’s yours. For your bakery.”
Her mouth dropped open. She was speechless. He’d known. Known she was nervous and dragging her feet. Known that she just needed a little push…with him at her side.
“Boone…”
“There’s decent traffic on this road, and a lot of locals come to the general store. You’ll get a good number of customers.”
She nodded.
“Come on.” He grabbed her hand and led her to the door. He pulled out some keys and unlocked it.
There was a musty smell inside, but she instantly saw the charm and possibilities. The large windows at the front would let in great light, and the place had lovely wooden floors, even if they did need to be refinished.
“It needs some paint and attention, but this would be a good storefront.” He towed her around the counter and through a door. “There’s a large kitchen back here. We’ll need to put in your ovens. And whatever else you want.”
Her heart swelled as she turned in a slow circle. The place was dusty, and there were cobwebs in the corners, but in her head, she saw her shining bakery.
Boone believed in her. No questions. No hesitation. He had her back, and he loved her.
She knew he’d love her even if she failed, or if she was wildly successful. If it didn’t work out, he’d catch her and help her get back up. If it went well, he’d celebrate her success.
“I love it.” Tears welled.
