Page 37 of Espresso Your Love

“I have one more thing to share.” I look at Ashley, my heart pounding at the news.

Ashley stops and stares back at me waiting for me to say something.

I close my eyes. “Ryan asked me out…and I said yes.”

When I only hear leaves rustling along the ground, I open one eye. Ash’s eyes are wide, and her hands cover her gaping mouth. I wait for a squeal, but she’s silent. I’ve never seen her so quiet before. I’ve stunned her into silence.

“Ashley, are you okay?” I wave a hand in front of her face.

“You said yes?” she asks, surprised.

“Don’t be so dramatic! Yes, I said yes! I told you I would.”

“But, Cass, I didn’t think you actually would. I thought you’d talk yourself out of it…or run away again.”

I push her shoulder. “I only ran away once, okay? I told you I’d try to be open. And here I am.”

Ashley squeals. “Did you set a date?”

I nod. “Tomorrow night.”

“Want me to come over before?”

I grab her arm. “Would you? Please?”

“Absolutely, I will!” She wraps her arm around my shoulder. “I’m so proud of you, Cass.”

“Thanks, Ash. Coffee?”

“Do you need caffeine? You would think you’d be on an adrenaline high right now.”

“I can always use coffee.”

12

Ryan

My morning is off to a great start. I really enjoyed spending time with Cassie and asking her out. I want to know her more, and the only way we’ll do that is by spending more time together.

My shift has been quiet, and now I’m heading back to the station for our last security meeting before the festival. Everyone insisted we didn’t need it, but I’d rather be overly prepared than the alternative. The concert in Birmingham was a close call, too close. I will not let that happen again.

Max follows my strides as we enter the station. Cecilia waves me over with a bright smile.

“Afternoon, Cecilia. How are you today?”

“I’m peachy keen. And you?”

“I can’t complain.”

“You know, you better make your move now before that girl leaves.”

My brows furrow together. “I’m not sure I understand.”

“Oh, you know, the Mercer family. They are hirin’ her for some event. He has a billionaire grandson, you know.”

“Yes, I’ve heard of the Mercers. That’s great for Cassie.”

Cecilia leaned in close and whispered, “Better make your move soon, Officer Hayes. Sounds like she won’t be in this small town forever.”

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