Page 123 of The Things That Hold Us

I cover my face, embarrassed.

“Is it Logan?” she asks, and Garrett's eyes catch mine in the mirror.

“It is.” I say quietly.

“Girl. Put that man out of his misery.”

“It's only been a few hours, Cassie. I still don't know how I feel.”

She laughs, sitting back in her seat, “You might not know how you feel, but I do. I can see it in your eyes.”

Logan doesn't text back, and while that makes me sad, I know he’s just trying to give me space that I asked for, even if I don’t like it.

I just want to talk to him. To see him. To touch him..

But my heart keeps telling me that this is wrong, that I shouldn’t be feeling these things about someone who isn’t Sam so soon.

And I know, to some that doesn't seem like a good enough reason, or it's something I should be over by now. But Sam was a huge part of my heart, and it hasn't been the same since he left.

I’m scared. I’m scared to give my heart to Logan. What if life has other plans and he gets taken from me too.

I push those thoughts from my head, knowing they won't help me in any way.

I can't control life, and I can't spend my life worrying, I know that.

It's hard, but I guess grief is never easy.

After a very long drive, and one pee stop later, we finally arrive in Sage Valley.

I feel my chest bloom with excitement as the town sign comes into view, and I see the gazebo in the middle of the square. Butterflies flood my stomach at the memory.

I look up and catch Cassie smiling at me in the mirror.

I can't hide anything from her.

“Just over there.” I lean up and point to where my shop is.

That still feels really weird to say.

This new journey is scary, but I am so excited for a fresh start.

Garrett parks the car, and we all get out.

“Oh my god, Char! It's so you.” Cassie says with a big smile. “Look at these windows.” she continues.

“Isn't it perfect? Come on, I’ll show you the inside.”

They both follow me as I unlock the door, and as soon as Cassie walks in, I can hear her gasp.

I know it's just a building to hold old things, but I really hit the jackpot with this space. The lighting is gorgeous. The walls are gorgeous. Everything about it is just perfect.

“So, how’s this going to work? With it being so far, I mean. That’s a pretty long drive babe.”

I look around the shop, and for a split second feel doubtful that I can do this. But I can. I’ll just have to hire help.

“I’ll hire some people to run it during the week.” I shrug my shoulders, like it's no big deal. And it's not. Not completely.

“Char, you know that's going to drive you insane. I’ve never seen someone want to go to work as much as you do. What will you do all day if someone else is running the store?”

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