Page 8 of Fire Bear

Ash inhaled, savoring the admission. He typed a final message for the night.

Ash: It is for me too. See you soon, Eliana.

Eliana: Goodnight, and sweet dreams…

Ash shook his head, lips curving into a half-smile as he read her sign-off. Sweet dreams indeed.

Chapter

Five

The orchard’smain clearing was lined with tables, and tents rimmed the perimeter. Visitors would soon stroll between them, sampling cider, tasting homemade pies, buying crafts, and local delicacies.

Eliana’s heart pounded with anticipation. This event started as a modest apple-tasting day decades ago. But it had evolved into an annual orchard festival that drew crowds from across the region. She gulped, determined not to let her nerves get to her. No matter how anxious she felt, she reminded herself that this was her orchard’s moment to shine.

Pausing at a tasting station for the orchard’s newer cider blends, she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. Her pulse kicked up a notch. She swiftly opened it, noticing Ash’s name at the top of the screen.

Ash: Morning, Orchard Lady. I’m finishing up some errands. Confirming again, I’ll be there around four. Can’t wait to see you.

Eliana reread the lines, a small grin curling on her lips. She typed back:

Eliana: We’re putting finishing touches on everything. I’ll be waiting with fresh cider.

Pocketing the phone, she forced her mind back to logistical tasks. Eliana spotted Talia adjusting a display of heritage apples in one of the booths. The sign read “Historic Apple Showcase.” Multicolored apples glistened in the morning sun.

“Hey, Talia,” Eliana greeted warmly, stepping up to lend a hand. “Everything looking good?”

Talia gave a small, nervous laugh. “Mostly. The new orchard map stand is up, the signs are done. But you look a bit flushed. Nerves?”

Sighing, Eliana decided to mention the thoughts swirling in her head. “We have a big crowd coming, and, well… I also have someone in particular showing up. From mate.com.”

Talia’s brows lifted. “Mate.com? That shifter dating app?”

Eliana nodded. “His name is Ash Bright, the Fire Patrol Chief. He’s apparently my 100% match.”

“A 100% match? That’s pretty serious,” Talia said, pausing before she continued in a cautious tone. “I don’t want to rain on your parade, but you need to be careful. Even if a man claims to be your soul mate, things can get messy if your connection isn’t built on a real foundation. Trust me, I know from experience. Keep your eyes open for red flags.”

Eliana exhaled, appreciating her friend’s concern. “I will. But I can’t ignore the possibility that we really are fated mates.”

Talia nodded slowly, then squeezed Eliana’s shoulder. “I hope he’s everything you deserve.”

A moment of understanding passed between them. Eliana felt a mixture of gratitude for Talia’s support and a stubborn desire to prove that not all relationships ended in heartbreak. She wouldn’t let fear overshadow what might be her best chance at love.

Mateo bounced over, wearing a fresh apron embroidered with the orchard’s logo. “Ms. Hampton, we’ve got a small group of early visitors at the orchard gate. Is it okay if I start giving them a mini tour?”

“Of course,” Eliana said, tucking a stray hair behind her ear. “That would be fantastic. Show them the orchard’s main rows, maybe let them sample an apple or two.”

“Yes, ma’am!” he replied, eyes gleaming. “I’ll take them past the compost station too, so they see our sustainable stuff.”

Eliana watched him dash off to greet the arriving guests, her heart swelling with pride. This was exactly the community spirit she wanted to foster. By late afternoon, the orchard was alive with visitors.

The sun cast a warm glow over the booths, though a few scattered clouds offered patches of shade. Eliana moved from tent to tent, greeting vendors and ensuring everyone had enough supplies. The air smelled of apples, cinnamon, and fresh pastries from a local baker’s booth. Her phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen.

Ash: I’m here. See you soon.

Her stomach flipped.

Eliana: Great, I’m at the festival clearing. Can’t wait.

---