Page 46 of Falling for Love

A few shops boasted whimsical hand-painted signs that added to the charm. Now that I’d gotten older, I appreciated all those details.

Buttercup Java was smack in the middle. Its large windows glowed softly, and I couldn’t wait to meet Evie here.

A chalkboard sign out front listed today’s specials—Hazelnut Latte and Maple Scones—and beneath it, a slightly crooked note proclaimed, Free Wi-Fi! But only if you smile first.

The streets were alive with the quiet bustle of small-town life. Across the street, a group of kids with backpacks laughed as they trudged through the snow, probably heading back to school after lunch break.

I slowed down, taking it all in. Buttercup Lake made me feel like I no longer had to chase after something that didn’t exist. It was okay to be happy and content, and this town provided that comfort I grew up with.

Kind of like Evie.

I pulled into a parking spot near the coffee shop and turned off the engine. I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding.

This was it.

This was my chance to tell Evie about the Red Barn Cider space, to see her reaction, and to share this piece of my dream with someone who made it feel just a little more important.

And as I grabbed my keys and stepped out into the crisp air, I couldn’t help but smile. Whatever happened next, I wasready. Buttercup Lake, Red Barn Cider, Evie—it all felt like it was finally starting to fall into place.

Buttercup Java was like stepping into the heart of Buttercup Lake itself. The soft buzz of conversation and the smell of fresh coffee made it impossible not to feel at home. I ordered two lattes and waited for Abby to call my order. As I spun around and scouted the room, I picked a table near the window.

But all that cozy charm faded into the background when I spotted Evie.

Early.

I should have known she would have gotten here earlier than me.

Chuckling, I shook my head and held both cups of java as I made my way over.

As I watched her glance outside and tuck some hair behind her ear, the rest of the coffee shop seemed to fade away when her eyes met mine.

“Liam!” Her voice rang out.

There wasn’t a thing I didn’t love…

Uh, oh. Strong word.

About this woman.

Evie stood, the planner she’d been writing in forgotten on the table, as she came toward me with a smile that hit me square in the chest.

But before I had time to react, Evie threw her arms around me in a giant hug.

As I tried to balance myself, my arms flailed to the side to save the coffee.

“You’re all better,” she hummed. “I have felt so guilty. Hayden did, too.”

It was the best greeting I’d ever had, but she wasn’t done.

Her arms tightened around me a second time as I put one of the coffee cups down, trying to return the hug without spilling anything.

“Good to see you,” I said, my voice rougher than intended.

She pulled back slightly, still grinning, and that’s when it happened.

Evie stood on her toes to kiss my cheek—or at least, that’s where I assumed she was aiming.

But as I turned my head slightly to adjust my grip on the coffee, her lips brushed mine instead.

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