Page 323 of Small Town Firsts

For the first time, in a really long time, hope is beating in tandem to the organ in my chest, pumping my veins full of possibility.

My tummy flutters as Stella whistles when I step out of my room. “So?”

"It's gonna be great, Emmy," Stella says right as a knock sounds through our suite.

“Oh! I still need to pack.”

My best friend grins. “I took care of it.”

And sure enough, my bag’s sitting on the coffee table in front of the couch.

Sneaky girl.

“Thanks. I think.”

Stella flings herself at me, wrapping me in a hug. "Have so much fun! And remember, I'm only one call away."

"You're the best," I whisper as I head for the door, grabbing my overnight bag and phone along the way.

My heart hopscotches in my chest as I swing the door open. My skin tingles at the mere sight of him. But unlike me, Sterling is the picture of composure, leaned against the doorjamb with his muscled arms crossed over his chest.

"Emmalyn." His eyes light up at the sight of me. "You look gorgeous."

My cheeks burn under his scrutiny. "Thanks."

"You ready?" He reaches for my bag, tugging it from my grasp.

I nod.

"Then let's go."

"Where?" I ask, hoping he'll give in and tell me.

"You'll see.”

CHAPTER 33

STERLING

Outwardly,I'm calm and collected; but inside, I'm second-guessing the hell out of the plans I made for us.

For the first ten minutes of the drive, Emmalyn asks questions, trying to get me to slip up and spill the details of our date. But, much to her dismay, my lips are sealed.

Eventually, the mountain view steals her attention as we drive down the winding road toward the valley. "It's just so...beautiful."

"It is," I agree, though in my mind, I'm referring to both her and the view.

Eventually, our initial destination comes into view.

"Are we here?" Emmy asks, a dubious look on her face as she takes in our surroundings.

"What? A little grocery shopping doesn't sound like a good date?"

"Um."

"I'm kidding, baby."

"Oh, good." She laughs, and I kill the engine.

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