Page 70 of Loving Violet
I laugh, shaking my head. “Well…we hiked along the ridges, saw some beautiful scenery, and then he surprised me with this hidden waterfall. Honestly, it was magical.”
Josy leans in closer, her eyes widening. “Are you kidding me? That’s so romantic!”
I nod, smiling. “And you won’t believe this, he prepared a super cute picnic! Then we swam in the creek and explored a hidden cave behind the waterfall. It was like something out of a fairytale.”
Josy’s eyes gleam with mischief. “Please tell me you guys did it behind the waterfall.”
“Shhh, woman. Lower your voice,” I hiss, glancing around to make sure no one is listening.
“Stop deflecting and answer me,” Josy whispers.
“Yes,” I admit, my cheeks burning, “we had sex in the cave behind the waterfall, and before that at my apartment.”
“Wow. Girl. I’m so proud of you,” Josy says, a big grin spreading across her face that makes me blush harder.
“You look so happy, and I love it. Remind me to thank Austin. He has done wonders for you.”
“Tell me about it. I am so sore. Every time I move is a reminder of what went down the last two days.”
Josy laughs and leans in even closer. “You know what else happened?”
“What?”
“When Taylor brought Adrian back last night, Austin was still there, and they met. But the worst part was after Austin left.” I proceed to explain what Taylor said to me, recalling the awkward confrontation.
“I can’t believe the nerve of that man. I’m glad you are not with him anymore. He was sucking the life out of you.”
“Yeah, I guess that’s true,” I say.
As we chat, I take pictures for our social media accounts and chat with the regulars.
Mrs. Henrietta and Mrs. Mirtha make their way up to the counter, their faces beaming with joy.What are they smiling about?
“Congratulations, dear!” Mrs. Henrietta says, patting my hand.
“We knew it would happen! We’re so happy for you both,” Mrs. Mirtha adds, her eyes twinkling.
I can’t help but blush at all the attention. “Oh, thank you so much. I, um, appreciate it.”
Does the entire town know at this point?
“I told this one that someday that boy would find the love of his life,” Mrs. Mirtha says, pointing at Mrs. Henrietta. “And when he came and asked about you, I knew you were meant to be!”
“You crone, I was the one who said that. Did you forget?”
“I didn’t forget anything. You are the one getting senile, granny.”
“Senile, my ass. You have dementia, you demented old bag. Don’t mind this one. I know what I said.”
I laugh at their banter. They are so cute when they argue with each other. Their playful squabbles always brighten my day. That’s going to be Josy and me one day.
Just then, the door chimes, and Austin walks in. He makes a beeline for me, ignoring the curious glances from the patrons. Without a word, he comes around the counter and pulls me into a passionate kiss. The room erupts into applause and cheers.
“Congratulations!” someone shouts.
When Austin finally pulls away, I look up at him, my heart pounding. “What was that about?”
I can feel my cheeks burning with embarrassment and happiness.
