I shuffle closer to the counter, clutching my notebook like it might save me from exploding on the spot.
“I just... wanted to get some details, maybe talk about rent, responsibilities…” I trail off, glancing at Carter, who gives me a slight nod like he’s telling me to keep going.
Linda smiles kindly. “I’m not in a rush. I want the right person to take over this place. Someone who loves books as much as I do.”
“I love books,” I blurt out, cheeks heating. “I want it to be a romance-only bookstore. I have all these ideas for events, book clubs, signings?—”
Carter chuckles low behind me, and Linda laughs too, her face crinkling with amusement.
“I can tell, sweetheart,” she says fondly. Then her expression sobers, just a little. “As for the lease…” She leans her elbows on the counter, considering me carefully. “I’m asking three thousand a month.”
It feels like my stomach falls into a pit. Three thousand. I feel Carter stiffen slightly beside me, like he’s ready to say something, but I shake my head subtly.
“Three thousand?” I repeat, trying—and failing—to keep my voice steady.
Linda’s expression softens, reading the devastation on my face. “I know it’s a lot for a small town, but it’s the best location.”
I nod numbly, scribbling the number down in my notebook even though it might as well be a death sentence. “Thank you for your time,” I manage, forcing a brittle smile.
“Of course, sweetheart. If you ever want to talk or need advice, you come find me.” Linda says warmly.
I thank her again, turning on my heel before the lump in my throat explodes into full-blown tears. The little bell above the door jingles violently as I push it open, stumbling outside. I suck in a shaky breath, blinking up at the clear sky.
Carter’s behind me instantly, his boots thudding on the sidewalk. “Hey,” he says. “Look at me.”
I keep my head down, staring at the cracked sidewalk.
“Catalina,” he says again, and this time his hand is on my chin, lifting my face to his. His blue eyes cut straight through me. “You think I’m gonna let you give up this easy?”
Tears burn the backs of my eyes, but I blink them away. “I can’t afford that,” I whisper, voice cracking. “I’m stupid for even thinking I could.”
His thumb brushes along my jawline, rough and tender at the same time. “You’re not stupid,” he says fiercely. “You’re brave, stubborn as hell, and smart enough to make it happen.”
I let out a choked laugh, wiping my nose.
He leans down, kissing my forehead, lingering longer than he should. “Get in the truck, baby. We’ll figure it out.”
I let him guide me back to the truck. The second I slide into the seat, his hand finds my thigh again, squeezing gently.
As we drive off, his thumb strokes slow circles against my jeans, and for the first time in the last twenty minutes, I let myself believe that maybe... just maybe... I can still find a way to make my dream come true.
Especially with Carter Hayes believing in me.
carter
. . .
Three Days Later
Vartan
Is my daughter learning responsibility like I asked.
Carter
She’s doing the best she can.
Vartan
