“Seriously,” Laurel said. “Best artist in town deserves a permanent spot.”
She pointed to the wall across from them, where she’d already pinned a small sign that readLocal Readers & Creatives Welcome Here.
As Claire wandered to the wall, Laurel watched Theo meet Bennett’s gaze. There was something there, mutualunderstanding. Maybe not quite peace, but it looked a lot like a beginning.
And for the first time in a long time, Laurel felt like every piece had finally landed right where it was supposed to.
“You settling in?” he asked quietly.
Theo gave a small nod. “Getting there. The place by the park is older, but it’s solid. Claire likes it. That’s what matters.”
Bennett nodded once. “Harland’s not a bad place for a fresh start.”
A beat passed, comfortable now, not strained.
“Appreciate you being part of it,” Theo said, glancing toward Laurel. “Both of you.”
Her heart softened as she watched the two men. So much pain behind them, so much possibility ahead. She gave him a small nod in return.
Before anyone could say more, the front door swung open again with a gust of humid air and the unmistakable sound of Rylee’s voice carrying ahead of her.
“I told you we’d be late if you insisted on stopping for bear claws,” Rylee announced, a brown paper bag in one hand, striding in like she owned the place. “Loni had already sent a bunch of pastries here as a soft opening celebration gift from Champion Bakery.”
Behind her came her brothers, Tyler, Josh, and Gabe, followed shortly by Mac, and Carter.
Josh grinned as he stepped inside. “This place is looking better every time I see it.”
Laurel smiled, already reaching for extra mugs. The man hadn’t been in Harland long and had already landed the DA Investigator position, because apparently, the Brysons didn’t know how to do anything halfway. “Thanks.”
“It smells like cinnamon and smugness,” Rylee said, sniffing the air. “Which is fitting, because Laurel pulled off something big.”
She gave a mock curtsy behind the counter. “And here I thought I was just bribing y’all with coffee and baked goods.”
Mac chuckled. “Whatever works. Building looks good.”
Tyler added, “Security upgrades passed inspection this morning, by the way. You’re completely and officially covered now.”
Shecompletely and officiallysighed in relief.
Carter lifted the mug she just set in from of him. “To the queen of coffee and novels. And let’s not forget, facts. Why don’t you lay one on us?”
Laurel laughed. “Okay. Did you know the smell of old books is actually caused by the breakdown of chemical compounds in the paper and ink?”
Carter grinned. “So basically, nerdy decay?”
She winked. “Exactly. Which means this place is going to smell better with age—unlike most of you.”
As laughter rippled through the shop, Gabe leaned closer to Mac. “We got word from the feds this morning. Duke’s officially under investigation. Financial misconduct, conspiracy to commit fraud, and obstruction tied to Hess’ activity.”
Mac gave a slow nod. “About time.”
“He’ll have his day,” Gabe said. “But it won’t be a good one.”
Laurel met Bennett’s gaze, and he gave her a slow, reassuring smile.
Her breath caught for half a second, just enough to remind her how close they’d come to losing all this. Words weren’t necessary. His adoration was enough, and she let the accompanying warmth settle deep in her chest.
Then Annie waved her over with a little lift of her chin, where she and Rylee stood near the rear counter, matching conspiratorial grins on their faces.
