“I think the connection happened long before that,” Aurora told them. “I think something special sparked between us the moment I shoved the rain-soaked hood of my poncho back, and our eyes met. Not that I’m saying he felt the same way. That’s just how I felt. It’s just taken me a while to acknowledge it for what it is.”
“That meet-cute is right up there with Mom and Dad’s,” Jade decided. “So, what are you going to do about it?”
“It’s not a conversation I want to have with Gage over the phone,” Aurora replied. “I have that art show this coming Saturday at Emmy’s studio. If I can get a flight out on Sunday, I’m going to make my way back to Conley Island to tell Gage in person how I really feel.”
“Oh, honey,” her mom said, “I’m so happy you found someone who makes your heart smile.”
“He does, Mom,” Aurora replied wistfully. “More than I ever thought possible.”
“As your mother, I should probably be asking about your career,” her mother said with a tender smile. “But I know firsthand that you can have love and still follow your career dreams.”
Aurora returned her smile. “You’ve always been my role model. Both as a mother and as a career professional.” Her mother had taken some time off to raise her daughters, and when the time was right, she had gone back to work.
Her mother leaned in to hug her. “Love you, sweetie.” Then she straightened and looked at Jade. “Both of you.”
“Love you back,” Aurora said.
“Ditto,” Jade chimed in.
It was possible to have it all, Aurora thought excitedly. But you have to be willing to take a risk to make your dreams come true. A future with Gage was so worth the risk.
“Welcome back,” Emmy greeted with a hug when Aurora arrived at her art studio.
“Sorry I’m late,” Aurora said. “I had an unexpected conference call with my editor that ran over.”
“The magazine isn’t having second thoughts on the new arrangement they agreed to, are they?” her best friend asked with a worried frown.
Aurora smiled. “Not at all. Eugene wanted to tell me their online numbers for my article on Gage’s family retreat were beyond their expectations and that they’d like me to do a follow-up article about river fishing on Conley Island in the spring.”
“Oh, Aurora,” her friend exclaimed. “How perfect!”
Aurora nodded. “It was definitely an assignment I couldn’t refuse.” She glanced around. “Great turnout.”
“Beyond expectations,” Emmy replied. “Just like your article.”
Aurora smiled, catching sight of herInto the Alaskan Wildsprints displayed prominently on one of two focal walls across the room. She crossed over to it, her gaze fixed on the largest framed picture in the center, and her heart tugged. She would never think about the Northern Lights again without Gage being included. Oh, how she missed that charming grin of his. Aurora sighed.
“You didn’t have to be here today,” Emmy said as she joined her at the wall. “I would have understood if your heart urged you to leave a day sooner to see him.”
Aurora glanced over at her dear, sweet, always-supportive friend. “I want to be here.”
“But not as much as you want to be somewhere else,” Emmy replied with a knowing smile.
Aurora’s mouth curled upward as she shook her head, answering honestly, “No, not as much.” Emmy wouldn’t take offense. She knew how Aurora felt about Gage and about her plans to fly out the next morning to Juneau. There, she intended to take a boat she’d hired to Conley Island to pay Gage and his family a surprise visit.
“I’m glad you came in anyway,” Emmy said. “I know you have packing to do.”
“Of course I’m going to be here,” Aurora said, laughing softly. “I might be in love with Gage, but you will always be my best friend. I’m honored to be a part of your art show.”
“Well, that’s convenient,” a deep voice said from behind, “because Gage is in love with you.”
Aurora spun to face him with a gasp. “Gage?”
Emmy’s smile widened. “If you two will excuse me, I have guests to see to.” Her gaze went to Gage. “Took you long enough.”
Gage chuckled, his focus solely on Aurora. “Too long.”
Stepping forward, Emmy gave Aurora a hug, whispering in her ear, “Dreams do come true.” Then she released her and walked away humming a happy tune.
