“Oh my God. This is incredible.”
Jack laughs. “Told you.”
We thank Mrs. Abernathy and continue down the street to the diner.
Carol, the owner, greets us with a knowing smile.
“Well, if it isn’t the town’s new favorite couple.”
Jack groans. “Carol—”
She winks at me.
“I like you already, sweetheart.” She slides a plate of fries toward me. “On the house.”
I laugh. “Is this standard? Free food just for being with Jack?”
Carol grins. “Oh, honey, this town has been waiting for one of these Connor boys to settle down. You’re practically a miracle worker.”
Jack rolls his eyes, but I catch the hint of a smile on his lips.
I pop a fry into my mouth. Something settles deep inside me.
Belonging.
This town, these people, they’re embracing me without question. Makes me feel like I don’t have to prove myself or earn my place.
By the time we return to the garage, the sun dips behind the hills and bathes everything in golden light.
I lean against the truck and watch Jack talk with Henry. Their easy laughter speaks volumes about their bond, about the roots Jack has here, about the life he’s built.
Henry notices me and grins.
“Growing fond of our little town yet?”
I smile. “Yeah. I think I am.”
Jack walks over and slides his arm around my waist.
“Told you you’d fit right in.”
I look up at him, my heart full to bursting. “Yeah. You did.”
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
BETH
I walk into the kitchen of Jack’s house—our house now. The thought still sneaks up on me. It doesn’t feel wrong. Just new.
And for the first time, new doesn’t scare me.
Jack leans back against the counter, coffee mug in hand, eyes tracking me with lazy affection. “You’re staring.”
He’s in blue jeans and a plain white shirt, and somehow, he’s never looked more irresistible.
I smirk. “Maybe I like what I see.”
He grins. “Yeah?”
