Page 48 of Burned By the Broken Doctor

After snapping a few shots, we head back to the car and drive to the next location. I talk about the memories associated with each place, filling the car with stories and laughter. It feels good, sharing these moments with Liam. It feels right.

As we drive to our next destination, my stomach growls, reminding me that I haven’t eaten since early morning. “I’m starving,” I admit, glancing at Liam. “Can we stop somewhere for a bite?”

“Sure,” he mumbles, circling around and scanning the area. “How about that bagel shop over there?”

I follow his gaze to a small shop with a sign that reads ‘Solomon’s Corner.’ “Perfect.”

We pull up to the shop, and the smell of freshly baked bagels greets us as we walk in. An elderly man stands behind the counter, his face lighting up when he sees us.

“Well, if it isn’t Emma,” he exclaims, his eyes twinkling. “I’m so happy to see you.”

I rack my brain for his name, feeling a bit embarrassed. “Hi, uh?—”

“Solomon,” he supplies with a huge chuckle. “The father of Jay Solomon. Remember him?”

Recognition dawns, and I smile politely. “Oh, yes. We shared a seat in science class. How is Jay?”

Mr. Solomon’s grin widens. “He’s doing great, thanks for asking. You know, he used to talk about you all the time. Such a smart girl you were, always helping him with his homework. I always thought you two were dating.”

My eyes widen in surprise, and I open my mouth to correct him, but before I find my voice, Liam steps forward, his voice cold. “We’re in a bit of a hurry. Can we get our bagels and coffee to go, please?”

Mr. Solomon’s eyes flicker between us, noting Liam’s tone. “Of course, of course. Just a moment.” He hurries off to prepare our order.

I turn to Liam, noticing the frown etched on his face. “Are you jealous?” I ask, a teasing lilt in my voice.

He shoots me a look, his expression hard. “I don’t get jealous.”

I bite back a smile, watching as he strides over to the counter to grab our order. It’s amusing to see him so ruffled. As he walks back, balancing the bagels and coffee, I can’t help but chuckle.

“Thanks, Mr. Solomon,” I nod a few times, waving to the old man as we head out.

“Anytime, Emma! Come back soon,” he calls after us.

We reach the car, and Liam hands me my coffee before getting in. I take a sip, savoring the warmth. “You know, it’s nice to see you unnerved like this.” I can’t resist teasing him a bit more.

Liam grumbles something under his breath, and his jaw twitches. “Let’s just get on with the day.”

Guess that’s a touchy one. I say nothing else as we continue our search for the perfect venue, the atmosphere between us lightens. We visit a charming vineyard with rolling hills and a picturesque barn, a rustic lodge by the lake with stunning views, and a quaint chapel surrounded by ancient oaks. Each place has its own unique charm, and we take our time exploring and imagining the possibilities.

At the vineyard, I can’t help but twirl around in the open field, the sun warming my skin. “Can you picture it? June in a flowing dress, the guests seated here, the ceremony happening right there by the vines?”

Liam watches me, his eyes softening. “Yeah, I can. It’s perfect.”

I try to imagine the groom walking up to the bride right here, and instead of Damon’s face, it’s Liam in a black tuxedo and a bright smile that I picture instead. I immediately step back.

“Is anything wrong, Emma?”

Yeah. You’re seeping too deep into my mind, Liam Miller. I just smile and shake my head.

“Let’s take pictures and go to the next place.”

We take more pictures and make notes, then head to the lake lodge. The water glistens in the midday sun, and I imagine the peaceful sound of waves as a backdrop for the vows. “This place is serene. It has a calming energy.” I spread my hands, breathing in the fresh air.

Liam nods, snapping a few photos. “It’s definitely a contender.”

Finally, we visit the chapel. It’s small but filled with character, its wooden beams and stained-glass windows giving it a timeless feel. “It’s like stepping back in time,” I whisper, running my fingers over the weathered pews.

Liam stands beside me, taking it all in. “June and Damon would love this.”

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