Page 68 of Falling for Finn

DAY 15

I’ve been anticipatingthe festival all week and am so excited it’s here. Though each passing day means I’m closer to leaving, and my time here is quickly coming to an end. Even if Finn were to ask me to stay, I’d have to go back and figure out my apartment situation. The more I try not to think about it, the more it will slap me in the face when I get home.

For the past few days, I’ve been going on more Maplewood Falls tours with Finn and working on the painting. I drew my original sketch onto the canvas to get the foundation of the buildings’ layout beforehand. The sidewalk and road are finished, and I’ll fill in the festivities once I see them. Afterward, I’ll add in small details for each local business.

Needless to say, I’m feeling the pressure to make it perfect. I have until Sunday to finish since I fly out on Tuesday.

“Levi’s on his way over, then we’ll go set up.”

Last night, Finn told me Levi volunteered to help set up the orchard’s caramel apple booth. It’s tradition, something they’ve hosted each year since the beginning. Willa asked Levi—whocould never tell that woman no—since Paisley and Poppy are working at the bakery until five.

“I think it’s sweet how Levi helps your family like that,” I say, brushing my hair. “I only get updates from my childhood friends on social media. We’re all so busy living different lives that it’s hard to keep up with everyone.”

“Yeah.” There’s sadness in his response.

I’m tempted to ask him what’s wrong, but I know we don’t have time for a deep conversation right now.

As I finish getting ready, Finn cleans the mess in the kitchen from the breakfast he made this morning. While he busies himself, I shoot my sister a quick text. After I told her about my extended stay, she asked if I’d made a decision about moving to Florida. I’m still undecided, and while I’d love to be closer to her, too much is going on in my head right now.

Oakley

We’re leaving for the festival soon! I’ll send pics later!

Tiernan

Awesome, can’t wait to see! Your painting is gonna turn out so good.

Oakley

I hope so! I don’t want to let them down.

Tiernan

You don’t ever have to worry about that. You’re so meticulous. I’m sure it will look like the real thing.

Oakley

Fingers crossed.

Tiernan

How’s everything else going? You and Finn still “pretending”?

Oakley

Until I leave, we are. It’s easier.

Tiernan

But?

Oakley

But what?

Tiernan

You’ve been hooking up. So that’s not really “pretending.”

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