Page 54 of Secret Love

Yep. lol

My mom and I drove through Silver Hills a couple years ago when we first moved to Boulder. It was a beautiful day, the middle of winter, but everyone was out and about. There was such a wholesome feeling about the town. Jupiter Lane was so charming with all the cute shops and restaurants. We stopped and ate at Starlight Cafe, and I couldn’t stop watching the way everyone interacted with each other. It felt like a community and I have always craved that.

Henley

You’re in the right place. Wholesome is exactly what I thought when I first came to Silver Hills too. I didn’t know I’d love the small-town life, but it’s been the perfect balance for me. I hope Silver Hills is everything you hope it to be.

It’s far surpassing everything I’d hoped for so far.

Henley

Excellent. Let me know what I can do to improve your experience.

You already are.

Hmm. No, I did not know that I twirl my hair when reading.

Henley

Your hair is really beautiful, Tru.

I press my lips together. I really like this man.

Thank you.

Henley

Thank you for answering my questions. And to answer yours…pretty amazing? No, I don’t think so.

I don’t believe you.

Henley

If it’s happened, I didn’t hear it until you said it.

You are smooth, Mr. Football Player.

Henley

You think so? I just say what’s on my mind.

Well, it translates as SMOOTH.

Henley

That’s a good thing, I hope? Uh…I dreamed of playing football as a kid, and my parents made that possible by sending me to the camps and all that when I was young. I’m fortunate they encouraged it. And I have an older brother who still lives in Minnesota, Jeremy. He’s a good guy, does well in finance. We’re close, but I don’t see him as often as I’d like. He and his family usually come to visit in the summer, and I take the girls there during any holiday I’m free…which can be challenging with games.

I always wanted a sibling. I’m glad you guys are close.

Henley

And dancing…funny story. One of our coaches made us take ballet classes for the coordination.

The level of regret I have for not witnessing that class is extreme.

Henley

I didn’t love it at first, but it actually accomplished what our coach was hoping it would.

---