Page 19 of Grateful Hearts

“Hey, are you okay over there?” Zach asked, keeping his tone light but concerned. “You’ve been quiet since we left the hotel.”

Chantel blinked, snapping out of her reverie. She turned to look at him, a faint smile on her lips, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Yeah, sorry. I’m just thinking.”

Zach glanced back at the road, giving her a moment. “Want to talk about it?” he offered, his voice soft. “Sometimes it helps to get things off your chest.”

She sighed, playing with the hem of her sweater. “I was just thinking about what I’m going to do after the holiday. You know, with everything that’s happened, I just need to figure out what’s next for me.” She paused, her fingers stilling. “It’s just a lot to process.”

Zach nodded, understanding the weight of her words. “That’s understandable. A lot has changed for you in a short time.” He hesitated for a moment, then added, “Do you have any ideas about where you might want to go? Or are you thinking about staying in Boston?”

Chantel shrugged as she seemed to think about his question. “I’m not sure. Boston has been home for a long time, but after everything that happened, I don’t know if I want to stay there. Maybe it’s time for a fresh start, somewhere new.” She glanced at him, a hint of uncertainty in her eyes. “But starting over is scary, you know?”

Zach kept his eyes on the road but reached over to give her hand a reassuring squeeze. “I have no doubt you’ll find something great, whether it’s in Boston or somewhere else. Any restaurant would be lucky to have you.”

She smiled a genuine one this time. “Thanks. That means a lot.” She squeezed his hand back, then sighed. “It’s just hard to see a clear path right now. Everything’s so up in the air.”

Zach nodded, understanding the uncertainty she was feeling.

“It’s okay to feel lost. You’ve been through a lot. But you’re strong, and I know you’ll find your way.” He glanced at her, his eyes warm. “And in the meantime, you’re welcome to stay with my family for as long as you need. I know my mom would love that.”

Chantel laughed softly. “You’re sweet, but I don’t want to impose. I’m sure I’ll figure something out.”

Zach smiled, his grip on her hand tightening briefly. “You’re not imposing. We’re happy to have you. And who knows, maybe this holiday will help you decide your next steps.”

She nodded, a small smile on her lips. “Maybe.”

As they continued the drive, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, but Zach couldn’t help but think about how much he admired Chantel’s strength and resilience.

He hoped that this Thanksgiving would bring her some much-needed peace and clarity.

He stole another glance at her, and she smiled, giving him a soft, almost shy smile.

Zach felt a warmth spread through him as they continued down the road. He gripped the wheel a little tighter. It was ridiculous, really. He’d only known her for a day, but he already felt something he couldn’t quite name. Something he wasn’t sure he wanted to name.

???

“Here we are,” Zach stated as he turned left on the main road into a driveway.

Chantel sat up straighter, and her breath hitched as they drove up the long driveway flanked by trees that were evenly spaced apart on each side. The glow of warm, white lights appeared in the distance, illuminating a sprawling house that seemed to belong in a Christmas card.

When they reached the circular part of the driveway, Chantel couldn’t help but stare.

The white house with stone accents was enormous, with a wide wraparound porch adorned with fresh evergreen garlands twinkling under strings of soft lights. Live wreaths hung from each window, and a pair of rocking chairs and a swing decorated the porch, their cushions patterned with cheerful plaid. Though it was only the week of Thanksgiving, the house looked like it was preparing to welcome Santa himself.

“Wow,” Chantel murmured, her eyes drinking in every detail. “It’s beautiful.”

Zach grinned, cutting the engine. “Mom doesn’t mess around with decorations. She always decorates the outside first. She’ll start decorating the inside on Friday.”

Chantel smiled, but a flutter of nerves tightened her stomach as she looked toward the glowing windows. “Zach, are you sure this is okay?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, I’m a complete stranger walking into your family’s house to spend Thanksgiving.”

Zach turned to her, his expression softening. “Hey, it’s fine. Don’t get yourself worked up. They’re going to love you. Besides, you’ve already met my parents at your restaurant, remember?”

“Meeting them for five minutes over dessert is different than walking into their home and sharing their family holiday,” she said, fiddling with the zipper on her jacket.

Zach chuckled, his teasing grin returning. “Look, my family trusts my instincts. And my instincts tell me you’re not a serial killer.”

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