Page 39 of Evan

The farm suddenly feels confining, the walls of the kitchen closing in on me. I've spent so long trying to convince myself that I could be happy here, that I could find fulfillment in this life. But what if I've just been lying to myself?

Morgan's offer floats back into my mind, no longer feeling like a temptation, but like a lifeline. A chance to break free, to see the world, to find out who I really am outside of this town and this farm.

Maybe I should take the job. Maybe this is the wake-up call I needed to realize that my dreams of travel and adventure aren't just youthful fantasies, but a core part of who I am.

As I drain the last of my coffee, a sense of resolve settles over me. I've spent too long trying to fit myself into a life that might not be right for me. It's time to take a chance, to make a decision.

I reach for my phone, my finger hovering over Morgan's number. The first rays of sunlight stream through the window, illuminating the kitchen in a soft glow. It feels like a sign, a new day dawning, full of possibilities.

With a deep breath, I press the call button. As the phone rings, I feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. Whatever happens next, I know one thing for certain: nothing will ever be the same again.

Twenty

BETTY

Benton Falls shimmers around me as I stand just outside Sweet Haven Bakery & Café. The scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls and brewing coffee fills my senses, a stark contrast to the ethereal fragrances of the celestial realm I've just left. Through the frosted windows, I can see the warm glow of fairy lights and the sparkle of tinsel garlands. The town square is alive with last-minute Christmas shoppers, their laughter and excited chatter creating a festive atmosphere.

As I step inside the bakery, the warmth envelops me like a hug. Maggie Whitfield, the owner, is bustling behind the counter, her cheeks flushed with exertion and holiday cheer. The aroma of baked goods is even stronger inside, a heady mix of sugar, spice, and comfort that seems to embody the very essence of Christmas.

I spot Evan sitting at a corner table, his fingers drumming nervously on the worn wood surface. His blue eyes are fixed on the door, a mix of anticipation and uncertainty clear on his face. My heart aches for him, knowing the internal struggle he's facing.

Taking a deep breath, I make my way to the counter, ordering a cup of peppermint hot chocolate and one of Maggie's famous apple turnovers. As I wait for my order, I keep one eye on Evan, watching as Morgan Caldwell breezes through the door.

Morgan's entrance causes a stir in the bakery. She's dressed impeccably in a tailored red coat, her dark hair styled in perfect waves. She exudes confidence and success, and I can see Evan straighten in his chair as she approaches.

"Evan," Morgan greets him, her voice carrying across the bakery. "Merry Christmas Eve."

"Merry Christmas Eve, Morgan," Evan replies, standing to greet her. "I'm glad you could meet me."

I watch as Morgan reaches into her designer handbag, pulling out a business card. "I'm afraid I can't stay long," she says, her tone brisk but not unkind. "But I wanted to give you this. It's my boss's card. He's very interested in having you on the show."

Evan takes the card, looking slightly bewildered. "Oh, I thought we were going to discuss the details..."

Morgan shakes her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "There's nothing to discuss, Evan. Your dreams are waiting for you. All you have to do is reach out and grab them."

With that, she turns on her heel and walks out, leaving Evan standing there, the business card clutched in his hand and a look of confusion on his face.

This is my moment, I realize. The pivotal point where I can help Evan see the truth of his heart. But how?

I close my eyes, reaching out with my angelic senses as Evan takes his seat. I can feel the turmoil of emotions swirling within Evan—excitement, fear, longing, and underneath it all, a deep, aching love for Molly and Chad.

Taking a deep breath, I pick up my hot chocolate and turnover and make my way to Evan's table.

"Mind if I join you?" I ask, keeping my voice light and friendly.

Evan looks up, seeming almost relieved to see a familiar face. "Betty, hi. Of course, please sit."

As I settle into the chair across from him, I can see the business card still clutched in his hand. "That seemed like an interesting encounter," I say, nodding towards the door Morgan just exited through.

Evan sighs, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, it was... not what I expected. I thought we were going to talk about the job offer, but she just gave me this card and left."

I take a sip of my hot chocolate, savoring the minty sweetness as I consider my next words carefully. "Maybe it's not about the job offer itself," I suggest gently. "Maybe it's about what the offer represents."

Evan looks at me quizzically. "How do you know about…wait, what do you mean?"

I set down my mug, meeting his gaze. "Well, think about it. What does that card really mean to you? Is it just a job, or is it something more?"

I can see the wheels turning in Evan's mind as he considers my question. "I guess... it represents adventure. The chance to see the world, to break free from the responsibilities here.”

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