Page 29 of The Friendly Fall

“So what brought you to West Falls?” she asks.

“Well, it’s kind of a long story,” I start, unsure of how much to share. Although, something about Vanessa’s warm smile and genuine interest puts me at ease. “But long story short, about six weeksago, I got laid off from my jobandbroken up with by my boyfriend of eight years … on the same day.”

“No! On the same day?!Ouch. That must’ve beenrough,” Vanessa sympathizes.

“It really was. It felt like my entire life fell apart in a matter of hours,” I explain, taking a sip of water before continuing. “So, after wallowing in self-pity for a few weeks, I decided to take my Granny up on her offer to come stay with her in West Falls. I figured a change of scenery and some extra time to figure out what I’m gonna do next would do me some good. Plus, Granny has arthritis, and could really use some help around the house, so it was a win-win for the both of us.”

“Wow, that’s quite the rollercoaster of events. And honestly, if I were in your shoes, I probably would’ve done the exact same thing. Heck, I probably would’ve keyed my ex’s car first though.” She smirks.

“I definitely thought about it,” I admit with a grin. “But then I remembered he’s a lawyer and I didn’t want to end up in jail.”

Vanessa bursts into laughter, the sound echoing through the cozy pizza place. “Yeah, probably a good call,” she agrees, wiping tears from her eyes. “Well, I, for one, am glad you ended up here. It’s a small town, but it’s filled with good people.”

“I’m starting to see that,” I reply with a smile, feeling grateful for Vanessa’s kindness and understanding.

Our conversation continues to flow effortlessly as our pizza arrives. And to my surprise, it’s just as good as Chicago pizza.

Vanessa shares more about her life in West Falls, and I find myself opening up about my own past, something I hadn’t expected to do so soon after moving here. As we delve into deeper topics, I realize how rare it is to connect with someone on such a level. Vanessa’s easygoing nature and genuine interest make me feel at ease.

For the first time since arriving in West Falls, I don’t feel like an outsider.

Chapter Eleven

Nick

“These are incredible,” Mom comments, still scrolling through the pictures that Eliza posted from the other night. “She really has talent.”

“Yeah, she does,” I say with a smile as I sweep the broom across the floor. “I really hope this photography business works out for her.”

“Me, too.” Mom’s still fixated on the pictures. “I hope she stays around. Do you think she’d mind if I printed some of these?” She finally looks up at me.

“I don’t know.” I shrug. “Maybejust ask her.”

“Why don’t you ask her for me? You work on the ramp practically every evening, so you’ll probably see her tonight,” Mom points out.

“Maybe. But sometimes she’s not there.”

Mom tilts her head. “Where does she go?”

I let out a sharp breath. “Mom, I havenoidea what she does. I’m not her keeper.”

“Well, considering how long that ramp is taking you to build, I’m guessing you’ve been spending more time talking to Eliza than working,” Mom teases, a mischievous glint in her eye. “You like her, don’t you?”

I want to roll my eyes at her, but don’t. “It doesn’t matter.”

“She’d be crazy not to like you back. You’re a catch, hon. Why don’t you ask her to go with you to the festival this weekend?”

“I…” My voice trails off as I’m about to argue with her, but I stop myself.

Thatisa good idea.

I don’t know if Eliza will agree, but it’s worth a shot. “I think I might.”

“Good!” Mom smiles. “It’ll be a great chance for her to meet people, too. I bet she’d really enjoy it. I’ll see if Marilyn would like to go with me, so Eliza doesn’t feel like she has to take her grandma.”

I narrow my eyes at her. “Are you two scheming?”

Her expression is unreadable. “Me?” She waves me off. “No way.”

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