Page 20 of A Snowstorm & A Stronghorn

As she leads me away, chattering about Bram’s first attempts at woodworking, I catch Bram’s gaze. He looks mortified, but there’s warmth and good-natured resignation in his gaze that makes my heart skip.

Thalinda guides me to a beautiful rocking chair, encouraging me to sit. As I do, the chair adjusts itself, molding to my body for perfect comfort.

“Now,” she says, perching on a nearby stool that scurries over to her, “Tell me more about yourself, dear. What was your life like before coming to Evershift Haven?”

I take a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. “I grew up in a small town in Oregon. It was just my mom and me for most of my life. I studied business in college, thinking it was the practical choice, but I never felt truly passionate about it.”

Thalinda nods encouragingly. “And what did you do after college?”

“I... I put my career on hold.” A lump forming in my throat. “My mom got diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and it was aggressive. I spent the last few years taking care of her. After she passed, I felt lost. That’s when I decided to take this road trip, to try to find myself, I guess.”

She reaches out, patting my hand. “I’m so sorry, dear. Losing a parent is never easy, but I have a feeling you were meant to find your way here.”

Bram joins us, leaning against a workbench. “Mom’s right, Fiona. Evershift Haven has a way of calling to those who need it most.”

Thalinda beams at her son. “Indeed it does. Now, Fiona, have you given any thought to what you might like to do here in town?”

I shake my head. “Not really. Everything’s happened so fast. I haven’t had time to think about it.”

Her eyes sparkle with excitement. “We simply must introduce you to everyone. We’ll throw a welcome party!”

Bram groans. “Mom, I don’t think—”

“Nonsense, Bramwell,” she interrupts. “It’s perfect. We’ll invite the whole town. It’ll give Fiona a chance to meet everyone and learn about all the wonderful opportunities here.”

Before I can protest, she’s on her feet, pacing the workshop as she plans. “We’ll have it at the town square. Bella from ‘The Enchanted Espresso’ can provide refreshments. Oh, and we simply must have Heather from ‘Mystic Melodies’ perform – her siren songs are to die for. Literally, if you’re not careful.” She chuckles at that.

I glance at Bram, who shrugs helplessly. It’s clear that once Thalinda gets an idea in her head, there’s no stopping her.

“And of course,” Thalinda continues, “We’ll need to get you a proper outfit. Can’t have you meeting the town in those travel-worn clothes. We’ll visit Madam Threads at ‘The Whimsical Wardrobe.’ She’ll fix you right up.”

My head spins with all the plans and names. “That’s really not necessary—”

“Of course it is, dear,” she insists. “Consider it a proper Evershift Haven welcome. Let’s see... We’ll need decorations. Frost from ‘Frost’s Festive Finds’ can help with that. His enchanted icicles are simply magical. They never melt and change color to match the mood of the party.”

As Thalinda rattles off more plans, Bram moves to stand beside me. “I’m sorry about this,” he whispers. “Mom can be a bit overwhelming.”

I smile up at him. “It’s okay. It’s sweet that she wants to make me feel welcome.”

His expression softens. “That’s Mom for you. Once she decides you’re family, there’s no escaping her love.”

The word ‘family’ sends a flutter through my stomach. I’ve missed that sense of belonging.

Thalinda claps her hands, drawing our attention. “It’s settled then. The party will be tomorrow evening. Fiona, dear, I’ll come by in the morning to take you shopping. Bram, you’ll handle the invitations, won’t you?”

Bram nods, resigned. “Yes, Mom.”

“Excellent.” She beams and pulls me into another hug. “Oh, I’m so excited. You’re going to love it here, Fiona. I just know it.” As she releases me, her eyes twinkle mischievously. “Now, I’ll leave you two alone, but remember, Bramwell, your father and I raised you to be a gentleman.”

He snorts and grunts, looking like he wishes he could disappear. I’m torn between embarrassment and amusement myself. “Bram’s a perfect gentleman.” With a huge cock and ways of pleasing me I’ve never imagined.

Thalinda winks at me before sweeping out of the workshop, leaving a whirlwind of energy in her wake.

I turn to Bram, still processing everything that just happened. “Is she always like that?”

He chuckles while running a hand through his mane. “Pretty much, but trust me, having Thalinda Stonehorn on your side is a good thing. She’ll move mountains to help those she cares about.”

I nod, feeling warm and pleased. She’s a lot, but it’s clear her heart is huge, and she’s prepared to welcome me. That will make life easier if I decide to stay—and the thought of leaving fills me with dread.

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