Page 61 of Lavender and Honey

"Me too," I admitted quietly, meeting his gaze. "I'm glad you suggested it."

Finn reached out, his hand hovering near mine on the table. He didn't grab it, just let it rest there - an invitation if I wanted to take it. I looked at his hand, resting there so close to mine. It was a gesture of invitation, not demand - like everything about Finn. His patience and gentleness drew me in, made me feel safe in a way I hadn't in so long. Slowly, I slid my fingers toward his, until our fingertips just barely touched. Even that small contact sent a warmth racing up my arm.

"You know," Finn said softly, his voice like a gentle stream over smooth stones, "there's supposed to be a meteor shower Saturday night. If we're lucky, we might catch a few shooting stars."

"Really?" I couldn't hide the excitement in my voice. "I haven't seen a meteor shower since I was a teenager. Avery, my best friend, used to wake me up in the middle of the night sometimes when there was one happening.”

I laughed at the memories, “She would sneak into my room from the tree next to my bedroom window.”

“Then we have something special to look forward to this Saturday. I will also bring some snacks and hot cocoa.” Finn toldme, his tone soft and I nodded. We sat in silence until I had finished my food.

"I should probably let you get back to your inventory," Finn said after a moment, though he made no move to release my hand. "I know you have work to do."

I nodded reluctantly, glancing at the half-completed inventory sheets on the counter. "I do, but... thank you for stopping by. And for lunch."

"My pleasure," he replied, his thumb brushing lightly over my knuckles. "I like taking care of you, Lydia. All of us do."

There was a weight to his words that made my breath catch. It wasn't just a casual statement, then he gave me a smile before moving forward giving my cheek a small kiss. My cheeks warmed up before he gave me a cheeky grin and went to the door, unlocking it and giving me one last look before leaving me alone in my store, flustered.

Chapter Thirty-Eight

The week passed in a blur of paint-stained fingers and quiet contemplation. Each day brought new textures to my life - the soft brush of Elias's hand as he passed me a steaming mug of tea, the low rumble of Lucian's laughter echoing through the kitchen, Soren's playful winks across the dinner table, and Finn's steady presence as we planned our stargazing date.

By the time Saturday arrived, a mix of anticipation and nervousness fluttered in my stomach. I stood in front of my closet, fingers trailing over hangers as I debated what to wear. Something practical for stargazing, but also... nice. I finally settled on a soft, oversized sweater in a deep forest green and comfortable jeans. Practical, but still nice enough for a date.

Just as I finished getting ready, my phone chimed with a text from Finn:

"On my way. Hope you're ready for an adventure under the stars."

I smiled, a warm feeling spreading through my chest. Taking one last look in the mirror, I grabbed a light jacket and headed downstairs to wait. The rumble of an engine broke through the stillness of the evening, pulling me from my reverie. I stepped out onto the porch just as Finn's pickup truck rolled to a stop at the curb. The sight of him, silhouetted against the soft glow of the dashboard lights, sent a flutter of excitement through me.

"Hey," he greeted with his characteristic gentle smile as he hopped out of the truck. His movements were unhurried, each step deliberate and sure as he made his way over to me. "You look great."

"Thanks," I murmured, tucking a stray hair behind my ear. The green sweater was a splash of color in my usually subdued wardrobe, a small rebellion against my own inclinations.

"Ready for an adventure?" Finn asked, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He held his hand out to me, and I placed mine in his, letting him guide me toward the passenger side of the truck. His fingers were warm and reassuring against mine, a silent promise of safety.

We drove out of town, leaving behind the familiar sights and sounds of Haven's Rest. The further we went, the deeper the night became. Finally, Finn turned off onto a dirt path that led into a clearing. My breath caught at the sight before us—a cozy firepit, a plush blanket spread on the ground, and a picnic basket that promised delightful treats.

"Wow," I whispered, taking it all in. Finn had thought of everything. This wasn't just stargazing; it was like stepping into a dream tailored just for me.

"It's nothing much," Finn said, though his eyes held a hint of pride. "Just wanted to make our first date memorable."

"Nothing much?" I echoed with a grin. "Finn, this is amazing. Thank you." He shrugged modestly, setting up the firepit with practiced ease. Within moments, the crackling flames castdancing shadows around us, and warmth seeped into the air. He then opened the picnic basket, revealing an assortment of Elias's artisanal foods—crusty bread, fragrant preserves, and more.

"Thought we could enjoy some of Elias's specialties under the stars," Finn said, handing me a jar of strawberry preserve that glinted ruby-red in the firelight.

"Perfect," I agreed, my heart swelling with a sense of belonging that I hadn't felt in a long time. With the stars above us, the fire beside us, and the simple yet delicious food, the evening unfurled into something magical.

Finn led me to a spot he and the others had prepared—a small firepit casting a gentle glow and a blanket spread out with care. A basket sat nearby, undoubtedly filled with Elias's artisanal delights.

"Lucian, Soren, and Elias set this up while I came to pick you up," Finn confessed with a hint of pride, gesturing at the thoughtful arrangement.

I grinned, warmth flooding my chest. "They really did all this?" I asked, touched by their effort.

"Every detail." He nodded.

"Thank you," I said, my gratitude directed not only at Finn but also at the other three who were becoming so engrained in my life.

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