Page 32 of Love in Overtime

“That’s awesome,” I gush.

I nudge Cooper with my elbow.

“Thanks for supporting our team,” he says awkwardly. In his defense, he’s been socializing for hours.

“You’re most welcome. Now make sure you get a good spot for the lantern release,” she tells us. “It’s the big finale of the festival.”

Oh, I almost forgot about the paper lanterns. They really did think of everything when they put this event together.

“Thanks for the suggestion.”

Ms. Hale wanders off leaving Cooper and me alone again.

“It sounds like we should skip the corn maze and find aseat,” Cooper suggests. “I still haven’t tried the caramel popcorn, or the pumpkin scones.”

“The popcorn is amazing,” I gush. “I haven’t had the apple cider yet.”

“How about we find a seat and I’ll get us some snacks.” He pauses. “Unless you have your heart set on getting lost in the maze.”

I smile. “I like your idea better.”

We find an open bench under some trees. It’s a little off to the side, but we should still have a decent view of the lanterns.

Different thoughts are swirling through my mind while I wait for Cooper to return with the snacks. The last time we were alone under the evening sky, the attraction was almost too intense. Maybe I should take my friend’s advice and talk to him. It might be awkward, but it needs to happen.

I spot Cooper a few minutes later, and he’s carrying a tray of goodies.

“Did you get one of everything?” I ask.

“Basically. I couldn’t decide.”

We’re both quiet while we eat. Meanwhile the sky has turned vibrant purple, orange, and gold hues as the sun begins to set. Maple Falls is really showing off with its sunsets.

“So you’re probably ready for the games to start,” I say after a few seconds.

“Definitely.”

“And then get back to your life in Tennessee,” I add.

He nods. “That will be nice.”

I sigh. Cooper is back to his short and sweet answers.

The breeze picks up giving me a chill. Just as I run my hands over my arms, I feel Cooper slide toward me. “Are you cold?”

My pulse picks up now that Cooper is so close. “A little.”

Without saying a word, he stretches his arm on the bench behind me and runs his hand over my arm to warm me. I don’t resist as I move closer to him, the heat from his body already warming me. Neither of us are looking at the other while we get used to our proximity.

“Better?” he asks in my ear. His warm breath tickles my neck.

“A lot better.”

Why does this feel so natural? Cooper Montgomery is grumpy, difficult, and my client. Us being this close could get messy. But in this moment, I don’t care. I lean my head against his shoulder, and he rests his chin on my head. At least everyone in the town is preoccupied with sending their paper lanterns into the sky.

When I shift my face to look at Cooper, his lips are inches from mine. Before I have a chance to overthink this moment, he slowly lifts my chin with his finger and brushes his lips against mine. It doesn’t take long for us to get into a rhythm while everyone else enjoys the sky full of lanterns. This is happening. Cooper Montgomery is kissing me, and I’m kissing him back.

CHAPTER 9

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