Page 18 of Practically Perfect Together

As we make our way off the dance floor, I catch Mike watching us from across the terrace. He gives me a knowing thumbs-up, clearly misreading our exit. If only he knew. There's nothing to congratulate. Not yet. Maybe not ever.

But as Savannah's hand finds mine again to navigate through the crowd, fitting perfectly between my fingers, I can't help but hope.

ChapterSeven

Savannah

Istare at the signed contract on my tablet, the weight of success oddly hollow as I shut down the video call with Mr. Bennett. I’ve closed the deal on the largest corporate retreat I've booked this year.

Twenty thousand dollars in commission sitting in my professional account, waiting to be transferred.

I should be celebrating. Instead, I'm staring out the window of my rented cabin, watching the late afternoon sun cast golden light across the mountains, feeling strangely empty.

Before I can even process this unexpected reaction, my phone rings. Margaret Wells, my boss at McLoyd Event Strategy.

"Savannah! Tell me the good news," she says when I answer, not bothering with pleasantries.

"The contract is signed," I confirm, automatically shifting into professional mode. "Twenty-three executives, four days, full premium package."

"Fantastic work!" Margaret's voice practically vibrates with satisfaction. "Bennett Financial is exactly the kind of high-profile client we've been targeting. The executive team is extremely impressed."

"Thank you. Mountain Laurel Lodge really sold itself."

"Don't be modest. This is your victory." There's a pause that feels weighted with significance. "Actually, that's partly why I'm calling. The timing couldn't be better. Are you free for a video call tomorrow morning? Say nine o'clock? There are some exciting developments we'd like to discuss regarding your future with the company."

My heart skips. In corporate speak, "exciting developments" and "your future with the company" usually means one thing. Promotion.

"Of course," I reply, trying to sound appropriately eager while ignoring the unexpected knot forming in my stomach. "I'll make myself available."

"Excellent. Between us," Margaret lowers her voice conspiratorially, "the Denver expansion we've been planning has been fast-tracked. But that's all I'll say for now. Enjoy your victory today, Savannah. You've earned it."

After we hang up, I sit motionless, staring at my phone. Denver. The company has been talking about opening a Rocky Mountain regional office for over a year. A prestigious position that would mean more responsibility, higher-profile clients, a significant salary increase.

Everything I've been working toward.

So why does the prospect fill me with dread instead of excitement?

"Congratulations, Savannah," I murmur to myself, trying to summon the satisfaction that should come with this moment. "Another success for the spreadsheet."

My phone buzzes with a text from Jules:Heard the good news about the contract! Evie wants to celebrate tonight. Dinner at the lodge, 7pm. No excuses.

I hesitate before typing back:Thank you, but I should stay in Juniper Falls. Lots of work to do.

Her response is immediate:Paperwork can wait. Success can't. Besides, a certain activities coordinator will be VERY disappointed if you don't show.

A smile tugs at my lips before I can stop it. Jameson. After last night at the wedding reception, I'd fled back to my place, making flimsy excuses about early morning calls. The truth was more complicated. Something about the way he'd looked at me as we danced, the almost-confession I'd sensed coming, had sent me into full retreat mode.

This was supposed to be simple. A business arrangement. Pretend to be engaged, land the contract, go our separate ways. Developing actual feelings wasn't part of the deal.

And now with Denver potentially on the horizon...

My phone buzzes again:We won't take no for an answer. Besides, you owe Declan the chance to gloat about his Bennett Beef Wellington.

I sigh, knowing resistance is futile when the Callahans set their minds to something.Fine. 7pm.

Setting down my phone, I gather the files I need to drop off at the lodge office. With the contract signed, our arrangement is officially complete. No more pretending to be engaged. No more family dinners. No more moments like last night, dancing under string lights, feeling like something real was taking shape between us.

It should be a relief, especially with a potential move to Denver looming. So why does it feel like loss?

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