Page 36 of Battle of the Exes

Ivy’s reaction to our kiss was to run. Fight or flight and she chose the latter option. Not me. I’m ready and willing to fight for what I want. And what I want is Ivy.

Seeing her again after all this time, the attraction has only grown. She's even more captivating, more quick-witted, more everything. Time hasn’t dulled my feelings. It’s only sharpened them. Whether I like it or not, Ivy is still the woman I dream about.

A woman who has repeatedly made it clear wants nothing to do with me.

Still, I’ve got five days until the Peaks and Prose Festival, the biggest literary event this town’s ever hosted, and the main reason I’m even here. Ivy and I are both on the job. Like it or not, she’ll have to see me again.

Until then, I’ve got Jasper to wrangle. The man’s a brilliant writer, moody, and one step away from bailing at any given moment. I arranged a private writing room for him at the hotel, a space with lakeside views. But I’m also keeping him busy with a couple of online interviews and offered him the spotlight stage event at the festival to sweeten the deal. He’s still grouchy, but at least he’s not threatening to fly home. Yet.

So I juggle. Jasper’s needs, Ivy’s avoidance, my own stupid heart.

Five days until the festival.

Five days to figure out if I’ve got a real shot at changing Ivy’s mind.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Ivy

Today’s the day. I’m not sure what to expect when I pull into the lot behind the rec center. The event isn’t scheduled to start for another few hours, but I woke up feeling compelled to check things out. So much is riding on this. The Silver Quill’s survival, Rue’s livelihood, our family’s legacy.

Over the last week, I booked a folk band, sent about a thousand emails, and met with most local businesses, leaving the rec center work to Beau. Since our toe-tingling kiss, we’ve texted solely about the festival.

I step out of the car and take a deep, cleansing breath. It helps calm my nerves. Huge banners hang overhead, emblazoned with The Silver Quill logo and an impressive list of sponsors. Honestly, I’m floored at how quickly Beau pulled thistogether.

I make my way across the lush grassy expanse, no longer the puddle-filled, muddy mess I saw a few days ago.

For a moment, it’s enough to make me consider moving back. But I push the silly thought away. Back then, I couldn’t leave this place fast enough. Granted, there were extenuating circumstances, but still. I’ve built a life in New York.

A concession stand and stage are being erected. I suspect this is where Rue will interview Jasper. Vendors are setting up their booths. I note many local shops are represented. Several publishing tents boast books and swag. I have to admit, there’s potential here but I won’t get my hopes up just yet. I’ve made that mistake before. With Beau Carter.

Butterflies take flight in my belly when I spot him in the distance. He’s in rolled-up sleeves, casual and easy-breezy. I don’t mean to smile. Really, I don’t.

He’s chatting with two people wearing lanyards, pointing towards the stage like he’s directing them. I recognize them as the musicians I booked. Something Beau says makes them laugh. Ever the charmer.

A week ago, I might have felt wary, even a tad competitive. But after seeing what we managed together, I’m no longer skeptical.

I slow near the booth for Jasper’s publisher, where stacks of books are meticulously displayed. I’ve managed to side-step his not-so-subtle advances but if he tries anything bolder, he’ll swiftly learn I’m not one to smile and stay quiet.

My attention reverts back to Beau. Beneath thatcharm and stupid little dimple, he’s still the only man who’s ever made my judgment short-circuit.

Before he can notice me, I head back to my car, hoping he was right all along and that the first-ever Silver Pine literary pop-up won’t leave us all deflated.

Chapter Thirty

Beau

Isee Ivy get into her car and drive away. I haven’t seen her in nearly a week—only a few short texts here and there. I want to go over, say something, anything, but I can read her like I used to. She’s holding back. Guarded. It stings a little that she didn’t say hello but I don’t blame her. We left things weird.

Still, it doesn’t make it easier.

Personally, I’m proud of what I pulled off—calling in favors from colleagues I’ve worked with over the years. Most were happy to help, especially if it meant a weekend in the mountains on the company’s dime. Some saw a fresh market to tap into. Either way, it worked.

Ivy, without knowing anything in advance about my plan, brought in a whole lineup of local vendors. Shenailed it. There have to be at least thirty booths out here now. The place looks legit.

It occurs to me that I haven’t heard from Jasper since yesterday afternoon, so I shoot him a quick text to see if he wants to come check out the setup.

When there’s no reply, I remind myself not to worry. Jasper will be here. All will be fine.

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