Page 64 of Heartstrings & Horizons
“Good nap?” I lean down and give her a kiss on the temple. She smiles at me, that genuine one that crinkles her eyes at the corners and brings out the dimples in her cheeks.
“So good. I didn’t realize I was so exhausted.”
Holding up the bags of groceries, I say “Hungry? I got stuff to make tacos.”
“You definitely know the way to a girl's heart, Cade Brooks.”
“There’s only one heart I want, Paige Roberts.”
Her eyes sparkle as she holds out her hand, beckoning me to help her to her feet. I can’t help but wrap her in a tight hug, not wanting to let her go. The moment is broken by a loud rumble from her stomach. She looks sheepish and I smile, “Ok, time to get some food in your belly.”
We head into the kitchen, working in tandem to put the groceries away before throwing together a buffet style taco spread. Once we’re settled at the island, side by side, I tell her all about my run-in with Rosie.
She laughs. “I love small towns.”
“You say that now… wait until they find out something embarrassing. Iwillhave to take you to meet Archie and Rosie soon or they’ll show up with torches and pitchforks for keeping you to myself for too long.”
“I wouldn’t say no to more of those pancakes. Maybe we can go tomorrow.”
“Actually, I had an idea to run by you. There’s a cute little bookstore and cafe on Main Street that I think you’d love. I’m honestly ashamed that I haven’t taken you there yet. I have the day off tomorrow and they’re hosting an event. Do you want to go?”
“Books and Coffee? I’m practically swooning. Of course I want to go!”
The rest of the evening is effortless, like we’ve been living together forever. She talks me into watching Season 3 of Bridgerton, then complains about how different it is from the books, but I can tell she loves it, anyway. We make love into the late hours and she falls asleep in my arms, right where she belongs.
Chapter 25
Paige
? Belong Together – Mark Ambor
I’m practically dragging Cade along main street towards Chapters and Brews. As the cozy storefront comes into view, I let out an audible gasp. Hand-painted vines and whimsical book quotes adorn the large picture windows. I tug Cade through the door, a small bell signaling our arrival. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, mingled with the scent of old books creates a comforting, almost nostalgic atmosphere. It’s a book-lover’s dream: floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with an eclectic mix of new releases and well-loved classics. The romance section is expansive, with a Beauty and the Beast style ladder that glides across the wall to wall shelves.
Mismatched cozy armchairs, and vintage wood tables are scattered throughout the space. The cafe counter is tucked into a corner, where a barista is preparing lattes and pastries for the morning rush. Cade smiles, but his eyes hold a hint of something I can’t quite place; mischief maybe. Suddenly, a small orange and white kitten is circling my legs. He lets out a little mewl and starts purring loudly. I crouch down to scratch his chin and he reaches up with his tiny paw and boops my nose.I think I’m in love.
“Hey there, little guy. What are you doing here?” I glance over at Cade, whose gaze is fixed on the back corner of the shop. I follow his line of sight to find a large sign advertising a cat adoption event in conjunction with the local animal shelter. It’s been transformed into a mini cat haven, complete with scratching posts, cozy beds, and every cat’s favorite toy — cardboard boxes. There’s a litter of kittens playfully chasing each other, along with several older cats scattered around the area. “Surprise, Sunshine.”
“You knew?! Books, coffee AND CATS?! I can’t believe you didn’t tell me.”
“I have to keep you on your toes.”
My little orange friend practically climbs my legs, so I hug him to my chest and follow Cade towards the back. We spend some time playing with the cats and talking to a few of the shelter volunteers. It’s heaven. An hour later, I’m sitting criss cross inside the little pen, the tiny orange ball of fluff asleep on my lap.
“What do you think… should we take him home?” A sudden rush of tears fills my eyes. I'm not sure if it’s from the word ‘home’ or the idea that Cade wants to adopt a cat with me. “I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to ignore the universal cat distribution system. It looks like this guy was meant to find you.”
“Yes! A thousand times, yes!” I have to resist the urge to shout and throw myself at Cade because my fluffy friend is fast asleep and I don’t want to startle him; I’ll have to show my appreciation some other way later tonight.
“Looks like Cheeto made a friend.” I glance toward the unfamiliar voice, finding one of the volunteers standing beside Cade. She’s short, barely more than 5 ft tall, but something tells me she’ll fight a bitch if provoked. “Hey, I’m Ivy. I’m a volunteer for the ‘Beans and Brews’ adoption event.”
“Nice to meet you! I’m Paige and this is my fiancé, Cade. Did you say this little guy’s name is Cheeto?” Something passes over her face when I introduce Cade, but the expression is fleeting and she replaces it with a soft smile.
“Yep! I’ve never seen him so calm before. He’s usually a ball of chaos and destruction.”
“We’d love to take him home, if that's ok?”
“Absolutely! Let’s get your paperwork filled out.”
“I’ll take care of everything. It looks like my girl is preoccupied.” Cade says, before he joins her at a small table in the corner.
