Page 106 of Dear Pink

A little boy runs over and tugs on my T-shirt. He must be close to five. I bend down on my knees to look him in the eyes.

“What grade are you in?” I ask.

“I start kindergarten in two days. I’m big now.”

“You are.”

“I like the red bike. Can I keep it forever?”

“Yes, it’s for you.” The boy hugs the bike, giving me chills.

“Let’s see if we can find a helmet in your size.” I hold up two options: a red one and a blue and red striped design.

He points behind me. “I like the one over there.” It’s a black bike helmet with colorful hearts and stars all over it.

“Yes. I agree. It’s the coolest one we have.” I hand the helmet to him, and he beams.

“Thank you,” he says before sprinting to his mom.

“Hey, Pink.” I turn around to find Gabe adjusting a helmet for a little boy with dark curls. “This is our last kiddo, then we’re done for the day.”

I glance around. The vendors and volunteers have packed up. I check my watch and am shocked to see the day has flown by. We only have six bikes left.

“Thanks for the new bike,” the last kid says, steering toward his waiting parents.

“No problem, buddy.” Gabe waves.

I tilt on my tiptoes and plant a kiss on Gabe’s willing lips. “Thank you.”

Gabe squeezes me. “It was my pleasure. Today was a blast.”

“Do you think the kids enjoyed it?”

“They loved it, Hannah. Best bike giveaway eva.”

He laughs, indicating he too loved it.

“Give me a few more minutes.” He points behind him. “I need to help those kids out.”

I watch as he joins a group of high school volunteers and listen to them discuss the qualities of different bikes. Gabe’s in his element discussing the various trails the kids can take around town. Our next event should include a planned ride with guides. They are all smiles while Gabe adjusts the gears on one of the bikes, showing the new riders how to fix the chain. He’s a natural educator.

Taking in the scene, those antsy butterflies from the morning stir awake. This time the fluttering isn’t nerves over the event’s success. It’s the way Gabe makes me feel. I’m past the “like” phase. I’m falling in love. I’m way past the point of no return. The butterflies dance wildly. I’m crazy in love with Mr. Fancy.

“Earth to Hannah?” I turn to find four of Gabe’s sisters grinning at me. They caught me watching Gabe.

“You really dig him, huh?” Gina says.

“Yeah. I do.”

They share a sisterly glance, making me flush.

“Of course, you do. He’s adorable,” Gina states with an innocence that warms my heart.

“Okay guys, focus here,” Gloria says. “Hannah, we packed the remaining helmets and bikes, and Dad agreed to store them in the garage until the next event. Do you need anything else before we leave?”

“No. All good here. Thank you for your help. Today was better than I could have dreamed.”

“Are you kidding? This was the most fun ever.” Gemma beams. “Thank you for including us.”

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