Page 88 of Tattered and Torn

“Just be sure you invite us to your wedding. And, you’re welcome to hold the reception here. Free of charge.”

Maya and Travis stop in, as do Maggie, Owen, and their three kids. Ruth, Micah, and Jennie make an appearance, as does Ed from the butchers.

Even though I haven’t been in Bryce long, it already feels like home. I have friends here. And most importantly, I have John.

It turns out it was the right decision.

Toward the end of the evening, the crowd starts to thin out. I stand at the door to thank the guests as they leave, shaking lots of hands and hugging some newly familiar faces.

When everyone’s gone, I help the servers clear the dining room. The kitchen staff seems to have everything well in hand.

“Hey, you,” John says. He takes my hand and leads me out the French doors that lead to the rear patio. “Congratulations on a successful opening, honey.”

I smile, feeling both elated and relieved. “You think so?”

He clasps my waist and pulls me closer. “I know so. And it’s all because of you, Gabrielle.”

And then he kisses me. It’s a not-very-innocent kiss. Fortunately, we’re the only ones out here. His fingers slip into my hair, and he clutches the back of my head.

“I love you,” he murmurs against my lips. “I can never thank Hannah enough for bringing you here.”

I return his kiss. “I love you, too. Coming here was the best decision I ever made, because it brought me to you.”

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