Page 36 of Connected By Souls

Emma

How do you do that? It’s like you can read my mind and know me better than myself. Are you psychic or something?

Noah

No, it’s just with you. I can sense what you’re feeling. I told you we’re connected.

Emma

I feel the connection too. It’s just freaky how you know me so well, and we just met. I won’t cancel. You’re right. I need to make friends, and this will be good for me.

Noah

That’s my girl. I promise you’ll have fun tonight.

Noah

And don’t overthink the “my girl” part like you’re about to do. That’s what I intend to make you, so get used to it.

Dammit, he did it again. I was overthinking. This guy is insufferable. I decide to tell him just that.

Emma

You’re insufferable, you know that?

Noah

I just know I always get what I want, and this isn’t any different.

Emma

Exactly my point! And Noah,

Noah

Yes?

Emma

Thank you for sanding my front porch. That was very sweet of you.

Noah

You’re welcome. I’m glad you liked it.

* * *

Nervous about meetingNoah’s mom and sister, I take a deep breath and try to calm my nerves. If they’re anything like Noah, I should get along with them really well, and I already know Maya is a sweetheart. I can do this—I tell myself as I step out of the car in front of BellaLuna Yoga. Grabbing my yoga mat, I head inside, determined to start now with making new friends.

I instantly fall in love with the studio when I walk in. Dark wood floors give contrast to white walls. Lush greenery is placed around the front area with small displays of yoga mats, clothing withBellaLuna Yogaon the front, crystals, and various beaded bracelets that line the wooden shelves on the wall. I notice a big display of sea glass jewelry, realizing that it would be Noah’s grandma who makes them. I glance down at the anklet I’m wearing and love that it’s from one of Noah’s family members.

Heading to the counter, I see a pretty, older brunette checking everyone in. Like me, she has her hair pulled into a cute messy bun. Smiling, she looks up at me, and I’m met with familiar blue eyes. “You must be Emma,” she says, coming around the counter to give me a big hug. “It’s so nice to finally meet you. I’m Sage, Noah’s mom. I’m so excited you came tonight! I talked to Noah today, and he made me promise to make sure you had a good time.”

Hugging her back, I smile at her. “It’s so nice to meet you too. I’ve missed going to yoga since I moved here. I’m excited to get back into it. Noah didn’t have to do that. I have no doubt I’ll have a great time.”

Walking back around the counter, she laughs. “That’s Noah for you, always making sure the ones he cares about are taken care of. The way he talks about you, I have no doubt that he cares.”

I feel my cheeks go red. “He’s a great guy. You must be very proud.”

---