Between Then and Now (Hallow’s End #1)

21. Chapter 21

Chapter 21

I COULDN’T SHAKE ETHAN from my mind all weekend. His texts were a constant tease, each one more suggestive than the last, building the tension between us until it felt like a tightly wound string ready to snap. My body craved him with a need that left me restless, and no matter how much I tried to focus on other things, my thoughts kept drifting back to him—his touch, his lips, the way he looked at me like he wanted to devour me.

I threw myself into preparing the gallery, hoping the work would be enough to distract me. I spent hours painting, sorting through pieces, and arranging the space just right, tiring myself out enough that I could at least sleep at night. But even in my dreams, I couldn’t escape him. I’d wake up breathless, covered in sweat, the ache between my thighs a constant reminder of just how badly I wanted him. It was as if every part of me was attuned to him, and the anticipation was driving me wild .

Halloween was fast approaching, and the town was buzzing with excitement, as preparations for the Spooktacular Hallow’s Eve kicked into high gear. Pumpkins, flickering lanterns, and cobwebs that hung like eerie curtains from every streetlight and storefront decorated the streets of Hallow’s End.

Even though the big event was still a week away, the town square was already a hive of activity. The local volunteers were busy setting up the haunted house, a centerpiece that drew visitors from miles around every year. Transformed into a spine-chilling maze of horrors, the old, abandoned mansion had animatronic ghosts, skeletons, and hidden surprises waiting to spook the bravest souls.

In the square itself, a large stage was being constructed for the live performances scheduled throughout the Spooktacular weekend—everything from local bands playing eerie tunes, to storytelling sessions where kids and adults alike would gather to hear ghostly tales. Vendors were setting up stalls, preparing to sell hand-carved pumpkins, homemade pies, candles, and Halloween-themed crafts. It was a true celebration of the season, with every detail meticulously planned to create a magical atmosphere, and the energy in the air was contagious.

With the town gearing up for the event of the year, I’d decided to open The Cozy Canvas a week before the big weekend. The timing felt right, as tourists were already trickling into town, eager to soak up the Halloween spirit. I hoped that, by opening early, I could start building a reputation ahead of the main event.

As I hung the last of the paintings on the gallery walls, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for Ivy’s help. She had stepped in to manage the social media accounts, understanding how much was on my plate with the grand opening just days away. Ivy had been a lifeline, posting daily updates and countdowns that were both fun and engaging. Her content was a perfect blend of behind-the-scenes glimpses of the gallery coming together, playful shots of our progress, and even a few videos of Ethan and me working side by side. Those moments, sweeter than I’d expected, captured our budding relationship in a way that felt both tender and genuine.

Ivy had truly gone above and beyond, not just with the social media, but by setting up a GoFundMe page for the gallery, and organizing a raffle to help cover the costs of launching some lessons and workshops. The raffle prizes included private art sessions with me, and a beautifully curated giveaway basket filled with local business gems. The response from the community had been overwhelming, and it was touching to see how everyone rallied around The Cozy Canvas.

I knew Ivy’s help with social media was temporary, just until the gallery found its rhythm and everything settled into a routine. After the opening, I’d take over running the accounts and handling the day-to-day operations. But for now, Ivy’s support allowed me to focus on what mattered most: bringing my vision to life. Everything was coming together more beautifully than I could have hoped and, as the final touches were added to the gallery, I felt a swell of pride and anticipation for what was to come.

At the last town meeting, the community’s support for the gallery had been more than I could have imagined. People offered to help in any way they could, from donating supplies, to volunteering their time. It was a heartwarming reminder that Hallow’s End was a place where people truly cared about one another, where your neighbors became your friends, and where everyone looked out for each other. Experiencing that firsthand made me feel like I was finally part of something special—something I’d never had before.

Amidst all this, I received a text that caught me off guard. It was from my mom. She’d seen the social media posts, including one of Ethan and me together, and her message was surprisingly supportive. It was a timid text, but it was clear she was trying. She even mentioned that Ethan seemed handsome , which, coming from her, was a big step. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to me, like a bridge was being slowly built between us.

Before I knew it, Friday had rolled around again. The gallery was nearly ready, and Ivy and Amelia were there to help me with the final touches. We hung garlands of autumn leaves, arranged displays, and made sure everything was perfect for the opening. But, no matter how busy I was, my thoughts kept drifting back to Ethan, and I couldn’t stop thinking about seeing him tonight. I was a bundle of nerves and anticipation, eager for what the evening might bring.

As the day came to an end, and the last of the decorations were in place, I locked up the gallery with a sense of accomplishment. My thoughts were already on Ethan as I made my way to his place, the cool evening air nipping at my skin as I hurried along the familiar path. The excitement whispering inside me only grew as I approached his place.

When Ethan opened the door, his warm smile instantly put me at ease, and the smell of something delicious wafted out from behind him, making my stomach rumble in anticipation. He looked relaxed, dressed in a simple dark Henley that hugged his chest just right, paired with worn jeans that clung to his lean hips.

“Hey,” he greeted, stepping forward and pulling me in for a kiss. His lips lingered on mine for a moment, sending a rush of warmth through my veins, and the simple gesture had me feeling giddy, a smile already spreading across my face as I stepped inside.

We reached the living room, and I was immediately struck by the romantic setting. The soft, amber glow of candlelight danced across the walls, casting flickering shadows that seemed to sway in rhythm with the gentle crackling of the fireplace .

A small wooden table, that usually was in his kitchen, now stood at the heart of the room and, in its center, was a bouquet of fresh roses, the scent of the blossoms mingling with the subtle fragrance of the candles.

Everywhere I looked, there was evidence of Ethan’s thoughtfulness. A bottle of red wine stood uncorked on the table, with two glasses set beside it, catching the light and gleaming like jewels.

“This is beautiful,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper as I took it all in. My heart swelled with appreciation for the effort he’d put into tonight, and I looked back at him, my curiosity piqued. “I’m dying to know what you’re cooking.”

Ethan’s eyes sparkled with a playful glint as he led me further into the room. “Well, I did warn you—I’m not much of a cook. But I make a decent spaghetti Bolognese and, tonight, that’s what’s on the menu.”

I laughed, feeling the tension of the day begin to melt away. “That sounds perfect.”

We settled at the table and, Ethan watched me as I took my first bite. The pasta was cooked to perfection, the sauce rich and flavorful, and the entire dish was clearly made with care and attention.

“This is really good,” I said, savoring the taste. “You weren’t kidding when you said you were good at this.”

Ethan’s smile widened, a blend of pride and relief in his expression. “Glad you think so. It’s one of the few things I know how to make without burning down the kitchen. Though, I did have to call my mom for a refresher to make sure I got it just right.”

I chuckled, warmth spreading through me at the thought of him wanting everything to be perfect. “Well, you’ve definitely mastered it. Tell your mom she’s taught you well. ”

“I wanted tonight to be special for you,” he said, his voice tender. “I know the gallery has been stressing you out, and I just wanted you to relax. Let someone else take care of you for a change.”

His words wrapped around my heart. “Thank you, Ethan. This means more to me than you know.”

He reached across the table, taking my hand in his, the warmth of his touch grounding me. “You’ve been working so hard, Vinnie. You deserve to enjoy this moment. The gallery is going to be amazing, and you’ve done everything you can to make it perfect.”

“I hope so. It feels like everything is finally coming together, but I can’t help but feel a little anxious.” I nodded, feeling nerves flutter in my stomach.

Ethan’s expression grew more serious, though there was still a hint of humor in his eyes. “There’s something I should warn you about. My dad’s coming to the opening tomorrow.”

I looked at him in surprise. “Your dad?”

He nodded, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. “Yeah, my mom hasn’t stopped talking about you, and Lily’s been talking nonstop about that Taylor Swift sleepover idea ever since you mentioned it to her. My mom’s just thrilled to see both of her kids so happy, and now my dad’s curious to meet the woman who’s got all of us wrapped around her finger.”

“I’d love to meet him,” I said through the butterflies stirring in my stomach.

“Trust me,” he said with a reassuring smile, squeezing my hand gently. “He’s going to love you. And hey, if you can handle Lily’s energy, you’ve already won him over.”