Holiday Reunion (Hollyberry Harbor #1)

Epilogue

One Year Later

James entered the café and let his gaze sweep through the renovated lobby. There were small tables now. They’d had to figure out a way to add some seating room for those who didn’t want to take their treats outside.

Sarah was the creative one on that front. She reduced her display case and installed a smaller one with samples on the side of the bakery with a larger variety in the back. The whole place was decked out like it belonged in the North Pole. Red and white tile, white tables with red chairs, and pictures of snow-covered hills were just the start of her obsession. She had mistletoe hanging above the door with the bell and occasionally her guests would kiss on their way out.

Out of everyone in their merry slice of heaven, Sarah had been the one to embrace the theme the most. The café was as busy as ever. It had only taken about six months for news to spread about the Christmas village. Lake Harbor had curious people poking around well before they were ready to cut the ribbons for their official opening.

It was thrilling to say the least.

James hovered back by the door, waiting to catch sight of his girlfriend. She only emerged when she sent her employees off for their breaks. But today would be different. Brie would see to that.

Even though the ring wasn’t as big and flashy as some might prefer, it still weighed his pocket down with the expectation for how this afternoon would go.

Christmas Eve had turned into one of the busiest days of the year and he couldn’t see Sarah wanting to close up at their agreed-upon time for the holiday. Then again, she was always full of surprises.

He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, watching for any sign Brie was ready and waiting.

Then he caught sight of Sarah and his heart went from a quick pitter-patter to a heavy thunder. They’d been dating for a full year. Heck, they’d talked about next steps more often than he’d like to admit. And yet he was terrified she was going to turn him down.

James felt uneasy. Sarah noticed him and gave him a smile and a wave like she usually did when he stopped by. But then Brie practically pushed her out of the kitchen.

Sarah laughed at her friend, shooting James a bright smile. “Fine,” she murmured. “I’ll go. But only if you promise you can close up without me.”

“I’ve done it a hundred times before. I think I can handle it,” Brie gave her another push then flashed James a knowing smile. “You two have fun.”

Sarah barely had time to snatch her coat from the hook by the door before Brie had her all the way out into the lobby. “I don’t know what’s gotten into her lately. She’s been trying to get me out of the café all day.”

James laced his hand with hers then placed both of them into his coat pocket. “You work too hard. She just wants you to take care of yourself.”

“You guys always say that, and I’m fine.” Still, even as she said it, she leaned into him wearily. “I have to say, though, I’m glad we’re closed on Christmas day. I think another day like today so soon would do me in.” She sighed. It wasn’t as tired as he had expected, though. The sigh was more of one expressing a contented happiness.

“You’ll be itching to go back the day after Christmas if I know you.”

“You’re probably right,” she laughed softly. “So… where are we going tonight? I can’t say I’m going to be up for much. And since this place is closing up here soon, it’s gonna have to be quick.”

James pressed a light kiss to her temple. “I was thinking about going to the pier.”

“I really don’t think I can ice skate?—”

“No ice skating. Just a walk,” he assured her.

“Oh, okay. That actually sounds nice.”

They wandered along the sidewalks and he ended up taking a longer route than expected.

“This place feels so different,” she whispered. “And at the same time, I feel like nothing has changed. It’s weird, isn’t it?” She craned her neck around to look up at him. Those eyes pierced him, her ability to see right through him one of his greatest weaknesses. Sarah pulled back from him with a small frown. “What’s the matter?”

He tried to quell his nerves with a laugh, but it came out strained and uneven. “Nothing’s wrong. I’m great.”

She lifted a single brow. “You don’t sound fine.”

“I’m perfect,” he assured her. “Maybe it’s this place. I can’t believe we’re finally here, watching it all play out like I hoped it would.” James motioned around them. “It’s like you’ve always said. Tradition and the memories that go along with them are worth saving. Everywhere I turn, I see something that stirs an emotion or a belief inside me. I couldn’t imagine a future without them.”

Sarah pulled him close. “You are so different than the man I had thought you to be. And I’m so glad I was wrong.”

He chuckled. “Me too.” His heart started up again, hammering and thundering against his ribcage. “Do you remember what happened a year ago?”

“Remember? I don’t think I’ll ever be able to forget.” Sarah pulled back just enough to stare up at him. “It was the day you changed my life forever.”

“Do you remember what I asked you?”

This time she looked confused.

“I wanted you to promise me something,” he continued.

Still, she didn’t seem to recall.

“But we were interrupted.” Slowly, James dropped down onto one knee. Sarah gasped, her hands covering her mouth and her eyes shining with emotion. James pried one of those hands free and he held it firmly within his own. “A year ago, I was going to ask you to promise me something. I wanted you to give me a chance. But things are different, now. And I can’t help but want even more. Sarah, I can’t imagine a life without you in it. I don’t want to wake up without you by my side. I want to make new memories and start new traditions—together. Sarah, I love you so much. Make me the happiest man alive and marry me.”

He held his breath despite knowing this was something she wanted just as much as he did. Still, it was nerve-racking to have to wait for even a second.

Sarah nodded, overcome with emotion. She flung her arms around his neck, nearly toppling the two of them into the snow. Her lips peppered his face with quick kisses. “Just so you know, I love you more.”

Find out what happens when Melody and Blake bond because of the little boy they both love and things begin to change. It’s possible that a little boy can bring them all together at just the right time.