He turned his head and glimpsed her pleased expression over his shoulder. “I think she’s a great person. But I just met her, so I don’t really know much about her.” Yet he found himself wanting to know everything there was to know about Serenity Wheeler, from her favorite color to what made her laugh. “Have you talked to Drea?”

“She called me earlier in the week. Said they’re keeping her busy, but she’s happy. Lord knows I miss my baby, but it was time for her to live her life.”

Outside of a text, he hadn’t talked to his sister in over a week. She told him she was trying to keep her word and not bug him. He teased her about the frequency, but deep down he didn’t mind. He slid the skillet into the oven and sat next to Nana.

Giving him a soft smile, she said, “You need to live yours, too, baby.”

“I am.” He paused to look at her. “Speaking of that, what do you think about moving to Atlanta with me?”

“My life is here, Gabriel. My friends, my church family, everything. I know you and your sister think you need to watch over me, but I’m fine. When the Good Lord decides it’s time for me to see Him, it’ll be time, and I’m going to be buried here right next to your grandfather. I understand that you want to go back to Atlanta—it’s your home—and you’re free to do that. I just want you and your sister to come and visit every now and again.”

Gabriel bowed his head and listened to her words, torn between going back to the life he had and his obligation to his family. Andrea was enjoying her job, and he couldn’t ask her to give up her newfound freedom. She’d earned it. Then there was Serenity. Did he really want to leave without getting to know her?

*  *  *

Almost a week later, Serenity still couldn’t get the near kiss out of her mind. More than once, she fantasized about what might’ve happened if Ms. Della hadn’t been there. No, I know exactly what would have happened. A kiss would have happened.

“Earth to Serenity.” Terri snapped her fingers in front of Serenity’s face.

She jumped. “Huh?”

Terri frowned. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah,” she said, waving her off. “Just thinking about something. It’s nothing. What did you say?” Natasha and Dana also wore concerned expressions.

“I asked if you were baking again for the Fourth.”

“Yes, but I haven’t decided what to make yet.” Serenity liked to change her offerings, instead of making the same thing year after year.

Dana tapped on the table. “I know what you should make—more of those boozed-up berries.”