I pushed aside my initial reaction of embarrassment and trusted my instincts. I’d asked it for a reason, even if I had no idea what it was yet. “Pardon my goofiness.” I chuckled nervously. “I’m a city girl who devours romance novels and Hallmark movies set in small towns.” I made a sweeping motion around the store. “Charming indie bookstores like this often play a big role in how the couples meet, and I was just wondering if there’s any truth to that here.”

The woman continued to stare at me as if debating whether to call the town doctor—whom I’d yet to meet—for a consult. Then she threw back her head in laughter. “As the owner of a bookstore, I get asked a lot of questions, but this is a first.”

“The change of scenery has brought out my quirky side, that’s for sure,” I said with a sheepish shrug.

She smiled warmly. “I’ve never witnessed a love match here myself, but in a sense, it’s where my parents met.”

“Do tell!”

The front entrance sounded the arrival of a new customer, whom she welcomed cordially before turning back to me. “Before the store was even built, when it was just unoccupied land, my dads put separate but matching bids on the property. While scoping out the competition, they discovered they both planned to use the space for the same purpose: a bookstore. They partnered up and fell in love.” She surveyed the store with visible pride. “And the rest is history.”

Goosebumps rose on my skin. “Wow. I’m full-on choked up here! What an amazing story.”

Her eyes danced. “Isn’t it?”

“I’d love to talk to your dads if they’d be interested.” I removed my business card from my purse. Along with my name, phone number, and email address were the words COACH, ENERGIZER, STORYTELLER to correspond to my three vocations as a cycling instructor, barista, and journalist. “I’m a journalist from the city. You might recognize me from when I was in here last week.”

She nodded. “I do. We don’t get many new faces. I’m Grace.”

I shook the slender hand she extended. “My original story angle fell through.” I immediately regretted letting that detail slip. Oh well. Too late now. “Although I’m not sure what direction the article will take, the more material the better.” My stomach cramped with the knowledge I’d eventually have to figure it out. I would figure it out. “Even if they don’t want to be featured, serendipitous love stories like your fathers’ are good for the spirit.”

“I agree.” Grace dropped her voice to a whisper. “Between us, I love Hallmark movies too. Pure fantasy.”

“Totally. Like a dreamworld. A utopia! Nothing like real life.” I cleared my throat. “You mind if I take some photos before I go?”