It was mind-boggling how many people had shown up for Hester’s grand opening. She’d made at least fifty pies praying that she wouldn’t have too many left over, and it turned out that she could have baked four times as many and not had nearly enough.

Renee cleared her throat. “If you’ll all humor me, I have a few words.” The crowd grew quiet. “We would not be here today if it wasn’t for the love and support of not only Cranberry Cove, but of those closest to us. They’ve put up with a lot of long hours and done a lot of the heavy lifting as we embraced this dream, and we will be forever grateful.” Renee slung one arm around Bree and the other around Tansy. She caught Essie Park’s gaze in the audience. “And we certainly wouldn’t be here if a certain real estate agent wasn’t so darn persistent.”

Everyone laughed, and Essie gave a delicate wave fitting of Queen Elizabeth basking in the attention.

“Thanks to every single one of you for believing in Hester’s and the Old Red Mill. And for believing in us,” Sadie chimed in. “This town is such a special place. Not only do we get to enjoy the best beach in all of New England—not that I’m biased or anything—but the most amazing people in the whole world call this place home. This is a town that looks out for each other and we have each other’s backs. I know and appreciate that more than ever.”

Tears prickled Renee’s eyes as she watched Ethan kiss the top of Sadie’s head and heard him whisper a hoarse “I love you.” She saw them nod toward Officer Tyler, who tipped his hat in reply.

Her next-door neighbors were going to be okay. Her sister was going to be fine—she had to, there was no other option here.

After offering up a silent prayer, she took a step forward. “We want everyone to feel welcome here, at Hester’s in particular, but also at the entire Old Red Mill. This is going to be a space for everyone to gather, whether that’s over a slice of pie, while searching for the perfect shade of yarn at Castaway’s, exploring their artistic abilities at a pinot-and-painting event at Chickadee, or taking a break on a nature walk. This old mill can teach us new lessons about family, friends, and community. We hope you’ll all become regulars.”

Everyone clapped and cheered.

“We’d like our children to do the honors of cutting the ribbon,” she said as Sadie reached for Lincoln, helping him to the ground.

“Me help! And then I eat!” Lincoln shouted, making everyone laugh.

With a dramatic snip, the ribbon was cut.

Hester’s was officially open for business.