Chapter Twenty-two

The Bloomin’ Tulip contest was now underway.

Table after table showcased the colorful blooms from red and white to deep purple with many vibrant shades in between. Spring had definitely sprung.

Hannah was still mulling over Lily’s suggestion that she tell Ethan about her growing feelings for him. She wondered what he’d do if she were to ask him to stay. Would he laugh at the suggestion of him giving up his successful career as a big city firefighter? Or would he look at her with pity reflected in his eyes because he didn’t feel the same way for her?

“What event is next?” Ethan’s father asked, drawing Hannah from her thoughts.

Judging the enormous amount of tulip entries would take some time. Hannah had decided to move the awards ceremony to the end of all the events in order to keep people from growing bored and drifting away from the festival.

She glanced down at her clipboard. “It’s the egg-decorating contest. It’s new this year.”

“Was it your idea?” Marshall asked.

Hannah nodded. “I thought it would be fun for everyone. It’s split into age groups and will replace the kid’s coloring contest. This way the whole community can participate.” She arched a brow at Ethan’s father. “So what do you say? Want to decorate an egg?”

He shook his head. “I’d probably crack one.”

“Don’t worry, they aren’t real eggs. We’re supplying ceramic ones so everyone can take them home afterward.”

“Good idea. But I’m afraid I don’t have an artistic bone in my body.”

Ethan came rushing over. “Hurry up. You don’t want to be late.”

He was looking directly at her, but Hannah didn’t know what he was talking about. “Late for what?”

“The contest. You’re entered.”

She shook her head. “I didn’t enter.”

Just then Josie called out her name on the megaphone. “Hannah Bell, report to table two.”

When she turned a puzzled look back at Ethan, she said, “What did you do?”

He sent her a grin. “Just go have some fun.”

“I…I don’t know. I’m the coordinator.”

Ethan held out his hand and took the clipboard and pen from her. “Now I’m the coordinator.”

“But Ethan—”

“Just go.”

She had to admit that participating sounded like fun. Everyone else was having a great time; maybe it was time she relaxed and enjoyed the festival. She’d left everything in Ethan’s capable hands.

She approached Josie. “Where do you want me?”

Her friend pointed to the last empty folding chair at the table. “That spot is yours.”

Hannah lit up with a smile when she noticed the seat was right beside her niece. Nikki’s face glowed with happiness as she waved her over. This was going to be fun. She treasured the time spent with her niece.

Agnes Dewey stepped in Hannah’s way. “You can’t participate.”

“Excuse me.” Hannah surely hadn’t heard her correctly.

Agnes’s face scrunched up with frown lines. “You organized this festival, therefore you can’t take part.”

“Says who?” Josie crossed her arms.