Ethan gazed into her eyes. “I need you to know that I’m a firefighter. I’ll always be a firefighter. But I don’t want it to be the sole focus of my life.”

“What are you saying?”

“That even though I walked away from firefighting full-time in New York, I’m still going to be a volunteer here on the island. It’s a part of who I am, just as your baking is a part of you. Is it something you can live with?”

She was quiet for a moment as she gave his question serious consideration. “If you’d have asked me that question a month ago, I’d have said no. But I’ve learned a lot about myself since then. Yes, I can live with it. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

He got to his feet and then held his hand out to her. He helped her to her feet. As they stood next to the stone wall, he gazed deep into her eyes while his hands rested on her hips. “Hannah, you showed me that there is more to life than what is expected of me. You helped me find the courage to go after what I truly enjoy—what fulfills me. And I thank you. Hannah, I love you with all my heart.”

She blinked repeatedly, holding back her tears of joy. He’d just said exactly what she’d been longing to hear. Her heart beat so loud it echoed in her ears.

Her hands rested on his solid chest. “You helped me see that I was clinging too tightly to the past—to the pain that I needed to let go in order to enjoy the memories. Thank you. You’ve given me back my past and my present. I love you too. And I hope you’ll be a part of my future.”

“I couldn’t think of anything I’d like more.”

Her hands slid up over his broad shoulders. As her fingers wrapped around the back of his neck, drawing him to her, she lifted up on her tiptoes. He met her halfway, pressing his lips to hers. It felt as though she were floating on a cloud.

When they parted, Ethan asked, “Does this mean I get a blueberry muffin every day?”

She grinned at him. “Every day? Don’t you think you’ll get tired of them?”

“Not a chance. Just like I’ll never get tired of this.” And then he kissed her.

She agreed.

This was the best.

And it was only just the beginning.

Keep reading Hannah and Ethan’s story! Sign up for my newsletter and receive a Bonus Epilogue.

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And then return to Bluestar Island for the next book in this heartwarming series…HARVEST DANCE. A single dad, who’s in over his head, and an event planner running from her past, are drawn together on charming Bluestar Island by a determined six-year-old and her escape-artist goat. You can learn more HERE.

The Elegant Baker’s Blueberry Crumble Muffins

The Elegant Baker’s Blueberry Crumble Muffins (makes 12)