I stash the newly laundered napkins in the perfectly designed cubby and step back, pleased with myself. I’ve spent the last week learning the details of working in Blossom, because I’ve been moved from Autumn. It’s a promotion. Kind of. I’ll do half my shifts here and help out during special events, which comes with bonus pay. It’s nice to be doing things on different days. I’ll get to work with different people, meet different guests. I’m aware that I might not be here forever, but for now, I’m… happy.

I figure it will take some time to work out what I want to do with my life. Maybe I’ll stay on as a waitress at the Colorado Club. But talking to Marion about her college applications has made me ask questions of myself I’ve never asked before. I don’t know what I would have done after high school if I’d had the chance to choose. Would I have wanted to go to college? I knew it was never an option, so I never even fantasized about it.

Maybe I’ll go to veterinary school. Or become an English teacher. I’ve never thought about the possibilities because the future wasn’t ever my decision. My mom said I would be a good receptionist because I was pretty. So that’s what I did. Even when I stood in front of the mirror on the day I was supposed to get married, I don’t think I understood all the choices I’d have in front of me if I left Oregon. I never thought of what was possible. Just what was impossible: marrying Frank.

As if my thoughts summon him, I see a figure in the doorway that looks exactly like Frank from the back. But it can’t be.

Since my shift just ended, I head in that direction. When I get just a few yards away, the figure in the doorway turns—and I come face-to-face with my ex-fiancé.

“Frank?” It’s a stupid question. It’s obviously him. He looks more tired than I remember. A little older. His suit is a little rumpled and his tie a little crooked.

“Rosey!” His eyes are full of relief, but all I feel is heavy. Is he here to bring me back? Can he force me? Is my mom behind all this?

I glance around to see if anyone’s spotted him. I’m sure non-employees shouldn’t be wandering around this place. He probably shouldn’t even be on Colorado Club land. I don’t know how he managed to end up here, but he’s going to get us both into a ton of trouble.

“What are you doing here?” My jaw is tight and my fists are clenched. I’m ready to fight for my freedom. I don’t want to go back with him.