Tonight was one of the best nights I had at the inn. There was an anniversary celebration for a couple who got married here fifty years ago. Can you believe it? Grandpop was the best man because the groom’s family was against this wedding.

It’s moments like these that make me realize that this inn isn’t just a part of our family but of all those people’s lives who celebrated here.

I can’t wait to be part of such stories.

~ Autumn

From: lukasspencer

To: autumnthefallqueen

Hi, Autumn,

I’m happy you’re getting to see a life I never thought existed beyond the movies.

I think some people have all the luck when it comes to love, and some are just the unlucky ones. Unfortunately, I fall into the latter category. But I have full faith you’ll get the chance to be part of such a celebration of life.

- Lukas

“How are you doing?” Mom asks me as I flip through the emails from the past. They have almost become my obsession these days. “You look pale, tums.”

“I’m okay, Mom. It was a huge wedding, so I’m bound to be a little pale.”

Mom places three dinner plates onto the table. “I can’t believe we hosted a celebrity wedding that went so perfectly. I’m so proud of you.”

“Me too.” Dad walks inside through the main door, carrying a plate of grilled veggies.

“Why are we bringing in food from outside?” I ask after digging my fork into a grilled potato wedge.

“Since Lukas showed him, Dad has become a fan of grilling,” Mom says and then they both abruptly stop arranging the table and look at each other.

“You can say his name in front of me.” I slide onto a chair.

My parents follow suit but still don’t say anything until Dad clears his throat. “What has happened between you two? Is Lukas gone for work? Or…”

I take a deep breath and glance at my parents. “He gave me divorce papers.”

Dad’s lips purse together while Mom’s face pales as she says, “But I thought… You both…”

I hold her shaking hands in mine. “You were right, Mom. I love him. I love him a lot.”

“But he doesn’t love you back?” Mom gets up and paces the floor. Her hands run over her arms. “This is all our fault. First the marriage, then not getting a divorce. We let it go for too long.”

“Mom, please calm down,” I whisper, because her hurried steps going back and forth are increasing my headache.

“Laura, come here.” Dad grabs Mom’s shoulder and leads her back to a chair. He then takes a seat between us and adds, “Let’s hear what Autumn has to say, okay?”

I give him a small smile, thanking him for understanding that I can’t take Mom’s panic and worry right now.