“I’m leaving Tuesday,” she said. She couldn’t set her dreams aside for him. If she stayed she might lose both—the contest, which could mean the validation she’d wanted for so long, and him. “I don’t know what to say. It’s been too long. We’ve changed.” The words seemed harsh, even to her. She opened the car door and got out wishing she hadn’t said it. She mustered the strength to not take it back. “Thanks for helping Dad with the oven.” Her lips trembled.

“You’re welcome.”

After he dropped her off, she hurried to the refuge of her shop, went to her office, and closed the door. In a way, Andrew York was responsible for all of this. She’d been so hurt, so angry, that she’d set out to prove she could make her dreams come true without him. The only thing missing had been him. She rubbed her temples. And for seven years, good riddance Andrew York had been her motto. She closed her eyes, her chest aching, unsure if what her heart yearned for could ever be true.

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty

The whole time Andrew worked on the oven at Main Street café, he’d hoped Kelly might show up and say something. Maybe she’d invite him to go with her, or at least ask him to stay until she got back. That didn’t happen.

She didn’t say she didn’t have feelings too.

That has to mean something.

Monday came around a lot faster than he’d expected. He’d been worried when he scheduled the trip that he’d be chomping at the bit to get out of this little town, but that hadn’t been the case.

He packed his suitcase, knowing he should be excited about the opportunities this New York trip could present, but honestly he’d have chucked it all to stay and give it a go with Kelly, had she given him an inkling of hope.

He zipped up his bag and rolled it toward the front door. Mom and Dad were talking in the kitchen. He left his suitcase at the door.

“Good morning. What are you still doing home, Dad? I thought you’d already be at work,” he said.

“Couldn’t let you leave without saying goodbye.”

“I’d have stopped by to say goodbye. I promise.”

“Now you won’t have to,” Dad said. “Your mom’s making us a nice breakfast. A family meal before you head out. Your sister is on the way.”

“Sister is right here.” Dawn announced as she came into the kitchen. “On time, even.”

“Now this is a celebration,” Andrew teased.

Breakfast was good, and Andrew was finding it hard to say goodbye.

“I guess I’d better get on the road.”