“France is beautiful,” Andrew responded, not even sure who had asked.

“We wouldn’t know,” Sam said. “Didn’t even get a postcard from the world traveler.”

“Guilty.” What kind of friend am I?

“You should post pictures on Facebook or something.”

“I’m not on any social media.” He regretted the admission when it was met with a series of groans.

“Get with the program, man. How are we supposed to live vicariously through you if you don’t tell us anything?”

“I’ll do better,” he said. “Be sure I get your number before you leave.”

Dawn came in with a big smile. “Surprise!”

“I’m going to get you,” he said. “But thanks for an awesome day. And this. I know you were in cahoots with Mom. This is great. It’s awesome to see everyone.”

“I hoped it would be. Hey, I’m dying of thirst. I’m going to grab something. What do you want?”

“Bottle of water for starters. Thanks.” Three six-foot tables were covered in black tablecloths on the other side of the barn. Food was spread out like a potluck. Nice of everyone to chip in on no notice.

Then, as he scanned to the right, he noticed the beautiful display of desserts. Trays of pastries, cupcakes on a three-tier tower, and cakes on raised cake plates like the ones the Main Street Diner used. “I can’t believe this.”

Dawn brought him a bottle of water.

Behind that table, Kelly stood there staring at him with those chocolate-brown eyes.

The ruckus seemed to fall away as he focused in on her.

“What is she doing here?”

“I ordered desserts from her,” Dawn said. “Besides, you can’t come home and not see Kelly.”

“She hates me. I’m sure I’m the last person she wants to see.”

Dawn shrugged. “She’s here, isn’t she?” Then she whisked away.

Kelly hadn’t changed a bit. Wearing a crisp white blouse under a fancy black-and-white apron, her dark hair hung down past her shoulders. Stacking bracelets on her left arm jingled as she dropped her gaze and began to nervously fuss with the cupcakes.

He moved toward her, but his cousin caught him by the elbow. “I was shocked when your mom called and said you were in town for a couple of days. How’ve you been?”

“Great.” He turned back toward Kelly. Each time he laid eyes on her, the pull was stronger, even though she looked like she was ready to run. “Terrific. It’s great to see you, cuz. Umm, I need to grab something. I’ll be right back.”

He headed straight toward Kelly. The noise around him couldn’t drown out the thud of his heart.