When You Least Expect It

35

a/n don't forget to vote/comment xo also I'm on semester break so hopefully faster updates

Chapter 35

A chime jingled over the store door as someone entered. Glancing up from the counter I was dusting, I smiled at the unfamiliar face. Must be someone just passing through town.

"Hey there," he said, his voice a warm rumble.

"Hi there," I said. "Can I help you find anything?"

"Not exactly. Just passing through, taking a break from the cold." His gaze swept across the cluttered shelves and overflowing display cases. So, I was right.

We fell into an easy conversation, the man—who introduced himself as Brian—asked about the local lore of the town. He also mentioned his son, a high school graduate set to become a Marine.

"You seem like a bright young lady," he said. "What are you planning on doing with yourself after graduation?"

"I'm saving up to go to college. I want to study arts."

"Art?" he said, his voice flat. "That's a tough field. Ever thought about what you might do with that degree?"

"I'm hoping to open up an art gallery someday in the future." My face felt warm. "I don't know, I'll see."

"Well, then you'll have to leave. There's nothing for you here," he said, almost apologetic. "You wouldn't find a single art school within a hundred miles, let alone a decent gallery."

The enthusiasm that had been bubbling over moments ago began to evaporate, and my heart sank. Brian's words were harsh, but they held a kernel of truth. There were no opportunities for me here.

I went silent as Brian headed to the refrigerators towards the back. A moment later, the chime of the shop bell pierced the sudden quiet. The door creaked open, and Carson hurried in, his cheeks rosy from the cold. He flashed me a quick smile and gave Brian a friendly nod.

"Afternoon, sir," he greeted. Today was Carson's first shift at the store, and so far, he'd been punctual.

Brian tipped his Stetson at us, then turned and walked out into the afternoon sun.

Carson stopped in front of me, his gaze lingering for a moment before he leaned down. The brush of his lips against mine was soft and sweet, the taste reminding me of crisp apples. "Missed you today."

No Brian, I wanted to say. You're wrong. I do have something for me here.

.・゜゜・ ・゜゜・．

Friday night buzzed with a different kind of energy. Ilya had extended an invite for karaoke night at The Grill, the town's only bar and grill.

Ilya, visiting for the weekend, swung by the store to pick us both up after our shifts, and Carson crammed into the passenger seat while I sat in the middle.

"Just a heads-up, Ilya," I said, trying to stifle a laugh. "I've heard your singing voice before, and..."

"Hey! I'll have you know I can hold a tune perfectly well."

Caught up in the back-and-forth with Ilya, I almost missed it—Carson's silence. I couldn't see his face, but his posture was stiff. He didn't seem too enthusiastic about our hangout, and it crushed me, because at the time, I was looking forward to hanging out with him and Ilya.