Chapter 15
Rose Petal Lane was decorated from top to bottom for Valentine’s Day, with garlands and love hearts, roses and red and pink bows, and a large table where people could make friendship bracelets on the green across from the pub.
All the shops were open, and the tearoom had tables and chairs outside for the mild February day.
Cookie had a table set up under a pergola on the green, offering free tarot card love readings, and Jaxson was handing out leaflets to visitors enjoying the festivity, letting them know what was available in the area.
The whole of Butterbrook was determined to make their village the best it could be, and now that Lady Vic was back in place, there was no more talk of bad luck.
Iris had her photo taken with Rocco in front of a large heart made of roses on the green, then asked if he wanted a love reading.
Rocco popped a piece of chocolate in her mouth as he shook his head. ‘I think we’ll guide ourselves, love.’
Samantha came out of the pub, ringing a brass hand bell. ‘We came second,’ she yelled. ‘News just in. Second place in the Winter Star award.’
Some people groaned, while others accepted the chipped statue at Crescent Park was to blame, as all else about the village had been clean and tidy. Reg had even made sure the noticeboard outside the police hub was up to date, as even that was judged.
‘We’ll get the Summer Shine award,’ bellowed Cookie, who didn’t need a bell to get attention. ‘Butterbrook isn’t done yet.’ She received a round of applause, bowed to her audience, then went back to reading the cards.
Rocco swung his arm around Iris and kissed the side of her head. ‘I’m looking forward to summer already.’
‘So you can see me in my summer dresses?’
He laughed. ‘I prefer you without clothes.’
She nudged him, then motioned over the road as Joel came out of his shop. ‘Let’s hope whatever he’s creating in there doesn’t spoil the street.’
‘Coffee shop, I thought?’
‘Yes, but look around. All our shops are quaint and match the style of the area.’ She wrinkled her nose. ‘Not sure some modern coffee shop fits.’
Rocco perused the street, taking a moment to study some of the shops. ‘Didn’t you say Joel grew up here? I’m sure he knows what he’s doing.’
‘I guess we’ll find out soon.’
‘Meanwhile.’ He snuggled her into him and kissed her cheek.
Iris grinned. ‘Meanwhile what?’
‘Meanwhile, let’s buy some more chocolate and head home.’
‘Sounds like a good idea.’
Rocco smiled over his shoulder as he strolled along with Iris. Had someone told him Butterbrook would hold such happiness, he was certain he would have arrived years ago, especially if it meant he got to meet Iris sooner.
She gazed his way, unable to stop smiling at him. ‘What are you thinking?’
‘Apart from how much I love you, I was just counting my blessings.’
Iris gave his waist a little squeeze. ‘I’m so glad you found me, Rocco.’
He winked, then kissed her lips. ‘The way I see it, we were always going to meet. It was just a matter of when.’
‘Soulmates and destiny.’
He kissed her once more, bursting with love. ‘And this is just the beginning.’