Chapter 12
Amelia
The days and weeks flew by as I threw myself into working at the Inn. To introduce the community to our new reception hall, I coordinated a county-wide Christmas dance, and tonight was the big day. If things went well, word of mouth would spread like wildfire to make this the destination for all big events.
The anticipation bubbled within me as I stood in the festively decorated hallway of the Maple Tree Inn, my fingers tapping nervously on the screen of my phone. Checking for any last-minute updates or messages regarding the community-wide Christmas dance had become a habit over the past few days. I was determined to make sure everything went smoothly tonight.
“Amelia, this place looks absolutely enchanting!” Sydney gushed, entering the room with an excited sparkle in her green eyes. Her eight-month pregnant belly led the way, making it impossible not to notice how close she was to her due date.
“Thank you,” I replied, managing a genuine smile despite my nerves. “I just want everyone to have a good time.”
“Darlin', they will. Trust me,” Julia chimed in, joining us in the hallway. The Southern twang in her voice always brought a sense of warmth and comfort. “Besides, I've got some fantastic news. I had that letter about the gifted land authenticated, and it's true! That Sam Finnegan doesn’t have a case, after all.”
“Really? That's wonderful!” Sydney beamed, her face glowing with happiness.
“Ted's going to love hearing that.” I chuckled, momentarily forgetting my anxiety about the dance.
“Speaking of Ted,” Julia continued. “I dropped off a copy of the authentication and an invitation to the dance to soften the blow.”
“Good idea,” I agreed, trying to sound casual, but my heartbeat quickened at the thought of seeing him again. Since moving into the Inn, I hadn’t seen him since the rescue and almost kiss. The distance between us was stifling, and I didn’t have the courage to walk up to him and ask him how he felt. If he even felt anything for me.
The excitement of the good news was quickly replaced by a wave of anxiety. Not only did the dance need to go off without a hitch, but I also needed to figure out my next steps in finding a long-term job. The holiday season had offered me temporary work, but I couldn't rely on that lasting forever. Tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear, I took a deep breath.
“Ames, don't worry about all that right now,” Sydney said, sensing my sudden shift in focus. “Tonight is about having fun and celebrating our accomplishments.” She stooped down and whispered. “Besides, he might not even show up.”
“Sydney's right,” Julia agreed, her eyes twinkling with kindness. “You've done a fantastic job organizing this event. It’s going to be a huge success. Cookie even said she’d bring some of her amazing Maple Caramel Apple pie for dessert.”
“Thanks, guys,” I replied, managing a grateful smile. Their support meant the world to me, but I couldn't shake the feeling that everything hung in the balance tonight. Not just the success of the dance, but my chance at seeing Ted again and maybe clearing the air between us.
Later that evening, the barn reception area at the Maple Tree Inn was transformed into a winter wonderland, filled with the warm glow of twinkling lights and the scent of cinnamon-spiced cider. Laughter and lively conversation echoed while couples swayed to the soft melodies of classic holiday tunes. Snowflakes gently fell outside, casting a magical atmosphere over the entire event.
I moved through the crowd, making sure everyone had what they needed and addressing any concerns. Everything had come along perfectly. The decorations were stunning, the food was delicious, and the guests seemed genuinely happy. All the hard work had paid off. I even had several guests asks how much it cost to rent out for an event.
But amidst the celebration, my thoughts kept drifting back to Ted. Would he show up tonight? Would we finally have a chance to talk, or would the evening pass by without a word exchanged between us? The uncertainty gnawed at me.
“Aunt Amy,” Leah called out, her voice barely audible over the music and chatter. “It’s magical. You did a great job.”
“Thank you,” I replied, trying to focus on her words instead of my growing apprehension. “I'm just glad everyone's having a good time.” The boy from the animal rescue waved her over. She blushed slightly and then casually walked over to him. My heart swelled. First love was so adorable.
As the night wore on, I couldn't help but steal glances at the entrance, looking for any sign of Ted. Despite my best efforts to stay in the moment and enjoy the festivities, the fact that he hadn't shown up yet weighed heavily on my heart.
I approached a group of guests near the punch bowl, laughing and chatting away. Their faces were flushed with joy, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment.
“Amelia, this is divine!” Mrs. Wittaker exclaimed, taking a sip from her cup. “What's your secret?”
“Thank you, Mrs. Wittaker,” I replied, my chest swelling with pride. “The secret ingredient is a touch of cranberry extract.”
“Ah, that's what it is!” She grinned, taking another sip before joining a group of friends on the dance floor. She owned the historic 1920s hotel and only other lodging in Starfall Creek. Her opinion held weight in the community. Maybe I could impress her with my marketing skills and take her on as a client in the future.
I continued to weave through the crowd, catching glimpses of Sydney and Blake sharing a sweet moment over by the dessert table. Sydney's hand gently cradled her swollen belly while Blake whispered something in her ear, making her laugh. It warmed my heart to see them so happy together.
Across the room, Julia and my dad danced gracefully to the soft melodies of the band. Their love seemed to fill the air, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the evening.
“Amelia, do you know where I can find more of these delightful gingerbread cookies?” an elderly gentleman asked, interrupting my thoughts.
"Of course,” I replied, guiding him towards the buffet table. “Right over here.”
As we walked, my eyes drifted back to the entrance, searching for any sign of Ted. The clock was ticking, and my anxiety grew with each passing minute.
“Thank you, Amelia,” the man said.
“You're welcome. Enjoy!” I smiled at him before returning to my duties as hostess.
“Amelia,” Blake called, catching my attention as he approached. "We're running low on apple cider. Can you—”
“Sure thing.” I cut him off, eager for a distraction. “I'll take care of it.”
As I hurried to the kitchen, the weight of Ted's absence pressed down on me like a lead blanket. Why hadn't he shown up? Was he avoiding me?
“Amelia!” Julia called out as I passed her table. "Have you seen David's keys? We can't seem to find them anywhere."
“Um, no, but I'll help you look once I grab some more hot apple cider,” I replied, forcing a smile onto my face.
“Thank you, dear.” She smiled gratefully.
With each task and interaction, the gnawing feeling in my chest grew stronger. Time was slipping away, and Ted still hadn't arrived. My heart raced with anticipation, fear, and disappointment all tangled together.
Then, just as I stepped outside to fetch the cider from the kitchen, I caught sight of a familiar figure making his way toward the Inn. As he approached, my breath caught in my throat.
It was Ted—and he looked nervous.