Sand Dollar Cafe

Of Lobster Traps and Meet-Cutes

The small town of Cedarport, Maine, wasn’t the kind of place that featured in glossy travel magazines or fancy postcards. It wasn’t glamorous or particularly exciting. But there was something about it something in the way the sea mist clung to the weathered shingles of the homes, in the sound of distant seagulls calling across the harbor. It was a place for people who needed space to breathe, away from the city’s relentless pulse.

Leah Morgan was one of those people.

She stepped out of her rusted Subaru and looked up at the crooked building she’d just bought, The Sand Dollar. It wasn’t much to look at right now. The paint was peeling, the windows needed a good scrub, and the roof, well, she didn’t want to think too hard about the roof just yet. But it was hers. A fresh start in a town that was at once unfamiliar and nostalgic, like a memory that wasn’t quite hers.

The café had been a staple in Cedarport for years, but it had closed down when the previous owner moved to Florida. Leah had spent summers in this town as a kid and remembered sneaking in here with her cousins for ice cream. The thought of reopening it under her name, giving it a second life, filled her with a strange mix of excitement and dread.

She tugged at the scarf around her neck and sighed, wondering if she was truly ready for this.

Just as she was about to head inside, a loud thud echoed from across the street, followed by a muffled curse. Leah turned, startled, and spotted a man standing beside a battered old pickup truck. He had his hands full with what looked like lobster traps and some unruly netting that didn’t seem to want to cooperate. The man yanked at the net, clearly frustrated as it caught on one of the metal bars, refusing to budge.

Leah couldn’t help but smile. It was the kind of classic, small-town scenario she had expected, and yet seeing it unfold in real-time was oddly charming.

“Need some help?” she called across the street, her voice light, though she was half expecting him to brush her off. Men with lobster traps usually had their systems, even if it didn’t look like it.

The man looked up, a mixture of surprise and amusement flashing across his face. He was around her age, early thirties perhaps, with messy brown hair that fell in a tousled wave over his forehead. His eyes were a deep, striking blue that contrasted sharply with the ruggedness of his attire. He wore a flannel shirt, rolled up at the sleeves, and faded jeans that looked like they’d been through years of hard work. Something about his laid-back look told her he belonged in this town in a way she was still figuring out how to.

“If you’ve got a secret to untangling this mess, I’m all ears,” he replied with a half-smile, clearly more amused by the situation than irritated.

Leah crossed the street, her boots scuffing against the uneven pavement, and came to stand beside him. Up close, she could see the intricate mess the net had made, caught up in the trap’s metal claws.

“Let me take a crack at it,” she said, crouching down and starting to pull at the tangled threads. “I spent enough summers on the docks here that I’m practically a pro at this.”

“Is that right?” he said, leaning against the truck, arms folded across his chest as he watched her. “I don’t remember seeing you around.”

Leah laughed softly, working at a particularly stubborn knot. “I was the one with braces and the bad haircut. My aunt and uncle own the hardware store down on Harbor Street. We spent every summer here when I was a kid.”

“Ah,” he said, nodding in recognition. “The Morgans. That explains why you look familiar. I’m Caleb Sullivan, by the way. I run Sullivan Charters down by the pier.”

Leah paused, looking up at him. His name sounded vaguely familiar, though she couldn’t quite place it. But it didn’t matter. In a town this small, you were bound to run into the same people sooner or later.

“Leah Morgan,” she replied with a smile. “And I guess I’m your new neighbor, sort of. I just bought The Sand Dollar. I’m going to turn it into a café.”

Caleb raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “You’ve got your work cut out for you with that place. It’s been empty for years.”

“Yeah, tell me about it,” Leah muttered, tugging harder at the net. “But I like a challenge. Besides, it’s not every day you get a chance to start over.”

Caleb’s expression softened, a hint of understanding in his eyes. “I get that. This town’s good for starting fresh if you can put up with the tourists and the gossip.”

Leah chuckled, finally freeing the last bit of net and handing it to him. “I can handle tourists. Gossip, on the other hand… I’m still working on.”

“Gossip is Cedarport’s number one export, besides lobster,” Caleb said with a grin. “Everyone knows everyone’s business, even before you do. But you’ll get used to it. Just smile and pretend you didn’t hear your name three times before breakfast.”

Leah laughed, dusting off her hands and stepping back from the truck. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

As Caleb secured the net in place, Leah couldn’t help but notice how comfortable he seemed in his own skin, how easygoing his demeanor was despite the obvious stress of running a business in a small town. He had that kind of effortless charm that put people at ease, and she found herself smiling more than she had in days.

“So,” Caleb said, turning back to her once he’d finished, “when’s this café of yours opening?”

Leah sighed, glancing back at The Sand Dollar. “That’s the million-dollar question. There’s still a ton of work to do; painting, replacing some of the furniture, cleaning, everything, basically. I’m hoping to have it open by the start of summer. If I’m lucky.”

Caleb nodded thoughtfully. “If you need help, let me know. I’m not much for painting, but I can carry heavy stuff and move furniture like nobody’s business.”

“Is that your sales pitch for why I should hire you?” she teased.

“Only if it worked,” he shot back with a playful wink.

Leah grinned, feeling a warmth spread through her that had nothing to do with the sunlight streaming down on them. “I’ll keep you in mind, Caleb Sullivan.”

“You do that,” he said, giving her a nod before climbing into his truck. “And if you’re ever in need of a strong cup of coffee or a friendly chat, don’t hesitate to stop by the charter. We’ve got both.”

With that, he pulled out of the lot and drove off, leaving Leah standing on the sidewalk, still smiling to herself.

She shook her head, glancing back at her café with renewed determination. The town might be small, but it had a way of feeling bigger when you least expected it. And Caleb Sullivan, with his lobster traps and easy smile, might just be the start of something unexpected, both for her and for The Sand Dollar.

Chapter 2: Coffee Beans and Complications

Leah stared at the paint samples fanned out across the counter, her head already aching from the endless shades of blue. Who knew there could be so many? Navy, sky, ocean mist, midnight, They all blurred together after a while, making it nearly impossible to decide which one would look best on the walls of The Sand Dollar.

“You should go with the deep blue,” came a voice from behind her.

Leah jumped, nearly knocking over the stack of color swatches. She turned to see a woman leaning casually against the doorframe, arms crossed and a knowing smile on her face. Her long, sandy blonde hair was swept back in a loose braid, and she was dressed in layers that screamed ‘coastal chic.’ The kind of effortless style Leah had never quite mastered.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you,” the woman said, pushing off the doorframe and stepping inside. “I was walking by and noticed you looked like you were about to lose a battle with paint samples. Thought I’d intervene before it got ugly.”

Leah chuckled, relieved by the lighthearted intrusion. “I’m pretty sure this decision is going to haunt me either way,” she said, glancing back down at the samples. “Deep blue, huh? That’s bold.”

“Bold is good,” the woman replied, leaning over the counter to inspect the colors. “Plus, it’ll make this place feel cozy, especially during the off-season when everything in Cedarport goes quiet. You’ll need that sense of warmth to keep people coming in.”

Leah raised an eyebrow, impressed. “You sound like you’ve done this before.”

“I have,” the woman said with a grin. “Several times, actually. I’m Anna, by the way. Anna MacAllister. I run the bed-and-breakfast down the street, Harbor View Inn.”

“Oh!” Leah exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. “I’ve heard of that place. My aunt and uncle used to talk about it all the time. They said it was the best-kept secret in town.”

Anna laughed, waving a hand dismissively. “They’re sweet for saying that, but it’s hardly a secret anymore. Tourists find their way to it, and now it’s booked solid most of the summer. But don’t worry, we still get our peace and quiet in the fall when everyone heads back home.”

“Lucky you,” Leah said with a sigh. “I’m still figuring out if I’ll even be able to get this place open by the start of summer.”

Anna tilted her head thoughtfully. “You’re planning a summer opening? That’s ambitious. Do you have help?”

“Sort of?” Leah replied, unsure of how to answer. “I’ve been doing most of the prep work myself. Some painting, cleaning, fixing up the furniture. Caleb Sullivan offered to help, though I’m not sure if that was a serious offer or just a ‘hey, let’s be neighborly’ thing.”

Anna’s face lit up at the mention of Caleb. “Oh, Caleb definitely meant it. He’s like that. Always offering a hand even when he’s busy with his charters. He’s a good guy. People around here rely on him more than they let on.”

Leah noticed the slight glint of mischief in Anna’s eyes, and couldn’t help but smile. “I take it you know him well?”

Anna shrugged. “We grew up together. Cedarport is the kind of place where you either love or hate everyone by the time you’re in your twenties. Caleb and I fall somewhere in the middle. We get along just fine, but we bicker like siblings sometimes.”

“Sounds complicated,” Leah said with a laugh, shuffling the paint samples into a pile. “Well, if his offer was genuine, maybe I’ll take him up on it. There’s more to do than I realized, and I haven’t even gotten around to ordering the coffee beans yet.”

Anna gasped dramatically, clutching her chest in mock horror. “You haven’t ordered coffee beans? In a town this size, coffee is a life force. Forget everything else, that should be priority number one!”

Leah couldn’t help but laugh at Anna’s playful theatrics. “I’ll get to it, I promise. I’ve just been a little overwhelmed with everything else.”

Anna stepped forward, resting a hand on Leah’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. You’ll get the hang of it. Small town life has a way of slowing you down, whether you want it to or not. Things will fall into place.”

Leah smiled, grateful for the encouragement. “Thanks. I could definitely use the vote of confidence.”

“No problem,” Anna said, giving her a warm smile. “And if you need any tips on running a business in this town, come find me at Harbor View. I’ve learned a few things over the years, like when to avoid the town busybodies and when to charm them into becoming your biggest fans.”

Leah chimed in, "I might take you up on that.”

“Good,” Anna said, turning to leave. “Now, go with the deep blue. You’ll thank me later.”

With a wave, she disappeared through the door, leaving Leah alone again with her color samples and a fresh burst of energy. Deep blue. Bold. She liked that idea.

Later that afternoon, Leah found herself covered in specks of paint. Her hair was tied in a messy knot on top of her head, and she had swapped her nice jeans for old, paint-splattered overalls she hadn’t worn since college. She stood in the middle of the café, roller in hand, surveying the first coat of deep blue paint covering the once-dull walls. It was a transformation, all right. The room was starting to feel more like her vision. A warm, welcoming space where people could escape the cold winds and sip on coffee by the fire.

As she stepped back to admire her work, a loud knock echoed through the space. Leah turned to see Caleb standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame with his usual relaxed posture. His brown hair was wind swept, and his flannel shirt looked like it had been worn for a week straight, classic fisherman chic.

“You weren’t kidding when you said you were doing this yourself,” Caleb said with a grin, nodding toward her paint roller. “Nice color, by the way. Bold.”

Leah snorted, crossing her arms. “Okay, did everyone in town conspire to tell me this was a good idea?”

“Maybe,” he teased. “But I have to admit, it looks good. You’ve got an eye for this kind of thing.”

She couldn’t help but feel a small thrill at the compliment. “Thanks. I was starting to think I’d gone crazy, tackling all of this on my own.”

Caleb stepped into the café, his gaze sweeping across the room. “You’re not crazy. Ambitious, maybe, but not crazy. It takes guts to pull something like this off.”

Leah smiled, feeling a little lighter. There was something about Caleb’s presence that made her feel grounded, like everything might actually work out.

“So,” he said, turning back to her. “What’s next on the list?”

Leah groaned, running a hand through her hair, which only made it messier. “Where do I start? There’s furniture to be refinished, a leaky faucet in the back, and a thousand other things I haven’t even discovered yet. Oh, and I still need to order the coffee beans, which, according to Anna, is the most important task of all.”

Caleb chuckled. “She’s not wrong. People around here take their coffee seriously.”

“I’m starting to realize that,” Leah said, shaking her head. “I’m open to suggestions if you know where I can get the best beans.”

“I might know a guy,” Caleb said with a wink. “I’ll put you in touch. But seriously, if you need help with the heavy lifting, I’ve got some free time over the next few days.”

Leah hesitated for a moment, tempted to say no out of pride, but she knew she needed the help. And besides, Caleb seemed like the type who wouldn’t take no for an answer if he really wanted to pitch in.

“All right,” she said, flashing him a grin. “I’ll take you up on that. But only if you promise not to judge my amateur carpentry skills.”

“No promises,” Caleb said, his blue eyes sparkling with amusement. “But I’ll be gentle.”

Chapter 3: Good Intentions, Crooked Tables

The smell of fresh coffee grounds filled the air, blending with the lingering scent of fresh paint. Leah took a deep breath and smiled. For the first time in weeks, The Sand Dollar was starting to feel like a real café rather than an abandoned wreck. The deep blue walls made the space feel intimate and cozy, and the vintage furniture she’d scored at a nearby antique store added the perfect touch of charm.

There was just one problem: the tables.

“Are you sure this is level?” Leah asked, crouching down to eye the small wooden table she’d just spent the last hour trying to balance.

Caleb, kneeling on the opposite side, was holding a small level against the surface, his brow furrowed in concentration. “Well, it’s as level as this floor is ever going to allow. These old buildings have their quirks. It adds character.”

Leah sighed, standing up and wiping her hands on her jeans. “I was going for cozy, not lopsided.”

“Hey, cozy and lopsided can coexist,” Caleb said with a grin, pushing himself up from the floor. “Besides, no one’s going to notice once you’ve got coffee and pastries on the table. People get pretty forgiving when they’ve got caffeine in hand.”

Leah laughed despite herself. “I guess you have a point. If anyone’s that picky, I’ll just bribe them with extra sugar.”

“That’s the spirit.” Caleb wiped his hands on a rag and glanced around the room. “You’re really pulling this place together. It looks great.”

Leah smiled, feeling a warmth bloom in her chest at his words. It wasn’t that she needed the validation, but hearing it from someone else, especially someone like Caleb, made her feel like maybe, just maybe, she was on the right track.

“I couldn’t have done it without your help,” she admitted, gesturing to the tables they’d spent the afternoon moving, sanding, and refinishing. “Seriously, you’ve saved me so many times already.”

Caleb waved a hand dismissively. “It’s no big deal. Besides, I like having something to do in the off season. Fishing slows down this time of year, and if I don’t stay busy, I end up spending too much time at The Rusty Anchor.”

Leah chuckled at the mention of Cedarport’s one and only bar. It was the kind of place where the locals gathered, more out of habit than for the quality of the drinks. She’d passed by it a few times but hadn’t worked up the nerve to go in yet.

“Yeah, I’ve heard stories about that place,” she said, raising an eyebrow. “Is it as bad as they say?”

“Depends on who you ask,” Caleb replied with a wink. “If you’re looking for a quiet night with good conversation, maybe not. But if you’re in the mood to play darts with some fishermen and hear tall tales about the one that got away, it’s the place to be.”

Leah smirked. “I’ll keep that in mind. I might need a drink after opening this place.”

“Speaking of opening,” Caleb said, leaning against one of the newly refinished tables, “have you set a date yet? I know you’ve been aiming for summer, but that’s only a couple of weeks away.”

Leah’s stomach tightened at the reminder. “I know, I know. I keep telling myself I’ll be ready, but there’s so much left to do. I still need to get a final health inspection, and the menu isn’t even finalized yet. Not to mention, I have no idea how to price anything without scaring off the locals but still covering costs.”

Caleb gave her a sympathetic look. “I’ve been there. Setting up a business isn’t easy, but you’ve got the right instincts. Don’t worry too much about perfection. Once you open, you’ll figure out what works.”

Leah nodded, trying to take comfort in his words. But the truth was, she wasn’t used to leaving things up to chance. In Boston, her job as a marketing consultant had been all about precision and control, every strategy carefully planned and executed. But here, in Cedarport, there was no manual, no team of experts to help her. It was just her, a dream, and a few supportive friends she’d barely known a month.

The thought was both thrilling and terrifying.

As if sensing her thoughts, Caleb stood up straight and gave her a reassuring smile. “You’re going to be fine, Leah. And if you need a taste tester for that menu, I’m your guy. I’ll eat just about anything, so no pressure.”

Leah laughed, feeling the knot in her chest loosen slightly. “I’ll hold you to that. But don’t blame me if you end up eating three-day-old muffins.”

“Three days? Amateur,” Caleb said, shaking his head. “I’ve eaten worse out on the boat. Trust me, your muffins will be a gourmet experience compared to what I’ve had to survive on.”

Leah grinned, grateful for the lightness Caleb brought to the conversation. He had a way of making her feel at ease, even when her mind was spiraling with worry.

“Well, I’ll have to make sure to raise the bar then,” she teased. “I can’t have my café’s reputation resting on mediocre muffins.”

“Exactly,” Caleb said, stepping back toward the door. “Speaking of food, though, have you figured out what you’re going to offer besides coffee and baked goods? People around here like variety.”

Leah frowned, leaning against the counter. “I’ve been thinking about adding some sandwiches or soups, something simple but hearty. I want it to feel like a place people can come to at any time of day. Not just a morning coffee stop.”

Caleb nodded approvingly. “That’s a good call. You’ll get a lot of traffic during lunch, especially from the locals who work on the docks or in the shops nearby. They’ll appreciate something they can grab and go.”

Leah scribbled down a note on a nearby pad of paper. “I’ll add it to my growing list of things to figure out. Who knew opening a café involved so many decisions?”

“Welcome to the wonderful world of small business ownership,” Caleb said with a grin. “But if anyone can pull it off, it’s you. You’ve got the right mix of vision and determination.”

Leah felt her cheeks flush slightly at his praise, though she quickly brushed it off with a playful smirk. “Careful, Caleb. Keep complimenting me, and I might start to believe you.”

He chuckled, opening the door to leave. “I’m just calling it like I see it. Anyway, I’ll let you get back to work. But don’t hesitate to holler if you need more help.”

“Thanks,” Leah said, genuinely touched by his offer. “I mean it. I really appreciate everything you’ve done.”

“Anytime,” Caleb said, giving her a quick wave before disappearing through the door.

As the door clicked shut behind him, Leah let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding. Caleb’s support had been invaluable, but it wasn’t just his help that had her feeling off balance. It was the way he seemed to understand her without needing an explanation, the way he could lighten the mood with just a few words. She wasn’t sure if it was because they were both in their early thirties, navigating life’s curveballs, or if there was something else brewing between them. Something unspoken but undeniable.

Shaking her head, Leah turned back to the task at hand. She couldn’t afford to get distracted. Not with so much left to do before the café’s opening. The last thing she needed was to complicate things with feelings she hadn’t even sorted through yet.

But as she glanced around the space, the tables now perfectly positioned (if not entirely level), and the walls freshly painted, she couldn’t help but feel like something was falling into place. It wasn’t just the café. It was everything. Cedarport, her new friends, and yes, maybe even Caleb.

Maybe, just maybe, she was exactly where she was supposed to be.

Chapter 4: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

The early summer sun hung lazily in the sky, casting long shadows across Cedarport’s narrow streets. Leah stood outside The Sand Dollar, hands on her hips, and surveyed the newly installed window decals. They were simple, just the café’s name in elegant, looping letters above a small illustration of a sand dollar, but seeing them there made everything feel more real. Her café. Her dream. Her shot at starting over.

She smiled, even though the weight of what still needed to be done pressed heavily on her shoulders. The soft thrum of waves hitting the nearby shore was comforting, a reminder that this town, though sleepy, had its own rhythm. A slower one, but steady. She could get used to it. In fact, she already had.

Her phone buzzed in her pocket, pulling her from her thoughts. Leah fished it out and glanced at the screen. It was a text from Anna.

Anna: Lunch at The Rusty Anchor? You look like you need a break.

Leah smiled and glanced across the street at the Harbor View Inn, where Anna’s cheery figure was leaning out of one of the second floor windows, waving like they were across a field and not a narrow road. Leah waved back.

Leah: I’m covered in paint. Rain check?

Anna: You’re always covered in paint. I’ll be there in 10. Don’t argue.

Leah sighed, knowing better than to fight Anna when she had made up her mind. As promised, Anna appeared a few minutes later, sauntering through the café’s door with a bag slung over her shoulder. “Come on, you need a break. You’ve been in here for hours, haven’t you?”

“I’m fine, really,” Leah said, though she could feel the stiffness in her neck and shoulders from bending over tables and shelves all morning.

“Fine?” Anna raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been running yourself into the ground. You need food. And maybe a beer. Or three.”

Leah chuckled. “I’ll take a burger. Hold the beer, though.”

Anna grabbed her arm and tugged her toward the door. “Come on, before you change your mind.”

The Rusty Anchor was busier than Leah expected for a weekday afternoon. Locals filled the bar, sharing stories over drinks, and a handful of tourists lingered in booths by the windows, probably passing through on their way to Portland or some other coastal destination. Cedarport wasn’t exactly a tourist hotspot, but every now and then, someone discovered it.

They found a booth in the back corner, the seat cracked with age and comfort. Leah slid in across from Anna, who immediately flagged down the bartender with two fingers. “Two burgers,” she called out, “and fries!”

“You didn’t even ask what I wanted,” Leah said, amused.

“I already know what you want,” Anna replied, giving her a teasing smile. “You always get the same thing.”

Leah smirked. “Okay, fair.”

“Besides,” Anna said, leaning back against the booth, “you’ll need the energy. The grand opening’s, what, a week away?”

Leah’s stomach knotted at the reminder. “Nine days.”

Anna raised an eyebrow, her expression somewhere between impressed and worried. “How are you feeling about it?”

“I’m excited,” Leah said quickly. Too quickly. She noticed Anna’s look and sighed. “Okay, maybe I’m also a little terrified. There’s still so much to do, and I can’t shake this feeling that something’s going to go wrong.”

“Like what?” Anna asked, leaning forward slightly. “Everything seems to be coming together. You’ve got the place looking fantastic. Caleb’s helping with the furniture and the heavy stuff, right? What else is there?”

Leah bit her lip, trying to put her worry into words. “I don’t know. Maybe it’s just fear of failure? What if I open and no one shows up? Or worse—what if they do show up, but the café flops? I’ve poured everything into this, Anna. What if it’s not enough?”

Anna’s expression softened, and she reached across the table to squeeze Leah’s hand. “Hey, I get it. But trust me, you’re overthinking it. The town is buzzing about the café opening, and not just because it’s new. People like you, Leah. You’ve already made an impression, and once the doors open, they’ll support you.”

Leah smiled, though she wasn’t entirely convinced. “I hope you’re right.”

“I am right,” Anna said, leaning back as the burgers arrived. “Now, enough with the self-doubt. Let’s talk about something more fun. Like Caleb.”

Leah groaned, picking up a fry and shaking her head. “What about Caleb?”

Anna grinned wickedly. “Oh, come on. Don’t act like I didn’t see the two of you looking all cozy together while you were fixing up the café last week.”

Leah’s face flushed instantly. “It wasn’t like that. He was just helping me with the tables. They were wobbly.”

Anna snorted. “Yeah, I’m sure that’s all it was. I’ve known Caleb my whole life. He doesn’t go out of his way to help people unless he likes them. And I don’t just mean as friends.”

Leah took a bite of her burger, chewing slowly as she tried to decide how much to say. The truth was, she hadn’t stopped thinking about Caleb since that first day with the lobster traps. He had a way of making her feel both at ease and completely off-balance at the same time. His laid back charm was disarming, but there was more to him than that. She could see it in the way he listened, the way he showed up when she needed help without making a big deal of it.

But what did that mean? Was there something between them, or was she just reading too much into their easy camaraderie?

“He’s, nice,” Leah said, trying to sound casual. “He’s been great, helping with the café and everything. But I don’t think it’s anything more than that. We’re just friends.”

Anna gave her a look. “Uh-huh. Friends.”

“What?” Leah asked, raising an eyebrow. “We are.”

Anna shrugged. “Okay, sure. But if you ask me, Caleb sees it differently. You should talk to him. You might be surprised.”

Leah shook her head, taking another bite of her burger to avoid responding. The last thing she needed was to get tangled up in romantic complications while trying to launch a business. Caleb was a friend, nothing more. Besides, even if she did like him (and she wasn’t ready to admit that to anyone, least of all herself), she wasn’t sure she was ready for that kind of distraction.

Still, Anna’s words lingered in her mind long after they left The Rusty Anchor and Leah returned to the café. The evening light was soft, casting a warm glow across the room as she sat on the floor, surrounded by receipts and inventory lists. She tried to focus on the numbers, but her thoughts kept drifting to Caleb. His easy smile, his blue eyes crinkling at the corners when he teased her, the way his hand had briefly brushed against hers while they were sanding one of the tables.

Leah groaned, dropping the pencil and leaning back against the wall. What was she doing? She had too much on her plate already. The last thing she needed was to start overthinking a few friendly interactions.

Just as she was convincing herself to get back to work, there was a knock at the door. Leah’s heart skipped a beat, and she knew before she even looked up that it was Caleb.

“Hey,” he said, poking his head through the door with that familiar, crooked grin. “You busy?”

Leah smiled despite herself. “Depends. What’s the favor?”

Caleb laughed, stepping inside and closing the door behind him. “No favor this time. I was just wondering if you wanted to go for a walk. The sunset’s perfect tonight, and you’ve been cooped up in here all day.”

Leah hesitated for a moment, glancing at the pile of paperwork. But the promise of fresh air and the undeniable pull of Caleb’s easy charm won out.

“All right,” she said, standing up and brushing off her jeans. “A quick walk. But I can’t stay out long. There’s too much to do.”

Caleb raised his hands in surrender. “I promise I’ll have you back before midnight, Cinderella.”

Leah laughed, grabbing her jacket as they headed out the door and into the fading light.

Chapter 5: Walking the Line

The sun was hanging low over Cedarport’s horizon, casting a golden hue across the water and softening the rugged edges of the town. Leah walked beside Caleb, her hands tucked into the pockets of her jacket as they made their way along the quiet street that wound down toward the pier. The air smelled of salt and pine, and the steady rhythm of the waves crashing against the rocks was as comforting as a lullaby.

Caleb walked with easy strides beside her, his hands swinging casually at his sides. He hadn’t said much since they left The Sand Dollar, but the silence between them was comfortable, companionable even. Leah had always been someone who felt the need to fill every quiet space with words, but with Caleb, she didn’t feel that pressure. Maybe that was part of why she liked spending time with him.

“You’re quiet tonight,” Caleb finally said, breaking the silence with his gentle, teasing tone. “Everything okay?”

Leah smiled, glancing over at him. “Yeah, just thinking. There’s a lot on my mind, I guess.”

“Is it the café?” Caleb asked, though Leah suspected he already knew the answer.

She nodded, looking down at her shoes as they walked. “It’s just a lot, you know? I’ve been working so hard to get everything ready, but there’s still so much left to do. And part of me keeps worrying that I’m going to mess it up. What if I open and no one comes? What if I picked the wrong town, the wrong time?”

Caleb stopped walking, gently tugging on her elbow so she would turn and face him. His blue eyes met hers, full of warmth and quiet confidence. “Leah, you’re not going to mess this up. Look at everything you’ve done already. The café looks incredible, and you’ve put your heart and soul into it. People are going to see that. They’re going to love it.”

Leah opened her mouth to protest, to argue that she hadn’t done enough, but something in Caleb’s expression stopped her. He wasn’t just saying it to make her feel better. He believed it, really believed it, and somehow that made her heart lighten just a little.

“You really think so?” she asked, her voice softer than she intended.

“I do,” Caleb said, his voice equally gentle. “You’ve got the whole town behind you, Leah. And even if things don’t go perfectly on day one, you’ll figure it out. You always do.”

She let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. “Thanks, Caleb. I really needed to hear that.”

He smiled, that slow, easy smile of his that always made her feel like everything would be okay. “That’s what I’m here for.”

They continued walking, the path narrowing as they reached the docks. The pier stretched out before them, the wooden planks worn smooth by years of saltwater and time. A few fishing boats bobbed gently in the water, their outlines sharp against the fading pinks and purples of the sunset.

Caleb led them to the edge of the pier, where they both leaned against the railing, gazing out at the horizon. The sky was a masterpiece of colors, shifting with every passing moment. For a while, they just stood there, watching the sun dip lower and lower, until it was nothing more than a golden thread on the edge of the world.

“It’s beautiful,” Leah said softly, breaking the silence.

“It is,” Caleb agreed, though when Leah glanced at him, she realized he was looking at her, not the sunset.

Her heart did a strange little flip in her chest, and she quickly looked away, pretending to admire the view again. She wasn’t ready for this. For him. Was she?

“So,” Caleb said after a moment, his tone more playful now, “how’s the famous Leah Morgan holding up in small-town life? Regretting your decision yet?”

Leah snorted, grateful for the shift in tone. “Some days,” she admitted, “but mostly, I think I’m settling in. It’s different from Boston, obviously, but I like the slower pace. I like that people stop and talk to each other. And it’s nice not feeling like I’m in a race all the time, you know?”

Caleb nodded, leaning his elbows on the railing. “I get it. I’ve been in Cedarport my whole life, and I still catch myself wondering if I should’ve gone somewhere bigger. Tried something else. But then I walk down to the pier, see this…” He gestured to the peaceful waters stretching out in front of them. “And I know I’m right where I belong.”

Leah smiled, understanding what he meant. It wasn’t just about the town; it was about finding that place where you felt at home. She hadn’t felt that way in Boston for a long time, but maybe—just maybe—Cedarport could be that place for her.

“I think I’m getting there,” she said quietly. “It’s still new, but it feels right.”

“Good,” Caleb said, his voice softer now. “You deserve that.”

There it was again, that heart flip. Leah glanced over at him, studying the way his jawline caught the last of the fading light, how the wind ruffled his hair. He really was a good guy, steady, kind, funny in a way that never felt forced. And yet there was still a part of her that hesitated. It wasn’t that she didn’t like him. If anything, that was the problem. She liked him too much.

Before she could overthink it any further, Caleb straightened up, pulling her back to the moment. “Want to grab a coffee or something?” he asked. “Sandy’s Diner stays open late.”

Leah smiled. “Sure, why not?”

They walked back up the pier, heading toward the diner on the corner. The smell of fresh-brewed coffee and grilled cheese hit Leah as soon as they stepped inside, and she couldn’t help but feel a pang of affection for the place. It was one of those diners that hadn’t changed in decades—red vinyl booths, checkered floors, and a jukebox in the corner that still played old rock-and-roll hits. It reminded her of childhood summers here, the ones she had spent before life got complicated.

They slid into a booth, and the waitress, a woman in her sixties with a no-nonsense air, came by to take their orders. Leah ordered coffee, while Caleb went for a grilled cheese and fries, insisting that food was a must if they were having late-night coffee.

“I’m still recovering from that burger Anna ordered for me earlier,” Leah said, laughing.

“Anna knows how to take care of people,” Caleb replied with a grin. “She’ll fatten you up in no time.”

Leah smiled at that, stirring her coffee absently. “She’s been great. I don’t know how I’d be getting through all of this without her. Or without you,” she added, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. “I mean it, Caleb. You’ve been amazing.”

He shrugged, looking a little sheepish. “I’m just glad I could help. This town could use a place like The Sand Dollar. And…” He hesitated, as if he were choosing his next words carefully. “I like being around you.”

Leah’s heart gave that now familiar flip. She met his eyes, and for a moment, she thought maybe he would say more. Maybe this was the moment they would stop pretending there was nothing more than friendship between them. But then the waitress returned with Caleb’s food, breaking the moment.

Leah blinked, forcing herself to look away. It was probably for the best. She didn’t need any more complications right now. The café was enough to handle.

But as they sat there, sharing fries and easy conversation, Leah couldn’t shake the feeling that something was shifting between them. And whether she was ready for it or not, it was only a matter of time before they would have to face it.

Chapter 6: Falling Into Place

Leah woke to the sound of seagulls squawking and sunlight streaming through her bedroom window. She groaned, rolling over in bed and pulling the blanket over her head. It had been a late night with Caleb, though she’d been awake for hours after their walk, replaying every conversation, every smile, every subtle touch.

She couldn’t get him out of her head.

Eventually, Leah gave in to the day and sat up, rubbing her eyes. She glanced at the clock. It was already past eight. Not early, but late enough that the ticking list of things to do for the café began to creep into her mind. She couldn’t afford a lazy morning when the grand opening was just a week away. Sighing, she pushed herself out of bed, pulled on a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt, and headed downstairs.

Leah poured herself a cup of coffee and sat at the small kitchen table, flipping open her planner. The page for the next seven days was filled with scribbles: health inspection Monday, menu finalization, supplies delivery, and a dozen other tasks, each one more urgent than the last. Just looking at it made her chest tighten with anxiety. How was she going to pull this off?

Her phone buzzed on the table, interrupting her thoughts. It was a text from Caleb.

Caleb: Got a minute? Stopped by the café, but you weren’t there.

Leah bit her lip, her heart doing its now-familiar little flip at the sight of his name. She quickly typed a reply.

Leah: Be there in 10. Just woke up.

She grabbed her keys and headed out the door, feeling a nervous energy building inside her as she made her way down the narrow streets toward the café. The morning air was crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the scent of saltwater filled her lungs with every breath. It should have been peaceful, but her thoughts were racing, not just about the café, but about Caleb. Last night had been fun, more than fun, really, but it had also left her with a swirl of feelings she wasn’t quite ready to unpack.

When she arrived at The Sand Dollar, Caleb was standing outside, leaning against the front door with his hands in his pockets. He was dressed in his usual flannel shirt and jeans, his hair wind-swept, looking every bit the rugged fisherman. Leah felt her stomach do a little somersault. She really needed to get a grip.

“Morning,” Caleb said, flashing her that easy grin of his. “You sleep in?”

Leah smiled, brushing her hair behind her ear as she unlocked the door. “Yeah, I guess I needed it. What’s up?”

“Just checking in,” he said, following her inside. “Wanted to see how you’re doing with everything. You’ve been pushing yourself pretty hard.”

Leah appreciated the concern, but she shrugged it off, trying to keep things light. “I’m fine. There’s still a lot to do, but I’m getting there.”

Caleb raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “You sure? I’ve seen that list you’ve got. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.”

Leah sighed, running a hand through her hair as she walked over to the counter. “Yeah, it’s a lot. I’ve got the health inspector coming on Monday, and I still don’t have the menu finalized. And the furniture is mostly ready, but there’s still the little stuff. I feel like no matter how much I get done, there’s always something else to add to the list.”

Caleb crossed the room, standing beside her as she rifled through a stack of invoices on the counter. “You know,” he said, his voice soft, “you don’t have to do it all by yourself. I meant it when I said I’d help.”

Leah paused, her hands stilling on the papers. She knew Caleb was trying to be supportive, but a part of her bristled at the thought of needing help. She’d moved to Cedarport to prove she could do this on her own. But Caleb wasn’t just anyone. He had been there from the beginning, and the truth was, she didn’t want to do this without him.

“I know,” she said quietly, finally meeting his eyes. “It’s just hard. I’ve always been the one in charge, the one who handles everything. I’m not used to relying on other people.”

Caleb nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I get that. But sometimes, letting people in doesn’t mean you’re weak. It just means you’re human.”

Leah smiled, touched by his words. Caleb had a way of cutting through all the noise in her head, getting straight to the heart of what was really bothering her. She didn’t know how he did it, but she was grateful for it.

“Thanks,” she said softly. “I could definitely use the help.”

“Good,” Caleb said, his grin returning. “Because you’re stuck with me now.”

Leah laughed, shaking her head. “I’ll hold you to that.”

They spent the rest of the morning going over the final details for the café. Caleb helped her reorganize the seating, making sure everything was spaced out just right, and Leah showed him the preliminary menu she’d been working on. They argued playfully about what sandwiches should make the cut, and Caleb insisted that she add a lobster roll, which she promptly vetoed.

By noon, the café was starting to take shape in a way that made Leah feel almost hopeful. Almost.

As they finished arranging the last of the chairs, the front door swung open, and Anna appeared, as if summoned by the universe at just the right time.

“Leah! Caleb!” she called out, her voice cheerful. “I’m interrupting something, aren’t I?”

Caleb straightened up from where he was leaning over a table, giving Anna a mock salute. “Just finishing up some work. You here to take Leah away for another burger?”

Anna grinned, giving Leah a knowing look. “Not today. I’ve got bigger plans.”

Leah frowned, wiping her hands on a rag. “What plans?”

“I just heard from my cousin, Sarah. She’s the one who owns that little bakery over in Southport, and she’s swamped with an order for a wedding next weekend. She’s looking for an extra pair of hands. Thought you might want to help out, you know, get some insider tips on the food industry.”

Leah blinked, taken aback. “Wait, me? Next weekend is the grand opening. I can’t just leave.”

Anna waved a hand dismissively. “It’s only for a day or two. Sarah’s wedding order is this weekend, so you’ll be back in plenty of time for your grand opening. Plus, it’ll be good for you to take a step back, clear your head. Trust me, you’ll come back more ready than ever.”

Leah hesitated, glancing at Caleb. She wasn’t sure if stepping away was the best idea when there was still so much to do. But at the same time, maybe Anna was right. She’d been running herself into the ground lately, and a little space could help her recharge before the big day.

Caleb must have sensed her hesitation because he gave her a nod of encouragement. “I can hold down the fort while you’re gone. You know I’ve got your back.”

Leah sighed, feeling the weight of her decision. “I don’t know”

“You’ll be back before you know it,” Anna said, smiling. “And think about all the inspiration you’ll get working with my cousin. She makes the best croissants in the state.”

Leah laughed despite herself. “Fine. I’ll do it. But you two better not let this place burn down while I’m gone.”

Caleb grinned. “I make no promises.”

As Leah packed up her things and headed out with Anna, a small knot of anxiety tightened in her stomach. She knew this was a chance to step back and clear her head, but the thought of leaving Cedarport, even for a few days, left her with an uneasy feeling.

Maybe it was just the pressure of the opening, or maybe—just maybe—it was the thought of being away from Caleb.

Chapter 7: A Change of Scenery

Leah sat in the passenger seat of Anna’s car, watching the scenery blur by as they drove toward Southport. The winding coastal road was familiar yet different from the streets of Cedarport, busier, with more cars and houses dotting the landscape. Southport was a little bigger than Cedarport, with a growing population of tourists and transplants, but it still carried that small town charm Leah had come to love. The ocean sparkled in the distance, waves gently rolling toward the shore, and for a moment, Leah let herself get lost in the sound of the wind rushing past the open window.

Anna hummed along to the music playing softly from the radio, glancing over at Leah from time to time. “You seem deep in thought,” she finally said, turning the volume down.

Leah smiled faintly, shrugging. “Just thinking about everything that still needs to be done. I feel guilty leaving.”

Anna scoffed, waving a hand. “You’ve been glued to that café for weeks. A day or two away isn’t going to ruin anything. Besides, Caleb’s holding down the fort, and from what I can tell, he’s more than capable of managing while you’re gone.”

Leah’s heart did that familiar little flip at the mention of Caleb’s name. She shifted in her seat, trying to focus on something else, anything else, but her mind kept wandering back to him. The way he’d looked at her the night before, standing on the pier with the sunset behind him, the way his eyes had lingered just a little longer than usual. There was something between them, something undeniable, and yet she couldn’t seem to let herself fully acknowledge it.

“I know,” Leah said, forcing a smile. “It’s just hard not to feel like I’m abandoning ship when the opening is so close.”

Anna gave her a sideways glance, a knowing smirk playing at her lips. “Sure, it’s the café you’re worried about.”

Leah groaned, leaning her head back against the seat. “Don’t start.”

“What?” Anna asked, feigning innocence. “I’m just saying, you and Caleb have been spending an awful lot of time together lately. And if you ask me, it’s not just about the café.”

Leah opened her mouth to protest, but nothing came out. She couldn’t argue with Anna because, deep down, she knew Anna was right. There was something more going on between her and Caleb, something she hadn’t planned for. And while a part of her wanted to explore it, another part was terrified. Terrified of getting hurt, of complicating things, of failing at something else besides the café.

“It’s not that simple,” Leah muttered, more to herself than to Anna.

“Why not?” Anna asked, glancing at her briefly before turning her attention back to the road. “He’s a great guy, and you obviously like him. What’s holding you back?”

Leah sighed, crossing her arms over her chest. “I don’t know. It’s just...complicated. I moved here to start fresh, to focus on my own thing for once. The café is everything to me right now. I don’t know if I’m ready for something else, especially when there’s so much at stake.”

Anna nodded, her expression softening. “I get it. Starting over is hard, and the café is a huge part of that. But sometimes the things we don’t plan for, the things that seem like complications end up being the best parts of the journey.”

Leah didn’t respond, her mind racing with thoughts she wasn’t ready to confront. Maybe Anna was right, but it didn’t change the fact that the café was her priority. Still, as they pulled into Southport, Leah couldn’t help but feel like she was avoiding something important. Something she couldn’t run from forever.

Sarah’s bakery was a small, charming place tucked between two larger shops on Southport’s main street. The moment Leah stepped inside, the smell of fresh-baked bread and pastries hit her, wrapping her in a warm, comforting embrace. Sarah, a petite woman with a flour-dusted apron and kind eyes, greeted them with a smile, her dark hair pulled back into a loose bun.

“Anna!” she exclaimed, pulling her cousin into a hug. “And you must be Leah. It’s so nice to finally meet you.”

Leah smiled, shaking Sarah’s hand. “Nice to meet you too. Thanks for letting me help out.”

“Are you kidding?” Sarah said, laughing. “I need all the help I can get. This wedding order has been a beast. Come on in, and I’ll show you what we’re working with.”

Leah followed Sarah and Anna into the kitchen, where the counters were lined with trays of croissants, cakes, and cookies in various stages of preparation. It was chaos, but the good kind; organized, productive chaos. Leah found herself relaxing a little, grateful for the distraction.

For the next few hours, Leah threw herself into the work, helping Sarah prepare batches of dough, pipe frosting onto cakes, and organize the trays for the wedding. It felt good to be busy, to lose herself in the rhythm of baking, and for a while, she managed to push thoughts of Cedarport, and Caleb, out of her mind.

By mid-afternoon, the bakery was buzzing with activity, and Leah found herself alone at one of the counters, carefully arranging a tray of pastries. She had just finished when Anna came up beside her, leaning against the counter with a mischievous smile.

“So,” she said, her tone light, “have you heard from your guy yet?”

Leah frowned, confused. “My guy?”

“Caleb,” Anna clarified, nudging her playfully. “Has he texted you yet?”

Leah rolled her eyes, trying to hide the smile tugging at her lips. “He’s not my guy, Anna.”

“Right,” Anna said, drawing the word out. “But seriously, have you heard from him?”

Leah glanced at her phone, which had been sitting on the counter next to her. There was no new message, no missed call. “No, not yet. He’s probably busy with the café.”

Anna smirked. “Or he’s trying to give you some space.”

Leah didn’t respond, but a small part of her wondered if Anna was right. Maybe Caleb was giving her the room she’d asked for, but instead of feeling relieved, Leah felt an unfamiliar pang of disappointment.

“I’m sure he’s fine,” Leah said, more to herself than to Anna.

Anna shrugged, giving her a knowing look. “I’m sure he is too. But you, my friend, are a little more complicated.”

Leah sighed, placing the last of the pastries on the tray. “You can say that again.”

Later that evening, after a long day of baking and wedding prep, Leah found herself lying in bed at the small inn where she and Anna were staying. The room was quiet, save for the sound of the ocean waves outside the window, but Leah’s mind was anything but still. She stared at the ceiling, her thoughts drifting back to Cedarport, to The Sand Dollar, and to Caleb.

She hadn’t heard from him all day, and while part of her was relieved to have the space she’d asked for, another part of her couldn’t help but miss him. It wasn’t just the way he made her laugh, or how he always knew the right thing to say when she was feeling overwhelmed. It was the way he made her feel seen, understood, in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time.

Leah closed her eyes, trying to push the thoughts away, but they kept coming. Maybe it was time to stop fighting it. Maybe Anna was right—sometimes the things we don’t plan for are exactly what we need.

Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, pulling her from her thoughts. Leah reached for it, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Caleb’s name on the screen.

Caleb: Just checking in. Café’s still standing. Missed having you around today.

Leah’s breath caught in her throat. She stared at the message for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest. Missed having her around. It was a simple statement, but it hit her with more force than she expected.

She quickly typed a reply, her fingers trembling slightly.

Leah: Missed being there. Be back soon.

She hesitated for a moment before adding another line.

Leah: Can we talk when I get back?

Chapter 8: Homecoming and Heartbeats

The drive back to Cedarport felt both too long and too short. Leah had spent most of the morning helping Sarah finish the last of the wedding order, her mind only half focused on the pastries and frosting as thoughts of Caleb tugged at her. The message he’d sent her last night had stirred something deep inside her, something she wasn’t sure she was ready to face.

“Can we talk when I get back?”

She’d typed the words without fully thinking them through, but now that they were out there, hanging between them, there was no turning back. What exactly did she want to talk about? And more importantly, what did Caleb want? Was he waiting for her to make the first move, or was she completely misreading the situation?

Anna had driven most of the way back, filling the car with cheerful chatter about the wedding, the bakery, and all the exciting gossip she’d heard from Sarah. Leah had nodded along, grateful for the distraction, but the closer they got to Cedarport, the more anxious she became. By the time they pulled into town, her stomach was in knots.

“You okay?” Anna asked as she parked the car in front of The Sand Dollar. “You’ve been quiet since we left Southport.”

Leah forced a smile, unbuckling her seatbelt. “Yeah, just thinking about the café. The health inspector is coming tomorrow, and I’m still working on the final menu.”

Anna gave her a skeptical look. “Right. Sure, that’s what’s on your mind.”

Leah sighed, knowing there was no point in pretending. “It’s Caleb,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Anna’s expression softened, and she reached over to squeeze Leah’s hand. “I figured as much. You’re going to talk to him, right?”

Leah nodded, though she still wasn’t sure how that conversation was going to go. “Yeah. I told him I wanted to talk when I got back.”

“Good,” Anna said, giving her an encouraging smile. “You’re doing the right thing, Leah. Just be honest with him—and with yourself.”

Leah smiled faintly, appreciating Anna’s support even though her nerves were still frayed. “Thanks. I’ll let you know how it goes.”

Anna winked as Leah stepped out of the car. “You’d better.”

Leah stood outside The Sand Dollar, taking in the sight of the café in the soft afternoon light. It looked good—better than she’d expected when she first bought the place. The windows gleamed, the new sign above the door gave it a fresh, inviting look, and through the glass, she could see the tables and chairs arranged just so. It was ready. Almost.

But right now, the café wasn’t the thing weighing on her mind. She took a deep breath and pulled out her phone, hesitating for a moment before sending Caleb a quick text.

Leah: I’m back. Are you around?

It only took a minute for her phone to buzz in response.

Caleb: Be there in 5.

Leah’s heart raced as she unlocked the door and stepped inside, the familiar smell of fresh wood and faint paint lingering in the air. She set her bag down behind the counter and busied herself with straightening a few chairs, though her mind was a blur. What was she going to say to him? What if she said the wrong thing? Or worse, what if he didn’t feel the same way?

The sound of the door opening pulled her from her thoughts. Caleb stepped inside, his blue eyes immediately finding hers. He looked the same as always calm, confident, with that easy smile that never failed to make her heart skip a beat. But there was something different about the way he looked at her now, a quiet intensity that made Leah’s stomach flip.

“Hey,” Caleb said, closing the door behind him. “Welcome back.”

“Hey,” Leah replied, her voice a little too breathy. She cleared her throat and tried to sound more casual. “How was everything while I was gone? No disasters, I hope?”

Caleb chuckled, stepping closer. “No disasters. Everything went smoothly, though the place definitely felt empty without you.”

There it was again, that subtle, almost unspoken connection between them. Leah’s heart thudded in her chest as she met his gaze, the weight of what they needed to talk about settling heavily between them.

“So...” Caleb said, leaning against one of the tables, his expression growing more serious. “You said you wanted to talk.”

Leah swallowed, suddenly feeling more nervous than she’d expected. She hadn’t planned out what to say, hadn’t rehearsed it in her head the way she usually did. All she knew was that she needed to be honest, no matter how scary it felt.

“Yeah, I do,” Leah said softly, taking a deep breath. “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking while I was away, and I realized that I’ve been avoiding something. Something important.”

Caleb’s eyes darkened slightly, his attention fully on her. “Go on.”

Leah bit her lip, trying to steady her voice. “I didn’t come to Cedarport looking for anything, or anyone. I came here because I wanted to start over, to do something for myself for once. The café was supposed to be my focus, and it still is, but,” She trailed off, unsure how to say what she really meant.

“But?” Caleb prompted gently.

Leah looked up at him, her heart pounding in her chest. “But then you came along. And I don’t know how to explain it, but every time I’m around you, I feel something. Something more than friendship. And I’ve been trying to ignore it because I didn’t think I was ready for it. But the truth is, I can’t ignore it anymore.”

There. It was out. Her heart felt like it was racing out of control, but there was also a strange sense of relief in finally saying the words.

Caleb was quiet for a moment, his gaze steady and unreadable. Leah’s pulse quickened as she waited for him to respond, every second feeling like an eternity.

Finally, he pushed away from the table and took a step closer, his eyes never leaving hers. “Leah, I’ve been feeling the same thing. Since the day I met you.”

Her breath caught in her throat, a mixture of relief and disbelief flooding through her. “You have?”

Caleb nodded, his expression softening. “Yeah. I didn’t want to push you, though. I could tell you had a lot on your plate, and the last thing I wanted was to make things more complicated for you. But I can’t pretend it’s not there, either. Every time I’m around you, it just...feels right.”

Leah’s chest tightened with a mixture of joy and fear. This was what she’d been afraid of. What she hadn’t been ready to face. But now that it was out in the open, she couldn’t deny the truth of it. Being with Caleb felt right. It always had.

“I don’t want to complicate things,” she said softly, her eyes searching his. “The café, my life here… it’s all new, and I’m still figuring things out. But I also don’t want to miss out on something that feels this real.”

Caleb stepped even closer, his voice low and reassuring. “We don’t have to figure it all out right now. We can take it slow, one step at a time. The café’s important to you, and I get that. But so is this. So are we.”

Leah felt the tension in her chest ease as she looked up at him, realizing that maybe, just maybe, she didn’t have to choose between the café and Caleb. Maybe she could have both.

“I like the sound of that,” she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. “One step at a time.”

Caleb grinned, the warmth in his eyes making her heart flutter. “Good. Because I’ve been waiting for you to catch up.”

Leah laughed softly, the weight of the conversation lifting as they stood there, facing each other in the middle of The Sand Dollar. The café might have been the dream that brought her to Cedarport, but Caleb was becoming the reason she wanted to stay.

Chapter 9: Opening Doors, Crossing Lines

The day of The Sand Dollar’s grand opening loomed closer, and Leah found herself oscillating between excitement and complete panic. The café had come together beautifully, thanks in no small part to Caleb’s help, and the final touches were being placed on everything, from the menu to the decorations. But no amount of preparation could quiet the voice in the back of her mind that wondered: What if no one shows up? What if it fails?

Leah stood behind the counter, absentmindedly wiping the same spot over and over again as her thoughts spiraled. The café looked perfect: the deep blue walls were inviting, the mismatched vintage chairs were positioned just right, and the smell of fresh coffee lingered in the air, even though she hadn’t brewed a single cup yet. The tables, now all level (more or less), were set with little vases of wildflowers that Anna had insisted on picking from her garden.

It should have felt like a victory, but instead, Leah was overwhelmed by the sheer weight of it all. Tomorrow was the big day, the day she had been working toward for months, and suddenly, it all felt too real.

The bell above the door jingled, pulling Leah from her thoughts. She turned to see Caleb walking in, a smile on his face and his hands tucked into the pockets of his flannel jacket. He looked effortlessly relaxed, as always, but Leah could see the flicker of concern in his eyes as he approached her.

“Hey,” he said, his voice soft as he crossed the room to stand beside her. “You’ve been here all day, haven’t you?”

Leah let out a long sigh, running a hand through her hair. “I just can’t seem to turn my brain off. There’s so much riding on tomorrow, and I keep thinking of all the things that could go wrong.”

Caleb leaned against the counter, his blue eyes steady on hers. “Nothing’s going to go wrong, Leah. You’ve put everything into this place, and people are excited. They’re going to show up.”

Leah looked down at the rag in her hand, biting her lip. “But what if they don’t? What if it flops? I can’t afford to fail at this.”

“You won’t fail,” Caleb said, his voice firm but reassuring. “I’ve seen how hard you’ve worked. The whole town has. You’re not just opening a café. You’re bringing something special to Cedarport. People already love you, Leah. This is going to be great.”

Leah felt a small flutter of warmth in her chest, but it wasn’t enough to quiet her doubts. She glanced out the window, watching as the sun dipped lower toward the horizon, casting a soft orange glow over the quiet streets of Cedarport.

“I just wish I could believe that,” she whispered, more to herself than to Caleb.

Caleb took a step closer, gently placing a hand on her arm. “I believe it. And I believe in you.”

Leah’s breath caught in her throat at the tenderness in his voice. She looked up at him, her heart beating a little faster. Over the past few days, ever since they’d had the conversation, things had shifted between them. It was subtle, but undeniable. They hadn’t defined anything, not yet but there was an unspoken understanding between them, a shared feeling that lingered in every look, every touch. It was exciting, and terrifying.

But now, with the café on the verge of opening, Leah wasn’t sure she could handle both at once. She wanted to let herself fall for Caleb, wanted to believe in this connection between them, but the weight of her responsibilities was heavy, pressing down on her like a stone.

Caleb must have sensed her hesitation because he pulled his hand back, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “I know you’ve got a lot on your plate right now,” he said, his voice gentle. “But just know that I’m here for you whatever you need.”

Leah nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. “I know. And I appreciate it. I just. I’m not sure I can do all of this at once. The café, us… It’s a lot.”

Caleb’s smile was soft, understanding. “We can take it slow, Leah. There’s no rush. I’m not going anywhere.”

Leah smiled back, though the anxiety still gnawed at her. Caleb’s patience and kindness only made her more aware of how much she wanted this, wanted him, but it also heightened her fear that she wasn’t ready. That she would mess it up, just like she feared messing up the café.

Caleb leaned in and kissed her cheek, the gesture so gentle it sent a warm shiver down her spine. “You’re going to be great tomorrow,” he whispered. “I’ll be here, rooting for you.”

Leah watched as he turned and left the café, the bell jingling softly behind him. The warmth of his kiss lingered on her skin, but so did the weight of her uncertainty. She was trying so hard to balance everything, but the truth was, she wasn’t sure how much longer she could keep it all together.

The morning of the grand opening arrived with an unusual stillness in the air. Leah woke before dawn, her mind already racing with a checklist of last-minute things to do. She spent the early hours rearranging the pastries, double-checking the coffee supply, and pacing around the café like a restless ghost.

By the time the doors were set to open at nine, a few early risers had already gathered outside, peering in through the windows with curiosity. Leah’s stomach twisted with nerves as she unlocked the door, the small crowd filtering in with soft greetings and polite smiles.

Anna was the first to arrive, bounding in with her usual enthusiasm and carrying a bouquet of wildflowers. “Congratulations!” she exclaimed, enveloping Leah in a tight hug. “The place looks amazing.”

Leah smiled, though the knot of anxiety in her chest hadn’t loosened. “Thanks, Anna. I hope people like it.”

“They’ll love it,” Anna said confidently, placing the flowers on one of the tables. “I’ll be here all day if you need anything. And don’t forget, I’m your official taste tester.”

Leah chuckled, feeling a little lighter at Anna’s playful tone. “I won’t forget.”

As the morning wore on, more and more people began to trickle in, locals from Cedarport, curious tourists passing through, and even a few familiar faces from Leah’s childhood summers. The café buzzed with quiet conversation, the clink of mugs and the shuffle of feet creating a hum of life that Leah had dreamed about for months.

But even with the steady stream of customers, Leah couldn’t relax. Every small hiccup, a spilled coffee, a forgotten order, felt like a catastrophe in her mind. She kept glancing at the clock, counting down the hours until she could declare the opening a success, or at least a survival.

By midday, the café was packed. Caleb had shown up not long after opening, offering to help wherever he could. Leah had gratefully accepted his offer, though the sight of him moving so easily through the crowd only made her heart race faster.

It wasn’t until the afternoon lull, when the café was finally quiet, that Leah allowed herself a moment to breathe. She stood behind the counter, watching as Caleb wiped down the last of the tables, his expression focused but content.

He looked up and caught her staring, flashing her a teasing smile. “See? Told you it would be a success.”

Leah smiled back, though the tension in her chest hadn’t fully dissipated. “It’s not over yet.”

Caleb chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re too hard on yourself.”

Before Leah could respond, the front door opened, and a man she didn’t recognize stepped inside. He was tall, with salt and pepper hair and a sharp, purposeful stride. He looked out of place among the casual locals and tourists, his tailored suit and briefcase standing out like a beacon of something unfamiliar.

“Excuse me,” the man said, his voice smooth and authoritative. “I’m looking for Leah Morgan.”

Leah blinked, caught off guard. “That’s me. Can I help you?”

The man smiled, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I’m from the Coastal Investors Group. I’ve been meaning to speak with you about this property.”

Leah’s heart skipped a beat, a sudden wave of unease washing over her. “What about the property?”

The man’s smile widened, but it felt cold. “I think we should have a conversation about the future of The Sand Dollar.”

Chapter 10: A Storm on the Horizon

Leah’s heart raced as she stared at the man standing in front of her. His perfectly pressed suit, his briefcase, and the calculating gleam in his eyes all screamed one thing: trouble. The café had been open for only a few hours, and already something was threatening to disrupt everything.

“I’m sorry, you’re from where?” Leah asked, her voice steadier than she felt.

“The Coastal Investors Group,” the man repeated, offering a business card with the same impersonal smile. “We represent a group of developers interested in acquiring key properties along the coast for revitalization projects. The Sand Dollar is one of the locations we’ve identified as having potential.”

Leah took the card but barely glanced at it. Her pulse quickened, her thoughts racing. Revitalization projects? Acquiring key properties? What did that mean? She’d worked too hard to let this happen.

“I’m not interested in selling,” Leah said firmly, crossing her arms in front of her chest. She was proud of the confidence in her voice, but underneath, her stomach churned with nerves.

The man’s smile didn’t waver. If anything, it grew colder. “I understand that this is a personal venture for you, Ms. Morgan, but we’re prepared to make a generous offer, more than fair, considering the current market value. This could be an excellent opportunity for you to walk away with a significant profit.”

Leah felt a flare of anger rise in her chest. She’d put her heart and soul into this café. It wasn’t just a business, it was her fresh start, her dream. And now this stranger waltzed in, offering her money to abandon it?

“I appreciate the offer,” Leah said, her voice tight, “but I didn’t open The Sand Dollar to sell it to a bunch of developers. This place means more to me than that.”

The man’s eyes flicked around the café, his smile thinning. “I understand your emotional attachment, but sometimes sentimentality can get in the way of practical decisions. We’re offering a way for you to benefit financially while moving on to your next opportunity.”

Leah’s heart hammered in her chest, but before she could respond, Caleb stepped up beside her, his expression hardening as he sized up the man in the suit. His presence was instantly calming, grounding her in the storm of her emotions.

“Leah said she’s not interested,” Caleb said, his voice cool and steady. “So maybe you should take that as an answer.”

The man glanced at Caleb, clearly sizing him up. “And you are?”

“I’m someone who cares about this place,” Caleb replied, his tone carrying an edge of warning.

The man shifted uncomfortably, realizing he was no longer in control of the conversation. “Very well,” he said, his voice measured. “I see I’ve come at a bad time. But please, take some time to think about it, Ms. Morgan. The offer is generous, and it won’t stay on the table forever.”

Without waiting for a response, the man turned and left the café, his briefcase swinging at his side. The door closed behind him with a sharp jingle of the bell, leaving a tense silence in his wake.

Leah let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, her hands trembling slightly as she stared down at the business card in her hand. Coastal Investors Group. The name felt like a threat, a reminder that someone out there wanted to take away what she had built.

Caleb stepped closer, his hand brushing her arm in a gesture of comfort. “You okay?”

Leah nodded, though she didn’t feel okay. Not at all. “Yeah. I just, I wasn’t expecting that. It feels like every time I start to get my footing, something else comes along and knocks me off balance.”

Caleb gave her a reassuring smile, his hand lingering on her arm. “You’re doing great, Leah. Don’t let some suit get in your head. He’s just looking to make money, and he doesn’t care about what this place means to you, or to the town.”

Leah looked up at him, grateful for his support. “Thanks, Caleb. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’d figure it out,” Caleb said with a wink, though his expression softened as he added, “But I’m glad to be here with you.”

Leah’s heart fluttered at his words, the warmth of his hand on her arm sending a quiet thrill through her. She still hadn’t quite wrapped her mind around whatever was happening between them, but moments like this made it hard to ignore. Caleb wasn’t just her friend anymore. He was something more, something she hadn’t been ready for, but now couldn’t imagine going without.

Still, the weight of the situation pressed down on her. Leah glanced at the clock, realizing that the café was due to close soon. The day had been a whirlwind, and though there had been plenty of customers, the encounter with the investor had soured the victory she’d been hoping for.

“I need some air,” Leah said, shaking her head slightly. “I’m going to close up early. Let’s go for a walk?”

Caleb nodded, his expression understanding. “Sounds like a good idea.”

The sun was setting over Cedarport, casting the town in soft shades of pink and orange. Leah and Caleb walked along the pier, the sound of waves crashing gently against the rocks below offering a sense of peace. Leah had been quiet for most of the walk, her mind still buzzing with everything that had happened that day. The café, the investor, her feelings for Caleb — it was all swirling together in a way that felt overwhelming.

“You’re quiet,” Caleb said, glancing over at her as they strolled.

Leah sighed, wrapping her arms around herself as they approached the end of the pier. “I’m just thinking. About everything.”

Caleb stopped walking, turning to face her. “What’s on your mind?”

Leah leaned against the railing, looking out at the endless expanse of the ocean. “I’ve worked so hard to get here. The café was supposed to be my fresh start, the one thing I could control. And now this investor comes in, trying to buy it out from under me, and I’m scared that if I don’t handle this right, I’ll lose it.”

Caleb’s expression was serious as he stepped closer, his hand resting on her shoulder. “You’re not going to lose it, Leah. You have too much fight in you to let that happen. You’ve built something special. I can see that, and so can everyone else.”

Leah smiled, though her chest still felt tight with anxiety. “It just feels like there’s always something else. Like the universe is testing me.”

Caleb chuckled softly. “Maybe it is. But you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. You’ve faced bigger challenges than this, and you’ve come out on top. This guy? He’s just another obstacle. You’ll figure it out.”

Leah looked up at him, her heart swelling with gratitude. Caleb always seemed to know exactly what to say to calm her down, to make her believe in herself again. But more than that, his presence made her feel like she wasn’t alone in this, that whatever challenges came her way, they could face them together.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you,” she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Caleb’s eyes softened, and for a moment, they stood there in silence, the space between them charged with unspoken emotion. Then, before Leah could second-guess herself, she reached out and took his hand, lacing her fingers with his.

Caleb looked down at their joined hands, then back up at her, a slow smile spreading across his face. He gently squeezed her hand, stepping closer until they were just inches apart.

“You don’t have to do it alone, Leah,” he said, his voice low and steady. “I’m here. For all of it.”

Leah felt her heart soar at his words, the weight of her worries lifting ever so slightly. For the first time in a long time, she felt like maybe, just maybe, everything would be okay. They would figure it out together.

The ocean stretched out before them, vast and endless, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, Leah allowed herself to believe that, like the waves, she could weather any storm that came her way.

Chapter 11: Crossroads

Leah stood in the kitchen of The Sand Dollar, her hands gripping the edges of the counter as she stared down at the investor’s business card. The café was closed for the night, the lights dimmed, and the quiet that filled the space only amplified the turmoil swirling in her chest. Coastal Investors Group. The name alone made her stomach twist with unease.

She wanted to crumple the card and throw it in the trash, pretend that the man in the suit had never walked into her café with his smooth words and hollow promises. But she couldn’t. The offer was real. And as much as she hated to admit it, part of her wondered if maybe, just maybe, she should at least consider it.

What if they offer more money than I could ever dream of? a small voice whispered in the back of her mind. What if selling is the smart choice?

But another, louder voice pushed back. You didn’t come here for the money. You came here for a fresh start.

Leah sighed, running a hand through her hair. The problem was, she hadn’t come to Cedarport with a perfect plan. She’d come here to escape, to rebuild, to do something that was entirely hers. But now, with the café open and running, she felt the weight of responsibility pressing down on her harder than ever before. The grand opening had been a success, yes, but could she keep that momentum going? Could she keep The Sand Dollar afloat long term? And what if she failed?

Her phone buzzed on the counter, pulling her from her thoughts. It was a text from Caleb.

Caleb: You okay? I’ve been thinking about you.

Leah felt a warm flutter in her chest at his words, but it was quickly followed by a rush of guilt. Caleb believed in her. He believed in the café, in what she was building. How could she even think about selling? What would that say about her? About them?

Leah: I’m okay. Just thinking too much. Want to come over?

The response was instant.

Caleb: Be there in 5.

Leah set her phone down and took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of thoughts in her head. She needed to talk to Caleb, to get his perspective. She trusted him, maybe more than she trusted herself right now, and his steady presence always made things feel more manageable.

Sure enough, a few minutes later, there was a soft knock at the door. Leah crossed the room and opened it to find Caleb standing there, his familiar, warm smile instantly making her feel lighter. He stepped inside, closing the door behind him, and immediately wrapped her in a hug.

“You’ve been overthinking, haven’t you?” he asked gently, his chin resting on the top of her head.

Leah sighed, leaning into him, allowing herself a moment to just be held. “You know me too well.”

Caleb chuckled, pulling back just enough to look her in the eyes. “What’s going on? Is it still the investor?”

Leah nodded, her gaze dropping to the floor. “I can’t stop thinking about it. I hate that he came in here and made me doubt everything, but I’d be lying if I said the offer didn’t get to me. What if I’m in over my head? What if I can’t keep the café going long-term? Selling might be the safe option, even if it’s not what I want.”

Caleb’s expression softened, his hands gently resting on her shoulders. “You’re not in over your head, Leah. You’ve built something amazing here. And yeah, it’s going to be hard sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you should just give up because someone waves a little money in your face. You didn’t come here to take the safe option.”

Leah bit her lip, feeling the weight of his words. He was right. She knew that deep down. But the doubts still lingered, stubborn and persistent. “I just don’t want to fail,” she whispered. “This café, it’s all I have right now. If I mess this up...”

“You won’t mess it up,” Caleb said firmly, his blue eyes locking onto hers. “And even if things get tough, you won’t be facing it alone. You’ve got people who care about you, Leah. You’ve got me.”

Leah’s heart swelled at his words, but there was a part of her that still struggled with the idea of relying on anyone else. She’d always prided herself on being independent, on being able to handle things on her own. But Caleb wasn’t offering to take over. He was offering to stand by her side.

She nodded slowly, her fingers twisting together nervously. “I just don’t know what to do.”

“Then let’s figure it out together,” Caleb said, his voice calm and steady. “One step at a time. First, you need to decide if selling is even something you want to consider. Do you want to hear the guy out? Or are you sure you want to keep the café no matter what?”

Leah hesitated. The idea of selling felt like a betrayal, to herself, to the café, to the dream she’d worked so hard to create. But at the same time, ignoring the offer felt like turning her back on a potential safety net, something that could save her from future struggles.

“I don’t want to sell,” Leah said quietly, her voice gaining strength as she spoke. “I love this place. I’ve put everything into it, and I’m not ready to walk away from it. But I guess a part of me is scared that if I don’t at least listen to what they’re offering, I’ll be missing out on something that could save me from a lot of heartache down the road.”

Caleb nodded thoughtfully. “I get that. And maybe it wouldn’t hurt to hear them out, if only so you know exactly what you’re saying no to. But don’t let fear drive your decisions. You’re stronger than you think, Leah. You’ve already done the hard part, starting over. This café is part of who you are now. And I know you can make it work.”

Leah smiled, feeling some of the weight lift off her chest. Caleb always had a way of making things seem clearer, simpler, even when they felt impossibly complicated. “Thank you,” she said softly, her eyes meeting his. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Caleb’s smile was slow and warm, his gaze holding hers for a long moment before he spoke. “You’d figure it out. But I’m glad I can be here with you.”

Leah felt a rush of warmth in her chest, a feeling that went deeper than gratitude. She’d been trying to keep things simple between them, to take it slow, but the truth was, Caleb had become more important to her than she’d anticipated. He wasn’t just a source of comfort, he was someone she wanted by her side, not just now, but in the future.

Before she could second-guess herself, Leah reached up and gently cupped Caleb’s face in her hands, pulling him down into a kiss. It was soft at first, tentative, as if they were both still testing the waters. But then Caleb’s hands slid around her waist, pulling her closer, and the kiss deepened, the world around them fading away.

When they finally pulled apart, both of them slightly breathless, Caleb rested his forehead against hers, his voice low and filled with warmth. “So, what now?”

Leah smiled, her heart racing but steady. “Now we figure out what’s next for the café. And for us.”

Caleb grinned, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Sounds like a good plan.”

Leah felt a renewed sense of hope settle in her chest. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she wasn’t facing them alone. The café wasn’t just her dream anymore. It was their dream. And together, they could weather whatever storms came their way.

Chapter 12: Anchored in Love

The next morning dawned bright and clear, the sun casting a golden light over Cedarport. Leah stood outside The Sand Dollar, taking a deep breath of the crisp, salty air. Today felt different. Maybe it was the conversation she’d had with Caleb the night before, or the fact that the investor’s offer was still weighing on her mind. Either way, she knew this was the day she had to make a decision. She couldn’t avoid it any longer.

Leah glanced at the business card in her hand, the words Coastal Investors Group stark against the clean white background. It had been two days since the man in the suit had walked into her café with his offer. Two days of sleepless nights and endless worries about the future. But after everything she’d been through—the months of hard work, the fear of failure, and the thrill of success, she knew one thing for sure: she wasn’t ready to let go.

The Sand Dollar was hers. It was more than just a café; it was her new beginning, her dream. And walking away from it, no matter how much money was offered, wasn’t an option.

With a determined breath, Leah pulled out her phone and dialed the number on the business card. Her heart raced as the phone rang once, twice, before a familiar smooth voice answered.

“Coastal Investors Group, this is Thomas speaking.”

Leah clenched her fist, steeling herself. “Hi, Thomas. This is Leah Morgan from The Sand Dollar. I wanted to call and let you know that I’ve made my decision.”

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line. “I see. And what is your decision, Ms. Morgan?”

Leah took a deep breath, her voice clear and strong. “I’m not selling. The café isn’t for sale, and it never will be. I appreciate the offer, but this place means too much to me. I hope you can understand that.”

For a moment, there was silence, and Leah held her breath, waiting for Thomas to respond.

“Understood,” he said, his tone professional but cool. “I can’t say I’m not disappointed, but I respect your decision. Best of luck with your venture, Ms. Morgan.”

“Thank you,” Leah said, her voice firm. “Goodbye.”

She hung up the phone and let out a long, relieved breath. It was done. She had made her choice, and for the first time in days, she felt a sense of peace settle over her. There would be challenges ahead. Running a business was never easy, but she wasn’t doing it alone. She had built something real, something that belonged to her. And she had Caleb by her side.

Just as Leah was tucking the business card into her pocket, the familiar jingle of the café doorbell echoed behind her. She turned to see Caleb walking in, his usual easy smile on his face.

“Morning,” he said, crossing the room to stand beside her. “How’s everything going?”

Leah smiled, feeling lighter than she had in days. “Good. I just called the investor. Told him I’m not selling.”

Caleb’s grin widened, his eyes sparkling with pride. “That’s my girl. I knew you’d make the right choice.”

Leah felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. It wasn’t just about the café anymore. Caleb had been right all along—she didn’t have to do it alone. And now, standing here with him, she knew she didn’t want to.

“I couldn’t have done it without you,” Leah said softly, looking up at him. “You’ve been here for me every step of the way.”

Caleb’s expression softened as he gently brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “You would’ve figured it out. But I’m glad I could be here.”

Leah smiled, her heart swelling with gratitude and something deeper. Something that had been growing between them for weeks. It wasn’t just a connection anymore. It was love. She could feel it in the way Caleb looked at her, in the way he supported her without question, in the way her heart raced whenever he was near.

“Caleb,” she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly with emotion. “I don’t want to do this without you. Not the café, not anything.”

Caleb’s eyes softened, and he took her hands in his, pulling her close. “You won’t have to,” he said, his voice low and steady. “I’m all in, Leah. For the café, for you, for whatever comes next.”

Leah’s heart soared at his words, and before she could think twice, she leaned up and kissed him. It was soft and sweet, a kiss filled with all the things she hadn’t yet said but felt in every part of her. When they pulled apart, Caleb rested his forehead against hers, a contented smile on his face.

“So,” Caleb said, his voice light, “what’s the plan now? What’s next for The Sand Dollar?”

Leah grinned, feeling a rush of excitement. “Now, we get to work. I’ve got ideas for new menu items, and Anna’s been pushing me to host a trivia night or something to bring in more locals. I want to make this place the heart of Cedarport. Somewhere people want to be.”

Caleb’s smile widened, his eyes filled with admiration. “I love it. And you know I’ll be here for whatever you need.”

Leah squeezed his hands, her heart full as she looked up at him. “I know.”

The weeks that followed felt like a whirlwind. Word spread quickly that The Sand Dollar wasn’t just a new café but a new fixture in Cedarport. Locals came in regularly, often staying long after they finished their coffee just to chat or enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Tourists passing through began to mark it as a must-visit spot, drawn in by the charming décor and the fresh, homemade pastries Leah had become known for.

The café became everything Leah had dreamed it would be; warm, welcoming, and alive with the hum of conversation and laughter. And at the center of it all was Caleb, always there with a kind word, a helping hand, and that easy smile that never failed to make Leah’s heart skip a beat.

One evening, as Leah and Caleb closed up after another busy day, she found herself standing at the window, watching the sunset cast a golden glow over the harbor. Caleb walked up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist as they watched the boats bob in the distance.

“This place is everything I wanted it to be,” Leah said softly, leaning back against him. “I still can’t believe it’s real sometimes.”

Caleb kissed the top of her head, his arms tightening around her. “It’s real. And it’s only going to get better.”

Leah smiled, turning in his arms to face him. “You know what the best part is?”

“What’s that?” Caleb asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.

Leah’s smile widened as she looked up at him, her heart full of love and gratitude. “You. You’re the best part.”

Caleb’s grin was slow and warm as he leaned down to kiss her, the world outside fading away until it was just the two of them, standing together in the place they had built — together.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Leah knew that this was only the beginning. She had found more than a fresh start in Cedarport. She had found home. And with Caleb by her side, she was ready for whatever came next.