Chapter 47: Waiting For Her
Zeke stood in front of his closet, adjusting the cuff of his shirt for the third time. He’d already changed outfits at least four times, each one somehow not quite right. Too stiff. Too casual. Too much.
Today was Elise’s birthday, a milestone celebration surrounded by close family in the countryside. But for Zeke, it wasn’t just about that. There was a chance, just a chance, that Cassidy might show up.
The thought made his stomach twist with a mix of nerves and anticipation. After finally settling on a semi-formal look, dark slacks, a tailored blazer, and a crisp white shirt, Zeke grabbed his car keys and headed out the door.
Zeke arrived at Elise’s countryside home two hours before the party was set to begin.
The backyard was already being decorated with string lights, soft linen-draped tables, and fresh flowers, all arranged carefully under the warm afternoon sun. Everything had been set up to feel intimate, just close family, the way Elise liked it.
But for Zeke, the day wasn’t only about celebrating his grandmother’s 80th birthday.
It was also about her.
He had personally planned every detail of the event, down to the guest list. And though he hadn’t told Elise, one name mattered more than the rest.
Cassidy.
Zeke wasn’t even sure if she would show up. She hadn’t replied to his message, not directly. But he’d sent the invitation through Georgia, along with the time and the location. It was all he could do.
The air felt heavier with expectation as he stepped into the kitchen from the back door, where Elise was sipping tea at the counter. She looked up, surprised.