Chapter 38

Stella

As I turn onto the road in front of The Café, my heart does a little jump when I see the Laurel Springs Police SUV that belongs to my boyfriend. It's parked near the front, Nick's patrol car sits next to it, and I see my Mom's SUV parked there too, as well as Holden's truck. I'm super excited to see my Ransom because I haven't seen him, except in passing, the last couple of days. Our schedules aren't jiving, now that I've started school and he's working more than ever.

But tonight, tonight is special. Our families are getting together for dinner.

Parking my car in the first available spot, I shut it off and then flip the visor up, checking my hair and makeup. It's been a long day at work, but I managed to freshen up my hair before I left, and now I'm doing the same with my makeup. Satisfied that I'm looking as good as I'm going to, I grab my purse and exit the car. I wish I'd had time to go home and change, but scrubs are going to have to do today.

When I enter, I see t