Chapter Three
“What’s going on with you and Caleb Hard?” Aunt Betty asked.
Lilly frowned. “Nothing, why?”
“Twice, I’ve seen him outside our home, and he’s done no more than watch you enter, then leave. I thought that boy knew how to treat a woman.”
She laughed. “We’re friends. Night one, he walked me home from the bar. Night two, we had dinner at the diner, and he walked me home. He’s the perfect gentleman. There are a lot of guys in this town that could learn a thing or two from him.”
“I’m sure. Happy birthday, honey.” Aunt Betty came to her side and Lilly froze when she saw a gift as well as a card in the woman’s hands.
“Aunt Betty, you really didn’t have to.”
“I know I didn’t have to, but what’s the point in having a birthday if you’re not going to celebrate it? Each moment in life needs to be celebrated. If we don’t, then what’s the point?”
Lilly took the card and gift from the woman. It had been a long time since she’d gotten a card, let alone a gift. Her throat felt like it was on fire as she tried to control the rush of emotions consuming her.
Tearing open the card, she was touched. Inside was a small note from Aunt Betty, hoping she had a wonderful day.
“Thank you.” She hugged the woman and then opened the present to find she was looking at a brand-new laptop. “I can’t accept this.”
“It’s all set up. Eliza helped me to get a bargain price. I’ve seen you struggle with that old thing. I’ve also purchased a printer for you. I see the way you type insanely at that thing and have to go back because it won’t catch up. You deserve it.”
“It’s too much.”
“Lilly, darling, you help me out here more than you know. I love the company. I enjoy being around you. Please let me do this one thing for you. Also, you’re not working today.”
“I am. I’ve got to head out in half an hour.”
“Called the library, arranged for someone else to take your shift. Did the same with Edward. You don’t need to go serving others. It’s your birthday, and if you trust me, I’ve got a surprise for you. You’ll find out about it near lunch.” Aunt Betty nudged her out of the way. “Time for me to cook for you.”
Aunt Betty winked at her, and Lilly laughed.
“It won’t bite. Open it up. See for yourself.”
As Aunt Betty made breakfast, she fired up the laptop to find everything in working order. She couldn’t believe it.
They enjoyed a good breakfast, and while Aunt Betty took care of some things at the florist shop she owned, Lilly transferred all of her working documents, and even took the time to print off one of her stories.
Aunt Betty returned a little after one, and Lilly walked with the other woman to her next present. The sun was high up in the sky. Rather than wear her usual jeans and shirt, she’d opted for a blue summer dress. It had been well worn, but it still fit and Lilly loved it. The length fell just below her knee, giving her comfort.
She recognized the Hard house as they turned into the driveway.
“What are we doing here?” Lilly asked. “Do you need me to pick something up?”
They didn’t go up to the main door, but Aunt Betty walked all the way around the back.
The moment she stepped into the yard, cheers of “Happy Birthday!” erupted, startling Lilly.
Banners, balloons, streamers, and other decorations filled the yard. Eliza, James, Darla, Rome, Caleb, Jane, and Theodore Hard were all there.
With a hand to her chest, she was speechless. “This is … thank you so much.”
She refused to cry. There was no way she was going to let them see how much this touched her.
Jane came toward her, pulling her in for a hug.
Everyone wished her a happy birthday.
She sensed Caleb lingered in his hug, but she must have misread it because they were only friends. When he’d asked her if she had a crush on anyone, she’d told a little lie. The more she’d gotten to know Caleb, she’d begun to develop a crush.
“This is amazing.”
“Aunt Betty told us all your favorite foods,” Jane said. “And don’t worry, I’ve got a lemon cake. Your favorite. I baked it myself. Finished icing it this morning. You’re going to love it.”
Caleb put his arm around her waist, tugging her close. “What do you think?”
“I had no idea this was even happening. I never celebrate my birthday.”
“I think it’s time we change that tradition.” He kissed her head and she found herself leaning against him. She had no right to. He didn’t belong to her.
Pulling away, she went to Eliza. Her friend held her close. “I’m so pleased we were able to do this for you.”