Salvation (Surrender 3)

“I don’t see how. They’re exactly the same people.” He parks his truck, and I see his mom and dad waiting at the restaurant entrance.

As soon as we’re close enough, Jenna Hayes gives me an electrifying smile and pulls me into a warm hug. “Ember, so good to see you again.”

“You too, Mrs. Hayes.”

“Jenna,” she corrects me.

She steps back and greets Robbie the same way. James surprises me by throwing an arm over my shoulder and kissing my forehead lightly. “Hey there.”

“Hi,” I say shyly.

“Glad we could finally get together. Sorry it took so long,” Jenna says, ushering us all into the restaurant.

She may be sorry, but I’m thankful for the scheduling conflicts that pushed our dinner out a week. It gave me more time to mentally prepare.

“Robbie said you actually design some of your own dresses? I’d love to see sometime,” Jenna says kindly after we’re seated.

“I have a picture on my phone of the dress my aunt and I are making for the wedding.”

“Show me!” She wiggles in her seat and looks at me eagerly.

I find the picture and hand her my phone. Her eyes grow wide and she smiles warmly at me. “This is extremely beautiful, Ember. There’s a touch of casual elegance that will be perfect for a beach wedding. I can’t wait to see you.”

A blush creeps up my cheeks at the compliments. “Thank you.”

“Do you do any commissioned work?”

“Like design for other people?”

“Yes.”

“I’ve never done it before. I’m the only one who really wears my designs.”

“Maybe once we get this wedding over and done with, you and I could talk about a custom piece. We have an event this summer I’d like something new.”

Excitement bubbles within and threatens to spill out my mouth in the form of a scream. “I’d love that.”

“Great. We’ll schedule a time to talk when we get back from Florida. I can’t wait.” She winks at me and turns to Robbie.

The rest of the meal is enjoyable as we discuss the upcoming shower Jenna has planned for Raven and Declan. Robbie rests his arm on the back of my chair, and she notices with warmth in her gaze. When dessert is served, I’ve for

gotten all earlier anxiety.

“Ember, tell me about your family. Robbie says you live with your cousin?” James questions.

I knew the topic would come up at some point, so I was prepared, but Robbie must not like it.

“Dad —”

“No, it’s okay.” I put my hand over his and squeeze. “I do live with my cousin. He and my aunt are the reason I moved to Nashville. My mom, sister, and dad are still in Alabama. We don’t see each other much. But my cousin, he’s more like a brother.”

They listen intently as I tell them all about Cruz, Alex, and Aunt Chloe.

“I’d love to meet them.” Jenna grins.

“They’re cool folks,” Robbie adds.

“They’re the best, even if they’re completely wacked sometimes.” I laugh.