Home Town Hero (Pink Springs 2)

“Shot down again.”

“I think you’ll live. You have every woman in town falling all over you.” When he cringes, I wonder why. Most guys would be proud of the trail that follows him.

“They have this weird idea of who and what I am. It’s getting old.” That might be true, but it can’t be getting too old. I heard he went out with Kimmy a few weeks ago. You really can’t hide shit around this town.

“I feel you on that one.” I tuck my hair behind my ear and think it might be time for a change of color.

I’m looking for a fresh start, and I think getting my nose pierced is an act of rebellion. Why do I try and push Cooper’s buttons? I can’t help myself, and it’s almost pathetic at this point. I know I do these things to try and get his attention, but I need to let him go. It’s clear he’s made up his mind about us, and that’s never going to change. I know my age is part of the reason he tries to stay away from me, but I think it also has a lot to do with how I look and act. I’ll never be that beautiful blonde I saw him talking to yesterday.

“Didn’t you want to talk to me about something?” he reminds me.

“Oh yeah, I wanted to mention I’ve finally closed on the studio. I’m still coming up with ideas for classes, but if you ever have something in mind or want to do a show, I’m open for that.” Wes is an incredible artist, and a lot of people actually drive all the way out here to get their tattoos from him.

“I might. I’ll come up with some ideas and we’ll talk.”

“Awesome.” I reach into my wallet and try to pull out some money.

“Don’t even think about it, Juno. All I did was pierce your nose. You even brought in the stud.”

“Thanks, Wes.” I slide him some cash for a tip and he nods his thanks. “I better get going. It’s my last day at the diner.” It’s going to be strange not working there anymore, but I have so much to do to get myself off the ground and running.

Wes gives me a hug before I leave. I wave over my shoulder and head to work. The drive is short, but when I pull up, I see the place is packed. What the hell is going on? No way there was a chicken special again. I park in the back and grab my apron, then tie it on as I walk toward the backdoor.

“Hey!” Amy chirps loudly as I put my bag on the hook.

“Hey,” I greet her back, and when I turn around, she smiles.

“Did you finally pierce your nose?” She comes closer.

“Yeah.” I shrug, not wanting to make it a bigger deal than it is. “Why are there so many people here?”

“Oh right,” she says, not answering me. “I mean, let's go see.” She grabs my hand and pulls me toward the front.

When I push through the door, I hear everyone shout “surprise,” and I’m so shocked I put my hands over my face for a moment. My eyes fill with tears as I peek out at the crowd, and I’m overwhelmed with love.

“You guys,” I say, and a knot forms in my throat. There are balloons and posters everywhere. Anyone would think I’m moving away, not quitting. I turn to the owner and feel tears sting my eyes. “John.”

He gives me a giant hug, and I squeeze him right back for doing this for me. I love this town, and this really makes me think I’m starting to belong here. I’m not the new girl anymore, I'm one of them.

“I’m going to miss your pies. Quinn can’t make them as good as you.” His wife is going to murder him one of these days.

“I’m standing right here, jackass.” Quinn crumples up a napkin and throws it at him.

“You’re going to end up on the sofa tonight,” I tease John.

“She can try, but it’s not going to work.” John smirks at his wife. “Go have fun. You’re not working tonight.”

“Thank you,” I say again. “I know I don’t work here anymore, but if you ever get in a bind, call me and I’ll be right over.”

“You’re too damn sweet.” Quinn wraps her arm around me and gives me a hug too.

I make my way around, talking to everyone, and I swear half the town is here. I notice one person not in attendance, and I can’t help but glance out the window to the bench across the street. To my surprise, Cooper’s there watching us, and I’m so annoyed I turn my back on him. I’m tired of seeing him all the time, and he can see me walk away for once.