The Night It Almost Happened

Lake

The night air was thick with the kind of buzz that only good wine, firelight, and too many suppressed emotions could create. The retreat had hosted a bonfire-themed open mic night, encouraging couples to share poems, songs, or embarrassing stories. Ivy hadn’t participated—she was too focused on the way Lake’s eyes had followed her all evening like he was trying to solve her.

When the flames dwindled and couples peeled off toward their cabins, Ivy and Lake ...