7. Genevieve

SEVEN

GENEVIEVE

Hours, and I mean hours , later, we’re finally rolling into Midnight Falls. We didn’t stop for food, gas, or a restroom break. Instead, I’m being lured to that fact I’ll be able to stand horizontal for a couple of hours, walk around the farm where Amos is getting the bison. He and Clay should take a couple of hours, then we’ll head right back to Arrowleaf.

In truth, I’m worried Amos is overdoing it. I know he’s this big and strong cowboy, used to working day and night. That still doesn’t make me stress less; it’s actually plaguing my mind, and I’m tempted to call or text my best friend to see if she has any sway if I don’t have any luck.

“Look up, sweetheart,” Amos gains my attention. I’ve been deep into my artwork, trying to keep my mind off groaning in boredom and having stiff muscles. That didn’t mean while I was deep in the process, Amos wouldn’t take my hand in his, entwining our fingers together, simply holding my hand at times. We’d disengage when he’d take a sip of water, and I’d lose his touch. A few minutes later, I’d reach out to him, hold his bicep if he had his hand on the wheel. Never in my life would I feel this confident, be this brave to reach out and willingly touch anyone, but this is Amos.

Amos, who has me falling head over heels in love with him, ready to follow him to the end of this world and go all in.

“Oh my gosh, Amos. This can’t be real.” Every Halloween decoration you can think about is on full display. Hanging from one corner to the next, each store front has a Halloween character. A clothing shop has a Beetlejuice theme, dresses in the black and white stripe design with outfits that are reminiscent of the movie. The pet store has a Hocus Pocus theme, Thackery Binx right up front. And then there’s my personal favorite, The Nightmare Before Christmas . I’m not sure what kind of store it is, but if we have the time, maybe Amos won’t mind taking a quick detour for a small shopping adventure. If the crowds aren’t too much for me.

“Clay mentioned it’s always like this, doesn’t matter the time of year. They celebrate Halloween all year long.” My eyes leave the storefronts and walkways where everything is displayed top to bottom. This is a Halloween lover’s heaven, therefore it’s me. I’m in awe and look at Amos.

“This is the coolest place ever. I’m not sure I’ll ever want to leave.” Amos better drive fast, or I’m going to open my mouth and beg for us to add another day to our road trip.

“It is pretty cool,” he replies, his warm eyes looking at me since we’re at a four-way stop in the center of town. There are passersby walking along the sidewalks on each side of the street, cars parked along the roads on either side, parallel parked at that. I’m not a bad driver, but if you put me on the spot where you have to street park between two vehicles, I will literally drive right by and find another spot or drive my happy ass home.

“Pretty cool?” I question. “No way. Amazing is more like it, unless we’re talking Tim Burton’s Labyrinth. He’s currently doing exhibitions all over the world; sadly, not here though.” I’m probably coming off super obsessed with how I’m feeling about all of the fun stuff we’re seeing, but honestly, when I’m not working, you can find me watching Tim Burton movies. It doesn’t matter the age or if it’s a movie or series. I’m hooked until I’ve gone through a binge session.

“I take it your favorite holiday is Halloween?” Amos asks as we continue our trek, leaving the area that’s decorated the most .

“One hundred percent. You know how people leave out a Santa all year long because they love Christmas, and it’s supposed to bring good luck?” I follow up his question with my own.

“Not sure I’ve heard of that theory, but continue.” His hand goes to mine, bringing it up to his mouth to place a kiss on the back. Then he places my hand on his thigh. God, I love the way he makes me feel.

“Well, it’s a thing. At least for some people. Anyways, I keep a pumpkin out all year long while I anticipate that first whiff of fall air, ready to decorate my entire apartment with everything Halloween and fall décor. You really didn’t know this? I for sure thought Sienna would tell you how obsessed I am with this part of my life.” When she realized my love for pumpkins, ghosts, and all things spooky, it was her who suggested we throw in some new holiday pottery. We’re working on what we’ll bring in for the Christmas season in the upcoming weeks seeing as how Halloween is upon us.

“Nah, my baby sister is a vault. It’s why it took her so many years to tell me about Trey when I knew all along. Then there was her not saying a single word about Two Chicks,” Amos replies.

“You’re right. We had many a conversation about the two of them. Then she’d turn the tables on me and, well, let’s just say I learned quickly to stay tight lipped until she brought it up. Anyways, when we get back, it’s going to be time for us to rework the storefront.” I rub my hands together, excited to decorate, and then we’ll be getting ready for Arrowleaf’s trunk or treat. All the stores will open for the evening. Parents and children can walk through the area, collect candy, walk around with a beer or wine, and shop. It’s the town’s first ever event where they close off the street to do something like this. It’s similar to what Midnight Falls does, only they do it year-round.

“You need help moving shit around, you call your man. I get you and Sienna can do a lot on your own, but you both got people in your corner, me specifically.” I’d like to say I roll my eyes and stand on business with ‘I’m an independent woman.’ Except my tendencies for spilling, breaking, and trying not to trip have been a fun experience to say the least. Half of the time, Sienna and Amos are saving my bacon.

“I’d need your number in order to call you, Amos,” I decide to tease him a bit. Yes, I’ve known Amos for a while because of Sienna, but I’ve never needed his number, not in this capacity.

“I’ll be rectifying that as soon as we make it to Clay’s place.” My chest deflates with his statement.

“Okay.” I’d much rather stay in town for the night and watch the festivities take place. Sadly, Amos is here for a work trip, which means he’s more than likely on a schedule. Maybe next time he makes the journey down here, I can tag along and persuade him to take an extra couple of days.