The Inn Crowd: An Enemies-to-Lovers Romantic Comedy by Melody Rush

Author:Melody Rush [Rush, Melody]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2023-10-19T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 15

Sarah Jane

Haden leads me by the hand down a cobblestone side street lined with charming shops and cafes. We stop in front of a small gallery with a bright red door, tucked away between a bookstore and an antique shop. My heart’s still racing, just by nature of being outside of the inn, but the idea of exploring this hidden gem, with Haden’s guidance, eases my nerves.

“Are you ready?” He watches me closely.

“You know what? I think I am,” I tell him, surprised by my own enthusiasm. He grins and pushes open the door, ushering me inside.

Natural light fills the art gallery, illuminating the paintings and sculptures that adorn its walls. The scent of oil paints and varnished wood disperses in the air.

It’s quiet. Small, but spacious. I don’t feel like I have to bump against or talk to any strangers, unless I want to. I’m outside of the inn, but unlike the food fair, this place feels like I can breathe.

Haden leads me through the space, stopping to admire the works of local artists.

“Look at this one,” he says, gesturing towards a stunning landscape painting. “It’s by Anna Kelleher. She specializes in depicting the beauty of the region.”

“Wow, it’s gorgeous.” I look at it up close, marveling at the way the colors blend together so seamlessly. “How do you know so much about these artists?”

Haden smiles, almost sheepishly. “I made it a point to learn about the local art scene when I came to town. Just curious, I guess. Then I got really into it. It’s amazing how much talent exists around here, right under our noses.”

The guy knows more about my local scene than I do. What a dork—and I’m not sure if I mean him or me.

As we continue to stroll through the gallery, Haden shares more tidbits about the artists whose work is on display. I’m impressed by his knowledge and passion for their craft. It’s clear that he genuinely appreciates their creativity and skill, and damn if that doesn’t just make him even more attractive in my eyes.

“Have you heard of Ingrid Sterling?” he asks, pointing to a series of vibrant paintings in a comic book style. “She’s been making waves in the art world lately.”

“Actually, I think I’ve seen her work on Instagram.” I recognize the bold shapes and lines. “Her style is so unique.”

“Definitely,” Haden agrees. “She was inspired by her grandmother, who was also an artist. It’s amazing how art can connect generations like that.”

“Not just art…” I think about Grandma Jane. Our version of a shared canvas is the inn. “This is helping me see a whole new perspective.”

Haden smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “I’m glad. There’s so much more to see and experience out here—and I want to show it all to you.”

We keep exploring the gallery and I’m drawn to a series of abstract paintings of sharp, layered colors and shapes. Each piece seems to hold a story of its own, inviting me to dive into its depths and lose myself in its world.

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