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“Mr. Thompson, hello,” a crisp, professional voice said. “This is Maya Bristol from the Burlington Free Press. I’m hoping to get some information about the Pride festival’s live streaming initiative to put up on our website.”
I sat up straighter, shifting into what Mickey called my library director voice. “Yes, of course. We’re very excited about the streaming initiative.”
As I listened to the reporter’s questions, Mickey mouthed need to go and gestured toward the diner’s counter. I nodded, giving him a grateful smile as he slipped away.
“The live streaming allows us to share Maplewood’s Pride festival with people who might not be able to attend in person,” I explained, mentally thanking Wade for their thorough briefings. “In particular, we’re happy we can share with anyone who may not have a Pride celebration where they live, as well as those who may not be comfortable or feel safe attending Pride.”
“That’s fantastic,” Maya said. “I’m going to be there this afternoon for the opening ceremony. I’d love to talk to you and Ethan Gallagher. Would you both be available?”
My heart did a little flip at the mention of Ethan’s name. “I’ll need to check with him, but I don’t see why not. The ceremony ends at twelve thirty—would twelve forty-five work? I’d also like to have you talk to Wade Connor. They’re our streaming coordinator. Without them and the volunteer crew they put together, we wouldn’t be able to do it.”
“I’d love to get some comments from them too.” She paused and I heard typing in the background.
After arranging a few more details, I ended the call and checked the time—eight forty-five. The morning was slipping away fast. I still needed to stop by the library to finish some things before heading to Maplewood City Park’s amphitheater for final prep on the ceremony.
I swiped to my messages and hovered my thumb over Ethan’s name. Should I text him about the reporter? Or say good morning?
Before I decided, Ingrid appeared with the check. “Mickey said to put it on the house, but he knew you’d argue about that.”
“He knows me too well.” I handed her my card. “Tell him thank you, though.”
As I waited for her to return, I typed out a message to Ethan.
Andre: Good morning! Thanks again for last night. I had the best time. Wanted to let you know that a reporter from Burlington wants photos and a quick interview after the ceremony. Around 12:45? Is that okay?
I’d barely set the phone down when it buzzed. I fumbled picking it up, and it skittered off the table onto the floor, taunting me as Ethan’s name flashed on the screen. Ingrid scooped it up as she returned with my card and the receipt.
“Looks like that was a soft landing.” She placed everything on the table.
“Thank goodness.” The phone appeared unharmed.
“Hope you have an amazing opening this afternoon.”
I smiled and thanked her before she headed over to a group that had sat down a couple of tables over.
The phone buzzed again, urging me to read the waiting message. As if it was possible to forget.
Ethan: Perfect timing. On a break from the morning camp session. 12:45 works. I more than enjoyed last night. Can’t wait to see you later.
He punctuated the message with a heart emoji.
It made me smile like a teenager with a crush.
“What’s got you smiling, son?”
I looked up from my phone to find Dad and Sato standing next to the table. I jumped up to hug them.
“It’s great to see you! I didn’t expect to see you until the opening ceremony based on your late-night text.”
“As exhausted as we were, we got hungry,” Dad said.
“Um, no. Be honest, Ray.” Sato cocked an eyebrow at Dad. “You got hungry and woke me up so you’d have company.” He leaned in and kissed Dad’s cheek.
“He’s not wrong.” Dad kissed Sato back. “Luckily he loves me so he came along with me. Good timing too, finding you here. Figured you’d be running around with final checks.”
“Actually, things are in good shape.”
“That’s good news. It also means you can tell us what brought that smile to your face.” He smirked at Sato, who also turned to me with a glint in his eye. “Could it have anything to do with the picture in Maplewood Matters of you and Ethan Gallagher under a tent?”
