Chapter 41

• The scent of woodsmoke and simmering rosemary hung in the air as Cleo and Rowan sat on their porch swing, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across their small garden. The rhythmic creak of the swing became a soothing soundtrack to their quiet contentment. The grand opening of "Earth & Hues" had been a whirlwind of activity, a blur of happy customers, and a tangible sense of accomplishment. Now, the quiet aftermath offered a space for reflection, for a deeper understanding of what they had achieved, and what they had to look forward to.
• Cleo leaned her head against Rowan’s shoulder, the warmth of his body a comforting presence. He gently stroked her hair, his fingers tracing the delicate tendrils that framed her face. The unspoken words hung between them, a silent acknowledgment of their shared journey, the challenges overcome, and the love that had sustained them through it all. It had been more than just a business venture; it had been a testament to their resilience, their commitment to each other, and their unwavering belief in their shared dream.
• “Remember that first investor meeting?” Cleo murmured, a slight tremor in her voice. “The one who called my art ‘too niche’?”