The colors gleaming on the water, the enthusiastic crowd, the festive mood—all of it seemed enhanced this time. The colors seemed richer, the smells more intense, the music playing in perfect synchronicity to the boats on the water. Part of it had to do with the children’s wide-eyed delight. How could anybody be cynical when Ty squealed with excitement at each new boat and even Jazmyn clapped her hands at one boat that featured illuminated animatronic penguins throwing snowballs at each other? Devin was honest enough with herself to admit the children weren’t the only reason this particular parade seemed so perfect. The man seated beside her and the energy and awareness that sizzled through her whenever she was near him might have a little something to do with it. She was developing a serious thing for Cole Barrett. Throughout the parade, she couldn’t help sneaking little glances at him.
