Bellinger Sisters, #1
It Happened One Summer
by Tessa Bailey
Contents
Chapter Twenty-Three
Overview
Rosie and Dominic revel in a renewed, affectionate routine, and Dominic recreates their first date by taking Rosie ice-skating, where he proposes with her mother’s restored ring. Buoyed by progress on the restaurant, Rosie later discovers a house blueprint listing them as owners, triggering suspicion about Dominic’s finances and prompting her to investigate.
Summary
Rosie spends a joyous week with Dominic, their intimacy and playfulness fully rekindled. Dominic’s newly open communication reassures Rosie, making her feel seen and cherished. He surprises her at the supermarket, announces an impromptu long weekend, and suggests a symbolic ice-skating date, mirroring their first official outing.
At the harbor rink, they reminisce about early moments and Dominic’s protective devotion. He proposes with Rosie’s mother’s ring, now restored, vowing to start stronger. Rosie accepts, and they collapse into laughter after a clumsy attempt to embrace on the ice, sealing their renewed commitment.
Back home, Rosie leans into her restaurant dream. She sources décor with Bethany, experiments in the kitchen, and grows confident as Dominic, Stephen, and Travis work on remodeling, supported by plans from Stephen’s office. Daily life feels hopeful and grounded in shared effort.
Seeking the restaurant blueprint, Rosie instead finds a house plan for a Port Jefferson property listing both their names as owners. Realizing she hasn’t questioned how Dominic afforded the ring, materials, and rapid progress, she becomes alarmed. Driven by doubt and curiosity, Rosie takes the address and drives to see the house.
Who Appears
- Rosie VegaNewly re-engaged to Dominic; enjoys rekindled intimacy and restaurant planning; discovers a house blueprint with their names and goes to investigate.
- Dominic RussoRosie’s husband; affectionate and communicative; initiates ice-skating date and proposes with restored ring; his hidden house purchase surfaces.
- StephenDominic’s colleague; calls Dominic during a missed workday; associated with the blueprints and renovation planning.
- BethanyFriend who shops antiques with Rosie for the restaurant’s décor.
- TravisFriend assisting Dominic and Stephen with restaurant repairs and remodeling.