“That’s very kind of you.” She handed him two of the lighter ones. “I was just about to set out some wine and appetizers for the guests. Would you care for a glass?”
“That sounds wonderful, actually.” He followed her to the door. “Would you consider joining me? I’d love to hear more about the island.”
“I could take a few minutes, yes.” She led the way into the kitchen, setting her bags on the counter. “Just give me a few minutes to arrange everything.”
He placed his bags next to hers. “Can I help?”
“You’re sweet to offer, but you’re my guest. Please, make yourself comfortable on the porch. I’ll bring everything out shortly.”
He nodded and headed back outside while she began unpacking the groceries. She pulled out the cheese she’d purchased, along with fresh grapes, crackers, and two bottles of wine. Within minutes, she had arranged everything on her grandmother’s silver serving tray.
Darlene balanced the silver tray as she stepped onto the porch. The late afternoon breeze carried the scent of jasmine from her garden, and the setting sun painted the sky in soft peach and rose. Mrs. Clifton and the Hendersons sat at the far end, deep in conversation about local restaurants.
“Would anyone care for some wine?” she asked, approaching them first. Mrs. Clifton accepted a glass of white wine with a warm smile, while the Hendersons declined politely, explaining they had dinner reservations in town.
Darlene made her way to where Mark sat, the tray now lighter. “I have a lovely cabernet or a crisp sauvignon blanc. Do you have a preference?”
“The cabernet would be perfect, thank you.” Mark closed his notebook and set it aside.
She poured his wine, then settled into the chair beside him with her own glass of sauvignon blanc. The wooden rocker creaked softly as she found her rhythm, matching the gentle sway of the porch fans overhead.
Mark lifted his glass. “To Magnolia Key and all it has to offer.”
“To Magnolia Key.” She clinked her glass softly with his.
Darlene settled deeper into her rocker, watching Mark take a thoughtful sip of his wine. The tension he’d carried in his shoulders when he first arrived had eased somewhat.
“The view from up at the top of the lighthouse…” He paused, swiveling his gaze out to the bay before turning back to her. “I spent nearly two hours just watching the waves. The boats coming and going. It gave me space to breathe.”
“Sometimes that’s all we need.” She sampled a grape from the cheese plate. “A change of perspective.”
“I even opened my notebook.” He glanced at the leather-bound journal beside his chair. “Didn’t write anything yet, but it’s the first time in… a very long time… I’ve felt like I could.”
“The island has a way of making people slow down. Relax.” She smiled, remembering countless guests who’d found their own piece of solace here. “Some people come here looking for answers, others just need rest. The key is letting go of expectations.”
“Sarah would have loved it here.” His voice softened. “She always said I worked too hard, that I needed to slow down more.”
“Sarah?”
But before he could answer, Felicity walked up to them. “Hey Gran. Glad to see you sitting down for a change.”
“Felicity, this is Mark Donovan. Mark, this is my granddaughter, Felicity. She’s been helping me run the B&B this summer.”
Mark rose and held out his hand. “Good to meet you, Felicity. Your grandmother has been incredibly welcoming.”
“That’s Gran for you. And it’s nice to meet you too.” Felicity shook his hand. “I hope you’re enjoying your stay so far?”
“Very much. The lighthouse visit today was exactly what I needed.”
“Oh, the lighthouse is one of my favorite spots.” Felicity’s face brightened. “Have you tried the walking trail that circles the small wildlife area beside it? The wildflowers are beautiful this time of year.”
“Not yet, but I’ll add it to my list.” He smiled, and Darlene noted how the expression reached his eyes this time. He turned to her. “I was wondering if after breakfast tomorrow you might like to go with me and do some more exploring.”
“Oh, I don’t know. There’s always so much to do.”
“And luckily, I’m here to help you,” Felicity interrupted. “Gran, you should go. You deserve to take a break. I’ll be here at the B&B and can handle anything that comes up.”
“You sure?”
