“I’m sure.”
“Then thank you. Would you like to sit and join us and have some wine?”
“Thanks, Gran, but I’m meeting Brent for dinner.” Felicity squeezed her grandmother’s shoulder. “Just wanted to let you know everything’s ready for the morning.”
“Thanks, dear. You and Brent have a nice time tonight.”
“I’m sure we will.” Felicity headed back inside.
“Must be nice having her here helping you.” Mark nodded toward Felicity’s retreating back.
“It has been. She was a teacher. Well, still is, but she’s not returning to the classroom this school year. She’s suffered some burnout.” Darlene smiled. “And she’s met a nice young man, Brent Dunn. They’ve been dating. I like seeing her so happy like she is now.”
“Well, I’m pleased she’ll watch the B&B for you tomorrow and that you decided to join me on some more exploring.”
“We could go to the wildlife area Felicity mentioned, and then if we head back towards the bay, there’s a pretty little cove.” She paused and looked at him. “We could… maybe… pack a lunch and have a picnic?” Suddenly, she was unsure of her spontaneous suggestion.
He hesitated the tiniest bit, nodded, then answered, “Yes, I’d like that.”
Chapter8
The next morning after breakfast, Darlene wiped down the counter, the scent of maple syrup and coffee still lingering in the kitchen. Felicity loaded the dishwasher, humming softly under her breath. It was comforting to have her company even if they mostly worked silently side by side.
“I think that’s everything from breakfast.” Felicity closed the dishwasher and turned it on. “What are you packing for your picnic with Mr. Donovan?”
“Just a few sandwiches and some fruit.” She placed the items in a wicker basket. “I don’t want to make a fuss.”
“Gran, it’s okay to enjoy yourself.” Felicity smiled. “You deserve a break.”
“I know, but running the B&B is a full-time job.”
“And I’m here to help.” Felicity squeezed her grandmother’s hand. “Go, have fun. Explore the island with Mr. Donovan.”
She hesitated, then nodded. “Thank you, dear.”
Just then, Mark popped his head into the kitchen. “Good morning, Darlene. Felicity.”
“Good morning, Mark.” She finished packing the basket, tucking in a small container of cookies and a thermos of lemonade.
Felicity dried her hands on a towel. “Perfect timing, Mr. Donovan. Gran was just finishing up your picnic lunch.”
“Please, call me Mark.” He smiled. “And thank you, Darlene. You didn’t have to go to all this trouble.”
“It’s no trouble at all.” She picked up the basket.
“Gran, go.” Felicity made a shooing motion with her hands. “I’ll finish up here.”
“Are you sure?”
“Positive.” Felicity grinned. “Now, you two have a wonderful time.”
She glanced at Mark, who offered her a reassuring smile. She untied her apron and hung it on the hook by the door.
“Shall we?” Mark gestured toward the door.
Darlene nodded, feeling a flutter of—what?— in her chest. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d taken a day for herself. As they walked out of the kitchen, she glanced back at Felicity, who waved encouragingly.
The door creaked open, and she blinked against the bright morning sunlight. He held the screen door for her, his tall frame casting a shadow across the porch steps. She paused to breathe in the fresh coastal air, letting it calm her unexpected nerves. The familiar weight of the picnic basket grounded her as Mark led the way to where his car sat in the gravel driveway. His rental car gleamed in the morning sun, its silver paint job reflecting the cloudless sky above. A pair of cardinals darted past, red feathers bright against the green hedges bordering the driveway.
