‘How’s it going with you two?’ Ginny asked, gesturing towards Jamie.
Alice smiled inside and out. ‘Great. He’s really settled.’
‘And you?’
‘Yep, me too.’
Ginny nudged her arm. ‘Come on then, chick, let’s get over to the pub to find out what Demi has planned. We might need to clear some fridge space in your kitchen. We can use the tearoom and café as well, if need be. Lots of fridge space in both.’
Alice went to tell Jamie she was popping to the Jolly Pirate.
‘Before you go,’ he said, motioning at a back wall. ‘Where do you think the wedding cake should go?’
Lottie opted for the corner. ‘We wouldn’t want anyone knocking it over.’
‘Or it could be wheeled in from the kitchen,’ said Spencer.
Lottie scoffed. ‘They stand more chance of toppling when on the move. Corner, I say.’
Sophie walked in with Jed. ‘There’s more room in here than I remember,’ she said softly, her eyes red and puffy.
Jed gave his granddaughter a hug. ‘I thought it best to bring our Sophie along to see what will be done. Settle her a touch.’
Alice leaned in to give her a hug as well. ‘You won’t recognize the place by the time we’re finished.’
Jed chuckled. ‘We already love the Nutcracker.’
‘He’s on loan,’ called Ginny, making everyone laugh.
Robson came out of the kitchen. ‘You go rest for your big day, Soph. Pamper session tomorrow, I hear.’
Sophie nodded. ‘I think I need a week in a spa now.’
‘No more worrying,’ said Jed. ‘You’ve seen for yourself now. Your mates have got it covered.’
‘We certainly have,’ said Lottie. ‘So, do as you’re told, and feet up.’
Sophie wrinkled her nose. ‘Fat chance. We’ve got huge seafood orders to get ready for our customers, and Matt’s in the shop by himself.’ She tugged her grandfather’s arm. ‘Okay, I’m ready. Let’s get back.’
Jed gave her a reassuring smile. ‘That’s my girl.’
Sophie stopped in the doorway. ‘Thank you all so much.’
Ginny waved her off. ‘No thanks needed. It’s what friends are for.’
Alice and Ginny followed Sophie and Jed as far as the pub, then parted ways to go see Demi in the kitchen.
‘I’ve got it covered,’ said Demi as soon as they entered, sitting them down to talk through her menu plans.
Alice made notes, took mental notes, and arranged to collect any decorations on offer that would add to the magical theme they were going for, then headed back to the B&B.
It certainly was a full-on day, though Alice enjoyed every moment, knowing how happy Sophie and Matt would be. She only wished she’d experienced such magic on her wedding day.
Alice watched Jamie while he helped move tables. What did it matter if they’d had a secret wedding with no guests or photos? They had each other. But it didn’t stop her wondering what it would have been like to walk down the aisle with him waiting for her.
As though sensing her moment of sadness, Jamie came over and put his arms around her waist. ‘You all right, Angel?’ he asked quietly.
‘Yeah, just pacing myself.’ She wasn’t sure he bought that, but he didn’t say anything. She got back to work, sorting through tablecloths.
