“So you’re selling it to the village?” Charles asked. “I believe most of the funds had been raised—”
“No, not selling.” Alex shook his head. “I’ll retain ownership — to guard against any future moves to build on the land.” His lips twisted in a wry smile. “The site will be run by the village for the village. I’ve been in discussion — confidentially — with key individuals who’ll manage it. All the permissions, all the legalities, everything that’s needed to be sorted has been. I’s have been dotted, and t’s crossed. Conversion of the Jenkins land into something that will benefit the Harbour is a done deal. There’ll be an official announcement at the parish council meeting next week, and a notice will go into the village newsletter. But I wanted all of you to know first.”
“Oh, Alex, that’s wonderful news. I always knew you’d come to your senses, I just knew it.” Doreen dabbed her eyes with a tissue as she was enveloped in a hug by Joss and Oliver.
“That really is excellent news. Thank you.” Charles raised his glass.
“The village will be over the moon,” Eva said, beaming. “There was a big rush for plots when the allotment idea was originally announced. I think this calls for a celebratory drink.” Eva moved to pull pints and top up wine glasses, but Ryan stopped her.
“There’s more, Nan. We’ve got something else to say.” Ryan looked at Alex, who’d suddenly gone very red and was taking a great interest in his nails. His own face began to prickle with heat.
“I don’t know what else could…” Her words faded as her lips formed a tinyO.
Ryan exchanged a smile with Alex. “Shall I?”
Alex nodded.
“We, erm, what I—we want…” Ryan’s words stumbled to a stop, nerves tingling across his skin as he met the expectant eyes all focused on him. He had nothing to be nervous about, and everything to be proud of, but it didn’t stop the galloping beat of his heart. “We’ve been talking, Alex and me, and we’ve decided… No idea when, I mean, not for months because we’ve got the move to make into our new home first—”
“Stop rambling and spit it out.”
Ryan met Declan’s eye, and his wicked grin.
“Oh my god, you’re… you’re… You are, aren’t you?” Joss’ eyes widened.
Ryan nodded. His heart was too full, he couldn’t speak, and all he could do was feel for Alex’s hand.
“What he’s trying to say is that we’re getting married. Details, as they say, to be confirmed.”
Joss’ squeal was the flame to the powder keg. An explosion of congratulations engulfed them. Ryan hugged his nan hard. When she looked up, tears flowed down her cheeks but her smile was a beacon of joy.
“Oh, Ryan my love, didn’t I tell you that you’d know, in here, when you found the right one?” She pressed a palm over his heart.
“I know, Nan. But when it came to Alex, I think I always did.”
Eva nodded. “He’s come home,” she said quietly, looking across. “He’s found where he belongs, and what he truly wants and needs. And he’s not the only one. Come on, my love, let’s get the good glasses out because we’ve got something very special to celebrate.”
* * *
