Jewel laughed. “Well, those paintings didn’t do too well in California. Too urbane and cliché. So I just stored them in the back room of my gallery. Now I’m glad I saved them. I think they fit a farmhouse motif.”
“Well, I just love them.” Honey shook her finger. “In my opinion, they’re neither urbane nor cliché. They’re like real life ... only better. They’re beautiful.”
“I have more paintings if you’d like any for your house,” Jewel said.
“I’d love a few pieces.”
“They’re in the barn. I’ll show you when we both have time.” She took another step off the porch. “Marta is bringing over dinner,” Jewel told her. “I hope you and Dad will join us.”
“If your dad feels up to it, I’d love to.”
“I think he’s finally gotten over his trouble with Miguel. In fact, he seems to really like him.”
“It’s about time.” Honey smiled. “That’s quite an accomplishment. In a way, bringing people together and healing relationships, well, that’s probably more valuable than all the renovations you’ve done here. More amazing too.”
Jewel’s nod was somber. “I agree.”
“Anyway, I won’t distract you any more. Looks like you’re closing in on the end. And the exterior of the Honey Bee and Bee really does look grand. It’s a color I never would’ve picked and yet it feels right.”
“It’s actually historically correct for this house. I looked it up.”
“Well, it’s very rich and inviting.” She patted Jewel’s back. “Nicely done. I’m going to check on your dad and then my old friend Donna is coming for a little visit.”
“Good for you, Mom. It’s about time you started having a social life again.”
As Honey walked around to check on CT, her feelings were a little less mixed, and she didn’t feel disingenuous either, because everything she’d said to Jewel was true. She just hadn’t described all her feelings, because there was no point. Plus, she was certain that she would get over it in time. Change was supposed to be good. And even if it wasn’t good, it was inevitable. So she might as well move on!
After finding CT sitting in his lawn chair, in the shade, she gave him a fresh bottle of water, kissed him on the forehead, and reminded him not to overdo it. Then she headed back to Honeymoon Cottage just in time to see Donna’s little electric car pulling into the driveway. That Donna, always cutting-edge. Honey waved, directing her friend toward the graveled parking area right next to the new house.
“Come and see my new digs,” she said as they embraced. “I even baked cookies.”
“This is cute.” Donna paused to look around. “Really, really cute.”
“You can attribute the cuteness to Jewel. She’s so gifted at these things.” Honey pointed to the old farmhouse. “After we have a good visit, I’ll give you the full tour of all the amazing changes she’s made over there.” As they went onto the covered front deck, Honey explained about the B&B that was “coming soon.”
Donna laughed when she heard the name. “That’s perfect.” She looked around, taking in the potted plants and rockers. “This is so charming, Honey.”
“Thanks. It makes me happy.” Honey pointed to the field. “And the wide-open view. It’s my peaceful place.” She opened the front door. “Welcome to Honeymoon Cottage.” She giggled. “CT and Jewel came up with that, but I like it.” She gave Donna a short tour of the small house, and Donna thought it was all just wonderful.
“I’m so happy for you. This place really is perfect for you and CT. Low maintenance and one level. It was a brilliant plan. Well done.”
“Again, I have to give credit to Jewel. Her idea.” They sat down at the kitchen table where Honey had laid out refreshments. “To be honest, I had my doubts at first.”
“Was it hard to let go of your old house?”
Honey explained how she’d just been feeling. “But CT and I are both having to let go of so many things ... it’s just one more.”
“Well, having this sweet cottage is a pretty nice swap.” Donna pursed her lips. “But I’m guessing you can’t keep CT here indefinitely. Have you looked into any of those places I texted to you?”
“I haven’t really had time.” Honey frowned. “Truthfully, I just haven’t wanted to do that yet. I know the time will probably come ... but I hate to rush it. For CT’s sake. He still enjoys the farm.” She explained how he was “helping” to paint and how he liked to rearrange things and feel occupied. “And needed. He wants to feel necessary.”
“I totally understand.” Donna nodded. “But how about the resources I gave you for help in your home, you know, to give you a break? Have you looked into those?”
“I’ve made a list. But I’m hoping once all the renovating is done around here, I can count on Jewel and Cooper to step in sometimes. They’re both willing.”
“That’s good. But you might want some kind of nurse’s aide eventually.”
“I know. And like I said, I’ve made a list. Thanks so much for sending me those references. It’s reassuring to know they’re out there, especially in our small community.”
