Mitch and Lori both straightened slightly, focusing on the voices coming through their earpieces. They could hear Sally’s surprised gasp, followed by her dismayed cry.
“My latte! Oh no, it’s all over my shirt.”
“I’m so, so sorry,” Marcus said, his voice full of genuine-sounding remorse. “Please, let me buy you a new one. And I’ll pay for your dry cleaning. I really wasn’t paying attention.”
“It’s all right,” Sally said, but she didn’t sound happy. “These things happen.”
“No, I insist,” Marcus said firmly. “Please. Let me at least replace your coffee. I feel terrible.”
There was a pause, and Mitch could picture Marcus turning on his full charm. That smile that made everyone trust him. Those warm, intelligent eyes that made people feel like they were the most interesting person in the world.
“Well... all right,” Sally said, her voice warming considerably. “Thank you. That’s very kind.”
“It’s the least I can do,” Marcus said. “After you.”
They could hear footsteps, the sound of a door opening, the sudden increase in ambient noise as they entered the coffee shop. Mitch and Lori listened as Marcus ordered Sally a new latte and got himself a cappuccino. He made small talk with the barista, complimented the shop, and asked about local recommendations.
Then the drinks were ready, and Marcus suggested they sit at one of the outdoor tables since it was such a beautiful morning.
“I’m Marcus Hayes, by the way,” he said once they were settled.
“Sally Lane,” Sally replied. “Are you visiting Nantucket?”
“I am,” Marcus said. “I’m here for a few weeks visiting an old friend. Mitch Brandon. Do you know him?”
There was a beat of silence. Mitch could imagine Sally’s expression changing, her interest sharpening.
“Yes, I know Mitch,” Sally said, and there was something in her voice that Mitch couldn’t quite identify. Warmth?Possessiveness? “We... well, we dated for a while. We met through my brother, who knows Mitch well.”
“Really?” Marcus said, sounding pleasantly surprised. “Small world.”
Sally laughed, the sound a bit forced. “Well, we’re not together anymore. Mitch and I... we just didn’t work out.”
“That is his loss,” Marcus said smoothly. “I think I could find a way to make it work with a person like you. You’re beautiful, forgiving, and have such kind eyes.”
They talked for a while longer. Marcus asked Sally about Nantucket, about what there was to do on the island, about how long she’d lived here. Sally opened up, clearly enjoying the attention from this handsome, charming stranger who knew Mitch and seemed genuinely interested in her.
Mitch had to hand it to Marcus. He was good at this. He knew exactly when to ask a question, when to share something about himself, when to laugh, and when to be serious. He was weaving a web, and Sally was walking right into it.
Twenty minutes passed. Mitch checked his watch. It was almost time for their part.
“This has been lovely,” Marcus said through the earpiece. “I hate to cut it short, but I should get going. I’m supposed to pick up some things for the barbecue we’re having tonight.” There was a pause. “And then I’m supposed to meet them back at the parking lot.”
“Barbecue?” Sally asked.
“Yes, Mitch is hosting. It’s just a casual thing with his neighbors, son, and granddaughter. I told him I’d handle dessert, so I need to find a good bakery.”
“There’s an excellent one just down the street,” Sally offered. “They make the most amazing pies.”
“Perfect,” Marcus said. “Would you... I know this is forward, but would you like to join us tonight? For the barbecue? I’m sure Mitch wouldn’t mind.”
There was a pause. Mitch could picture Sally weighing her options, wanting to say yes but not wanting to seem too eager. That was also their cue.
Mitch stood and grabbed the shopping bags. He offered his arm to Lori. “Ready?”
Lori nodded, taking a deep breath. “As I’ll ever be.”
“Relax,” Mitch said softly. Then, making a split-second decision, he leaned in and kissed her.
