As introductions continued and Matt moved toward the grill to say hello to Frank, Isabel noticed the color that had risen to Lynda’s cheeks, and the way her friend’s eyes followed the veterinarian’s progress across the yard.
“You know,” Isabel said casually, “Matt was asking about your work in Denver. He’s impressed with what you’ve done.”
Lynda shrugged. “He’s just being polite. Given their limited resources, his work at the animal shelter is far more impressive.”
“I think it’s more than that,” Kathleen added. “He pays close attention to everything you say.”
Lynda’s eyes widened. “Don’t even think about waving your fairy godmother’s wand in my direction. I’m happy just the way I am.”
Kathleen tapped her chin with her finger. “Where have I heard that before?”
Isabel hid a smile. She was enjoying the rare sight of Lynda being flustered. “He seems like a good person,” she said.
“I’m not looking for anything like that,” Lynda said firmly, though her gaze strayed again to where Matt was now helping Tommy arrange burger buns on a plate. “I came to Sapphire Bay for a fresh start, not a relationship.”
“So did I,” Isabel reminded her, which earned her a pointed look from her friend.
Before Lynda could reply, Tommy came bounding up the porch steps, his eyes bright with excitement. “Grandpa said we can look at the kittens tomorrow, Isabel, but I want you to come, too. Can we go see them? Please?”
Frank walked toward them with a plate of grilled burgers, an amused expression on his face. “I know how busy you are, so I told Tommy we’d need to check with you first.”
Isabel smiled. “I could meet you there at three o’clock.”
“Yeah!” Tommy said excitedly. “I can’t wait.”
Matt joined them on the veranda. “I’m assuming that Tommy’s got the go-ahead to see the kittens?”
Frank nodded. “Will you be there?”
Matt nodded. “I’m rostered on until five o’clock. I’m sure Lynda wouldn’t mind showing you around if I’m busy, right?” He turned to Lynda with a warm smile.
“Of course not,” Lynda told Tommy. “If it isn’t too busy, I can give you another guided tour.”
“Then it’s settled,” Frank said, placing the plate on the outdoor table. “Now, who’s hungry?”
As everyone gathered around the table, Isabel stood back and enjoyed the moment. This was everything she’d come to Sapphire Bay to find. She had friends she adored, a house that made her happy each time she saw it, and a job that gave her purpose.
“Do you need anything else brought outside?” Frank asked quietly, his hand brushing hers as he set down a stack of napkins.
Isabel smiled. “I think we’ve got everything.” Then she remembered something. “Oh, actually—could you remind me later to show you the story I’ve been working on?”
Frank’s eyebrows rose with interest. “The mystery novel you mentioned?”
Isabel nodded. She hadn’t told many people about her writing project—just Frank and Lynda so far. The idea had come to her three weeks ago during a quiet afternoon at the bookstore, and before she knew it, she’d filled a notebook with character sketches and plot ideas.
“I finished the first three chapters last night,” she admitted. “I’m not sure if it’s any good, but I’d love you to read it.”
“I’d be honored,” Frank said with an encouraging smile. “A small-town bookstore owner who solves crimes is a brilliant idea for a heroine.”
Isabel laughed softly. “She’s not exactly me. Hannah is much braver, for one thing.”
“You’re selling yourself short in the bravery department,” Frank murmured with eyes that were warm with admiration.
“You have to give me unbiased feedback, though. If you don’t tell me what I could do to improve the story, it won’t get any better.”
Frank grinned. “It’s a deal.”
After they’d enjoyed a delicious lunch, Isabel went inside to take the apple crumble out of the oven. Frank followed her, carrying a stack of empty plates.
