‘Flynn?’ replied Julia.
‘The Little Blue Boathouse. I believe Wilbur has finally retired and Flynn is looking for help over the summer. He said you have some posters advertising the vacancy that we could put up around the village? I can pin one up in the farm shop.’
‘Perfect. Thank you.’ Julia pulled open the drawer of the filing cabinet behind the reception desk and took out a couple of flyers. ‘The summer is the busiest time for the Boathouse and with the River Festival fast approaching the boats will soon start to sail in.’
‘River Festival?’ chipped in Bea, listening to the conversation. ‘And what exactly is The Little Blue Boathouse? It sounds absolutely divine.’
‘The River Festival is like a mini festival on the water. Yachts and vintage houseboats sail into the harbour from far and wide. The most amazing firework display sets the sky alight to music and there’s numerous stalls on the banks of the River Heart,’ explained Isla.
‘It’s an amazing sight, a mini St Tropez,’ added Julia, ‘and The Little Blue Boathouse is owned by my partner, Flynn. His father, Wilbur, was in charge but has finally agreed to take well-deserved retirement … with a little bit of persuasion. It’s the hub of all water sports for the tourists – wetsuit hire, kayaking, paddleboarding, rowing boats, et cetera. It’s a massive hit with the locals too. There’s also the river taxis, which provide excursions and a direct taxi to The Lakehouse.’
‘I’ve heard of The Lakehouse. The famous celebrity restaurant.’ Bea had stumbled across it on social media.
‘The very one,’ replied Julia, handing over the flyers to Isla. ‘No real experience is necessary, just good people skills and the willingness to work their backside off for the summer.’
Hearing those words, the cogs quickly turned over in Bea’s mind. ‘Could I possibly take a look at one of those?’ She gestured towards the flyers.
Isla handed one over whilst Julia chatted away. ‘I’m going to have to leave Eleni in charge of this place for the next couple of weeks whilst I try and help Flynn find the perfect candidate.’
‘But surely this is your busiest time with the tourists and the summer holidays?’ probed Isla.
‘It is, but with the River Festival, that water will be packed, especially in this gorgeous weather. It can’t afford to stay shut and lose income.’
Bea suddenly felt a wave of excitement. ‘I could help! I know I’ve only just arrived and I really don’t want to put anyone on the spot but…’ Bea glanced between the pair of them. Their eyes were on her.
‘What are you suggesting?’ asked Julia.
Bea placed both hands on her chest. ‘I could do it,’ she enthused, knowing this could be exactly what she needed to throw herself into in order to get over her current situation. A busy couple of weeks would be perfect for helping her take her mind off things.
‘We can’t ask that of you, you’re here for a holiday,’ declared Julia, reaching across and touching her arm. ‘But thank you, that is such a kind offer.’ She smiled warmly at Bea.
‘A two-week working holiday may be just what I need though. What if I say you would be doing me a favour as much as I would be doing you one? If I’m being honest, it will keep me occupied. Otherwise, I may be left sitting around, wallowing and thinking about the reason I’m here.’
Isla looked puzzled. ‘What have I missed?’
‘Heartbreak,’ replied Bea. ‘A cheating fiancé. In fact, I should say ex-fiancé. I’ve just tossed the ring in the river.’
‘You haven’t,’ exclaimed Isla, giving a tiny gasp.
‘I have, and I was planning on taking this time to work out what to do with my life and where I go from here. I’m good with money and I have customer service skills as I’ve worked in a supermarket since leaving school.’
Bea realised the second she’d said those words that she felt a little disappointed in herself. Why had she settled in a job that didn’t excite her? She was once ambitious, made plans to travel and work abroad. There was a time she’d wanted to stretch her wings from the town she’d been brought up in, but Carl had squashed any ambition in her, always telling her she didn’t really want to do that, and a nice steady reliable income was what they needed. The supermarket had been within walking distance of their rented home and came with the bonus of a hefty discount on food and alcohol. Bea had worked long night shifts. It was very rare that she saw much of the day.
‘And your grandmother did say one day my ship will come in. Maybe this is a sign. I’m destined to find love on the water,’ joked Bea, who had no intention of going near a man anytime soon, unless Harry Styles fell across her path and declared his undying love for her, of course. He was the only exception to the rule and, realistically, Bea knew she had more chance of winning the lottery.
Still pleading her case, she continued, ‘Honestly, I’m a hard worker. Maybe I could do a trial shift for free?’ Bea put her hands together in a prayer-like pose. ‘Please, give me a chance.’
Isla nodded towards Julia. ‘What have you got to lose?’
Julia thought for a moment. ‘Are you sure? I really would feel bad putting you out.’
Bea held both hands up and crossed her fingers. ‘Absolutely sure!’
‘Okay, a free trial it is and I won’t be offended if you change your mind.’
Bea clapped her hands. ‘I don’t think there’s much chance of that. This is just what I need.’
‘But take the next day to settle in and go and do some exploring. The Little Blue Boathouse is open from 9am to 6pm but has extended hours on Saturday evening. It also closes for an hour over lunchtime.’
