Martha nodded, the tears cascading down her cheeks as she took the stunning bouquet of pink oriental lilies and large roses hand-tied with eucalyptus.
‘They are my absolute favourites, thank you.’
‘Now please enjoy your meal. Once again, happy birthday, Martha.’
There was jovial chatter all around as the guests picked up their knives and forks and tucked into their first course. Nolan returned to Bea, who had her hand on her heart. ‘That was a beautiful speech and those flowers are gorgeous.’
‘I left the birthday painting on the boat but I’ll drop it off to her later in the week.’
Bea’s eyes widened. ‘Say that again?’
‘I said I’ll drop it off later in the week.’
‘But just then … when you disappeared … I thought you’d slipped away without saying goodbye.’
‘Hang on a minute, youtoldme to slip away without saying goodbye,’ he said, grinning.
‘I know but it’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind.’
‘And what about a man? Can he change his mind too?’
Bea’s heart was racing. ‘Are you trying to tell me something?’ Under the table she had her fingers crossed.
‘Since I arrived in Heartcross, life hasn’t been quite the same. I wonder why that is?’
‘Hopefully me,’ said Bea, not holding back.
‘I know I’m still a little way short of healing from my past but I think with your help that may become easier.’
‘Are you telling me you’re actually staying?’
Nolan nudged her elbow. ‘Early this afternoon I had a meeting with Flynn…’
‘About?’
‘Opening up my own art gallery in the village. He’s given me some ideas. Apparently the barns on this side of Foxglove Farm are going to be turned into small retail shops. One is already occupied – Buttercup Barn, which is a florist – but there are two more available. The other option would be to anchor The Hemingway outside The Little Blue Boathouse and convert the whole boat into a gallery to display my paintings.’
‘Are you serious? Does that mean you’re staying?’ Bea could feel herself tearing up. ‘Because rumour has it that once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave Heartcross,’ she added, knowing she definitely had no intention of moving anywhere else any time soon. ‘It’s a magical place and has already captured my heart in more ways than one.’ She nudged Nolan lightly with her shoulder.
‘I think it’s about time I stop sailing away from my past and hold on to the good memories. I think I’m happier now ... and I mean, look at this place, who wouldn’t want to be part of this community?’
Bea let out a squeal. ‘This is brilliant. I was dreading today and now…’ She closed her eyes and put both hands on her heart. ‘But now, it’s just the best day.’
Opening her eyes, she knew she had a huge grin on her face. Nolan kissed her on her lips.
‘You gave me a reason to start believing in the living again. It’s been a hell of a few years ... but anyway, without Fernsby there’s no Hemingway and Fernsby, and I think they go perfectly together.’
‘You’ll get no arguments from me on that one.’
Bea couldn’t wipe the grin off her face as she smiled over at Isla, who gave her a wink and whispered, ‘I’m so glad everyone is getting their happy ever afters. Granny and Mum back together, Granny at peace with Morgan, knowing he was in love with her… Life twists and turns in mysterious ways but I would say fate brought you and Nolan to the River Heart. All this is meant to be.’
‘I agree,’ mouthed Bea.
* * *
Three hours later, Bea was amazed to see the crowds of people lining the riverbanks. She’d never seen anything quite like it. Everyone had got into the spirit of the day, with flags waving high and cheers that rippled across the water.
There were photographers positioned along the bridge between Heartcross and Glensheil, ready to capture every boat in the parade; the radio station was broadcasting from the top of an open-air bus; and as soon as The Hemingway joined the front, the parade could begin.
