‘Can you believe they travel in for just one song?’ said Clemmie.
‘The song was beautiful. It was captivating.’ Verity was still in awe.
‘He writes them himself. Very talented individual. He always finishes off open mic night for Cora and Dan.’ Clemmie twirled back round on her chair. ‘I suppose I’d better settle my bill and head to bed. I’m up at the crack of dawn, ready for the breakfast run at the tearoom. Where’s Amelia disappeared to?’
‘She’s just gone out the back door. And I suppose I should try and bed down for at least a few hours before I go.’ Verity heard her voice wobble.
‘Aww, don’t get emotional.’ Clemmie leaned in and gave her a hug.
‘I don’t know what’s come over me,’ she replied, fanning a napkin in front of her face.
‘It’ll be a combination of things: the postcard, finding out we’re actually real, knowing this place held a special place in your granny’s heart. She’s probably even had a drink at this bar.’
That thought had already crossed Verity’s mind. She’d also pictured her granny ambling down Lighthouse Lane, collecting sea glass from the beach, paddling at the water’s edge.
‘It feels a little surreal. I really do hope your grandmother might remember her.’
‘We hope so and you’ll be back.’
‘I will, I know I will.’
Amelia had returned to the bar. Clemmie paid her bill then turned towards Verity, giving her one last squeeze. ‘Have a safe journey and I’ll be in touch.’ She headed out.
‘I need to pay my bill, too,’ said Verity.
Amelia grinned. ‘Your bill has been taken care of.’
‘Oh no, did Clemmie pick up the tab?’ Verity looked towards the door but it had just swung shut behind her new friend. ‘I didn’t thank her. That was very kind, I wasn’t expecting that.’
‘It had been taken care of long before Clemmie left.’
‘Huh? I don’t understand.’
Amelia leaned in towards her and gave her a delightful gaze. ‘You’ll be the envy of every girl on this island. Sam settled your bill.’
‘Why would he do that?’ Verity’s pulse began to race and she couldn’t stop smiling.
‘Because it’s a nice gesture…or did I miss something?’ Amelia narrowed her eyes at Verity, who shrugged and repressed a smile.
‘Mmm, how long have you been on this island? You’re already crushing on one of the locals, and it seems like it’s reciprocated.’
‘You’ve either got it or you haven’t.’ Verity laughed. Getting involved with a sexy restaurant owner was not part of her plan when she left Staffordshire. Even a fling on a very small island was probably not a good idea. But Sam had given her an all-over warm, fuzzy feeling, she’d liked flirting with him, and of course it helped that he was drop-dead gorgeous. And when he gave her that wolfish grin of his, it had made her wonder what it would be like to spend the night in the arms of Sam Wilson.
‘It’s a lovely gesture.’
‘I’ve worked behind this bar for a fair few years and the only bill I’ve ever known him to settle is his own.’
‘That little piece of information is good to know.’
‘I still think there’s something you aren’t telling me.’ The sound of curiosity was evident in Amelia’s tone.
‘I have no clue what you’re talking about.’ Verity jumped down from the stool. ‘Now give me a hug.’
‘Look at you, you can’t stop smiling.’ Amelia lifted up the bar hatch, walked towards her and stepped into her arms. ‘Whilst you’re travelling the world we’ll try and uncover the mystery of the postcard, but I’ve got a feeling you’ll be back very soon.’
‘I think you may be right. Thank you for this evening. I’ll keep in touch.’
Verity followed the crowd out of the pub. Outside on the cobbled street everyone dispersed in different directions. Still smiling, Verity walked back towards the harbour, taking in the amazing view. It was entirely lit up and looked enchanting. Everywhere was peaceful. All she could hear was the gentle lapping of the waves on the sandy bay, their rhythm seeming to slow as the day drew to a close. Fairy lights draped between poles twinkled all along the harbour front, all the way to the Cosy Kettle, where a café board advertised their speciality hot chocolate. From there the lights led on to the small wooden jetty and up to The Sea Glass Restaurant. A couple was walking hand in hand from the floating restaurant to the bay.
