“You won’t regret it. The shop is at the corner of Harbor and Main. Enjoy.”
“How much do I owe you?” She opened her wallet.
“Consider this a welcome home present. It’s wonderful to have you back.”
“But I’m only visiting.”
“You’re here. That’s what matters. Enjoy the tacos.”
She kept her wallet in hand. “Please let me pay, Charley. It doesn’t feel right to take your food for free.”
“You can pay on your next visit—assuming you’ll be back for more.”
“Count on it.”
After giving her a thumbs-up, he looked over her shoulder and lifted a hand in greeting. “Be with you in a minute, folks.”
Devyn turned.
Half a dozen people stood in line.
Whoops.
She picked up her bag. “Sorry I kept your other customers waiting.”
“No worries. No one in Hope Harbor gets bent out of shape at small delays. Take care, and stop by again soon.”
As Charley greeted the next person in line, Devyn walked over to Dockside Drive, crossed to the other side, and headed up Harbor Street, taking inventory as she strolled along.
Much about Hope Harbor remained the same as she remembered. Lou’s Bait and Tackle shop, Sweet Dreams bakery, and the Myrtle were all familiar landmarks—though Sweet Dreams had been spruced up quite a bit.
But there were changes too. In addition to The Perfect Blend, several new businesses had claimed space on Main, including a bookstore, what appeared to be a gift boutique, and a chocolate shop.
She’d have to explore the town as soon as the situation with Lauren was resolved.
Unless her sister sent her packing.
However ... for the next twenty minutes, before she trekked north to the hospital again, she was going to chill at the coffee shop.
She paused outside to read a humorous handwritten quote about politics on a triangle board in front, then entered and placed her order with a friendly woman whose short brown hair had a faint purple hue. Inhaling the comforting aroma of fresh-brewed java, she gave the shop a scan.
A freestanding fireplace in the center of the space was surrounded by cozy tables, and the walls sported a gallery of poster-sized, close-up nature shots.
She took a long, slow breath.
Charley was right. This place had a calming ambiance.
So much so that by the time she finished her excellent coffee and heavenly tacos twenty minutes later, she was ready to face her sister again.
But first, a walk around the block to work off a few of the calories she’d just ingested would be prudent.
After disposing of her trash, she set off down Main, slowing as she passed Chocolate Harbor next door. The tempting array of truffles in the window beckoned, but her three generous tacos were more than enough food at the moment.
Continuing along Main, she surveyed the gift shop across the street, with its display of eclectic merchandise and clever name. Eye of the Beholder. Hmm. Another spot she’d have to check out.
She dodged a couple strolling hand-in-hand down the quaint street, then circled around a family group.
The town appeared to be more bustling than in the past, imbued with a sense of vitality that energized the very air. Perhaps the new, unique businesses were contributing to the dynamic vibe.
