Jasmine quietly moved to the edge of the building and discreetly peeped her head round the corner. Jack had his hands on his hips, staring the woman down.
‘You can’t stop me being here,’ she said, her tone laced heavily with scorn. ‘Still looking out for Robin? He’s a big boy, Jack, and can look after himself.’
‘Robin can’t stand the sight of you,’ he replied with venom.
‘Really?’ came the sarcastic reply.
‘And there’s no way he wants you back,’ Jack rasped.
At this the woman gave a harsh laugh.
‘Well, we’ll see about that,’ she taunted, then turned her back and walked away.
Jasmine quickly returned to the bench and pulled out her phone, head bent down so as not to be noticed. She inconspicuously watched the woman strut past. She had an air of conviction about her; shoulders back, long legs in a short, red dress taking confident strides. So, this was the woman who had broken Robin’s heart. Judging from the sound of her, she hadn’t finished yet either.
Feeling a jumble of emotions she didn’t understand, Jasmine decided to go home. A strange anxiety had seeped into her, leaving her numb inside. Jasmine craved solace, yet also felt the need to be alone. So many questions whizzed round her head. Despite Jack telling Ellie Robin didn’t want her back, theyhadbeen kissing. She’d seen it with her own eyes. Did they still have unfinished business?
Walking back along the coastal path, for once the spectacular views didn’t lift her mood. All manner of thoughts and sensations passed through her as she plodded on, taking one step after the other until at last she reached her cottage, her haven. Once inside, she slammed the door shut on the whole evening.
Dear Bunty,
Where do I start? Firstly, by thanking you for contacting me. Not sure how you managed it, but I’m so pleased you did.
Life without you was tough, I’ll not lie, but I did manage to find happiness eventually. I met and married Valerie, but sadly lost her to breast cancer twelve years ago. Thankfully she left me a stepdaughter, Emma, my pride and joy. It’s Emma who’s always telling me to get out more. Easier said than done for an old sailor boy like me, but now, thanks to you, I find myself in a fortunate position. I’d love to meet up. The photograph you sent kick-started many fond memories we shared and it would be great to catch up and reminisce.
So, where and when Bunty? As ever, I’ll be guided by you.
Very best,
Perry
PS You made an excellent fortune teller BTW.
Bunty sat down with a huge beam on her face. Perry had replied! And, more importantly, he wanted to see her. The postscript at the bottom of the letter had made her giggle. He must have had access to the parish website and seen the snaps taken from the Tea by the Sea event. He was evidently ‘with it’ using the internet, and what did the abbreviation BTW mean? She’d have to ask Robin, or Jasmine. Since her stay, she and Jasmine had exchanged numbers and had often chatted on the phone. The two women were forming quite a bond. In fact, thought Bunty, she’d ring Jasmine now and let her know about Perry’s letter. Before doing so, she poured herself a generous gin and tonic, as a celebratory drink. It wasn’t every day you reconnected with a long-lost love.
Taking a pleasurable sip, Bunty closed her eyes in appreciation of the zesty fizz, then punched in Jasmine’s mobile number.
Jasmine was in her studio working when her phone bleeped into life. Quickly seeing who the caller was, she smiled at it being Bunty, despite wishing it had been someone else – Robin, mainly.
‘Darling, I have news!’ exclaimed Bunty.
‘Oh yes?’ Jasmine said with eagerness, hoping it was news on the Perry front.
‘He’s replied,’ she proclaimed with glee.
‘Bunty!’ gasped Jasmine in delight. ‘What did he write?’
‘That he wants us to meet.’
‘That’s fabulous!’ Jasmine gushed, truly happy for her. ‘When are you going to meet?’
‘He’s left it up to me,’ Bunty said, before adding, ‘he’s seen the photographs of me dressed up as gypsy Rosy-Lee.’
Jasmine laughed, finding it funny he’d looked her up before replying.
‘Hmm, what does “BTW” mean?’ asked Bunty.
‘Sorry?’
