23
ROSIE
Dropping off Charlie at Stella’s goes smoothly. For not using a babysitter often, Charlie has taken to being cared for by Stella and Beck easily. Despite it being early, Stella and Max are wide awake.
“I should only be a few hours,” I assure Stella when I pull her into a hug.
“Don’t worry about it. Take your time. You can’t rush things like this.”
“I know. Thank you.” I wave and hurry back to Dottie’s little car.
Of course I couldn’t spread Dottie’s ashes in the ocean by her cottage. She specifically requested I spread them in the waters on the island. It’s a process to get there. I have to take the ferry.
At lease it isn’t crowded at this time of the day. Mostly fishermen and people who work on the island but choose to live in Golden Harbor. After I park my car and ensure it’s secure, I climb out and lock it, then head to the upper deck in search of coffee.
After I order and pay—and pray it’s good—I take my coffee and stroll to the end of the ferry to look out at the water. The sun is already rising and golden hues paint the sky. It’s beautiful. The spray can’t be felt this high off the waters, but I close my eyes and allow the light and cool morning breeze hit my face. After an inhale and exhale, I open my eyes again and take a sip of the coffee.
It’s hot and nearly burns my tongue, but it’s good. No Starbucks like I’ve gotten used to living in Seattle and West reloading my app constantly. But it’s not bad.
I glance around and spot a few fishermen My curiosity is getting the best of me, wondering if Beck is on this ferry or if he left even earlier. Or maybe a part of me does wish he were here with me to make this easier. He’s always been good about centering me. Just like I’ve always been good about calming him.
I slide my phone from my pocket and I’m tempted to text him. But when it lights up, the ‘SOS Only’ signal appears on my screen.Great. No service on the ferry. It’s probably best this way. I shove my phone back into my pocket and gaze out at the island in the distance. Even if he’s almost all I can think about.
Being in Golden Harbor, in Beck’s orbit again…He and Charlie spending time together—it’s thrown me into more of a spin than I expected. While I knew some lingering feelings might resurface, I hadn’t expected them to be this strong. Or that Beck would still be harboring feelings as well.
I groan aloud and take a slow sip of my coffee, being extra careful this time. The sweetness of the honey hits my tastebuds this time and the heavenly brew touches my soul in a way that’s unexplainable to a person who doesn’t drink coffee. How do people not drink coffee?
I don’t want to rush today. Like Stella said, this is important. Dottie specifically asked me to do this. I need to take the time that’s needed to do it right. To remember and honor her. Imay not be able to fulfill her request of moving back to Golden Harbor and living in her house, but I will make her final wishes happen.
After the ferry reaches the port and I’m back in the car, I follow in the line, inching my way off and onto the two-lane road that will take me into the main part of the island. I recognize most of the places I pass. A grocery store, a taco stand, a bar. Except the bar has a new sign. A fresh coat of pain. A new name too:The Thirsty Turtle.
It’s Beck’s dad’s bar. I pull into the lot without thinking and park the car haphazardly. My heart rate picks up speed and like a dummy, I contemplate knocking on the door. They’re closed now, but Beck said his dad lives in the upstairs apartment.
There’s a truck parked out front, but my brain finally plays catch up with my heart and I remember. They’re fishing. Probably at the marina, which means I’ll be spreading Dottie’s ashes on the opposite side of the island.
My phone buzzes as it connects to service and when I check it, my heart does a little jump in my chest.
Beck
I know I’m not your first choice but let me know if you need anything
But I don’t trust myself to respond. I only heart his message and swipe to my other texts.
Hannah
I miss you already!
It’s been pouring since yesterday
Better get the spare room ready for me. I need some sun in my life!
Smiling, I tap out a reply, telling her she’s welcome anytime.
Stella
Charlie is currently teaching Max his colors with crayons. Mind if I keep her for a few days?
Guessing you’re still on the ferry and don’t have service
