The gentle hum of clippers filled the air at Ruff to Regal, mingling with the occasional bark and the soothing classical music playing softly in the background. Georgina stood at her grooming station, carefully trimming a knot in the fur on the tail of a fluffy Pomeranian named Buttercup, a job Marcus said would be easy for her to do. The dog's coat was a rich golden colour that reminded her of warm honey, and it shimmered under the bright salon lights.
As she worked, Georgina found her mind drifting to the upcoming sunset picnic event. The annual charity fundraiser had been weighing heavily on her thoughts lately, a mix of excitement and anxiety swirling in her chest. She wanted so badly to make her mother proud, to carry on the tradition that had meant so much to her.
‘Penny for your thoughts?’ Marcus's cheerful voice broke through her reverie, as he kept a watchful eye on her while she was training.
Georgina looked up, a small smile tugging at her lips. ‘Oh, just thinking about the picnic. There's still so much to do.’
Marcus nodded sympathetically. Christine has told me how your mum and Pippa’s mum Marie, always used to organise it. She always praises them both saying they used to make such a magnificent job of it every year. It sounds like your mum always put her heart and soul into it. What was your mum’s name?’
At the mention of her mother, Georgina felt a familiar pang in her chest. She paused in her grooming, her hand resting gently on Buttercup's back.
‘Sharron...You know,’ she said softly, ‘I keep having these vivid memories of her lately. Mostly of when we were at the annual sunset picnics.’
* Flashback *
Two-year-old Georgina sat on a checkered blanket, her legs crossed as she watched her mother move gracefully from group to group. The setting sun cast a warm glow over the beach, and the air was filled with laughter and the gentle lapping of waves.
Tom her father slipped his arms around her mother’s waist from behind and nuzzled his nose into the nape of her neck. Her mum squealed with delight. ‘Is there anything you want help with love?’ Georgina also called out. ‘Me help.’
Her mother turned to face her father, her eyes twinkling with warmth. ‘Of course, sweetheart. Why don't you come help me hand out these programs?’ Georgina watched as her father gathered a handful of programs, kiss her mother’s cheek, and go off to hand them out.
Her mother walked towards her smiling and bent down. ‘You girls stay right here. Christine, the lady who cuts your hair is right there.’ Her mother pointed to Christine. ‘She is going to keep a watchful eye on you. Daddy and mummy won’t be long.’ She bent down close to her daughters and whispered, ‘Remember, my darling babies, the most important part of this picnic event isn't the money we raise, it's bringing people together, and making them feel part of something special.’ She handed a program to each of them. ‘See how happy everyone is in these photos?’
Georgina nodded solemnly, clutching her program to her chest. ‘Happy...like us,’ Francis said, and Georgina smiled as her mother kissed them both on the tip of their noses.
* End Flashback *
‘Georgina?’ Marcus's voice brought her back to the present. ‘You okay?’
She blinked rapidly, realising her eyes had misted over. ‘Yes, sorry. Just...remembering.’
Marcus squeezed her shoulder gently. ‘Your mum would be so proud of you, you know, doing your bit for the community as well.’
Georgina smiled gratefully, about to respond when the bell above the door chimed. She looked up and her heart skipping a beat as she saw Matt walk in, his presence immediately filling the small salon.
‘Matt!’ she exclaimed, her face lighting up. ‘What brings you here?’
Matt grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. ‘Well, I heard there was a charity event in need of volunteers,’ he winked, ‘and I thought I'd offer my services.’
Georgina raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. ‘Oh really? And what services might those be, Mr Harris? Do you want to tread the streets of Seagull Bay with me again?’
Matt's grin widened as he reached behind his back, producing a small acoustic guitar. ‘I thought I might provide some musical entertainment.’
Georgina's eyes widened in surprise as she gasped. ‘You play guitar? How did I not know this? Why didn’t you tell me?’
Matt shrugged, a hint of shyness creeping into his expression. ‘It never came up. I'm not exactly a rockstar or anything you know, but I can strum a few chords.’
Marcus, who had been watching the exchange with interest, chimed in. ‘Well, don't keep us in suspense. Let's hear something.’
Matt hesitated for a moment, then nodded. He perched on the edge of a nearby chair and began to play, his fingers movingdeftly over the strings. A soft, melodic tune filled the salon, causing the dogs to perk up their ears.
As the last notes faded away, Georgina found herself holding her breath. ‘Matt, that was beautiful,’ she said softly.
Matt ducked his head, a faint blush colouring his cheeks. ‘Thanks. Like I said, I'm no expert, but I enjoy playing the odd tune or two.’
Marcus clapped his hands together enthusiastically. ‘That settles it. You absolutely must play at the picnic.’
Georgina nodded in agreement, her mind already racing with possibilities. ‘It would be perfect. We could set up a small stage near the refreshment area for the musicians.’
