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She had a full hour before needing to be back at the bus for the next leg of their journey. Instead of wasting time scrolling social media, she allowed the warmth of the room and the comfort of the bed to pull her into a deep slumber.

She didn’t know how much time had passed before a buzzing occurred in her hands, and she was jerked out of her dreams by her phone going off.

She blinked heavily, trying to wake herself up as she stared down at the screen to see Daphne’s name written across it.

Daphne

Hey, hon. Hope you’re doing better than I am. Traveling was a nightmare. Two layovers and massive delays both times. I’m exhausted. BUT I’m finally home.

Maisie cringed. She’d been having the time of her life today and Daphne had been majorly suffering.

Her parents’ advice echoed in her mind. “Her happiness isn’t your responsibility…Don’t be afraid to live your own life. After all, she is.”

They were right. This was going to take some practice, but Maisie was determined to stay okay, even if Daphne wasn’t.

With a self-encouraging nod, she typed out a response.

Maisie

Gah, I’m so sorry! That sounds completely miserable. I’m so glad you’re home, though. Please tell me you get to sleep now??

Daphne

I wish. I’m in an Uber heading to meet with Briggs before Mr. Johnson joins us. I just wanted to touch bases with you really quickly. How are you doing? What was on the agenda for today?

Maisie

Rathlin Island. It was great! Missed you all day, of course.

She looked over the text filled with half-realities, then sent it anyway. She couldn’t very well send Daphne the truth now, could she?

Yeah, Rathlin Island was incredible. I didn’t miss you. In fact, I was glad you weren’t there because I got to hang out with the hot tour guide who flirted with me and checked me out for, like, two hours. Have fun working! Bye!

That would go over really well.

Daphne

Did you get to go on that bike ride??

Maisie

Yep!

Daphne

Aw, I’m so glad! I’m still so bummed I can’t be there with you. I just have to keep reminding myself that all this sacrifice is going to be worth it. As soon as this restaurant opens, it’ll be smooth sailing.

Maisie read the text over. As soon as the restaurant opened, the menu would be complete, and her job would be done. What did Daphne want her to do after that? Keep being her little companion?

Or would Maisie be free to set her course for another dream? One that was solely hers?

Daphne

How was the food today?

Maisie

Pretty lackluster. I have higher hopes for dinner tonight. Supposedly, Willie’s Cellars is fantastic.