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“Have you had fun?” Molly asked, turning to her daughter and interrupting the unusual moment.

“Surprisingly, yes. I might actually wear these.” Hazel held the earrings up to her ears to view them in the mirror Molly had passed her.

“You should sell those. So many people would buy a style like that. You could do a heap with different beads in different colours,” Darleen suggested.

“Maybe, I’ve only made one pair! It could have been a fluke.”

“Not unless you take after me. I am an artist after all,” Molly chuckled.

When the class ended, the four women said their goodbyes. Josie and Hazel exchanged details and promised to catch up.

On the drive home, Molly commended her daughter. “Seriously, darling, your earrings were nicer than so many other creations today, and it was only your first lesson! I really think you have some talent. You should make some more, and we could sell them at the markets. I have all the tools and equipment at home.”

“Hmm, maybe.” Hazel gazed out the window. “I guess it couldn’t hurt. It will give me something to do while you make me have time off. Plus, I could maybe make a little side money.”

“Excellent. Feel free to use my studio whenever you need. I have heaps of beads, pearls, gems… there’s so much you could do!”

Hazel let Molly trail off in excitement. Hazel, lost in her thoughts, didn’t speak again until Molly commented, “You seemed to make a new friend today. Josie, was that her name?”

Hazel nodded. “She seems really nice, but there’s just something off about her. Like she’s constantly on edge. Yet she came to a jewellery class with a bunch of people she doesn’t know?” Hazel shrugged. “I get the feeling she needs a friend.”

“Yes, I got that sense too. Just be gentle with her, and she will probably open up to you over time.” Molly murmured as she pulled into the driveway of the farmhouse, parking next to Sam’s truck.

Hazel got out of the four-wheel drive and climbed up to the verandah. She opened the door, and Bailey zoomed out, running towards Molly with such ferocity that both woman and dog nearly tumbled onto the grass. Molly steadied herself and gave a laugh as Bailey enthusiastically tried to lick her face.

Hazel snuck inside and bounded up the steps. She entered the bathroom and saw Sam, bent under the newly installed counter. He heard her footsteps and stuck his head out from behind the cabinetry. Grinning as he saw her, he stood up.

“Hi,” Hazel said, smiling shyly.

“Hi,” Sam replied. He took a step towards her and bent down to meet her lips. “How was the jewellery class?”

“Good,” Hazel replied. She took the earrings out of her pocket. “I made these.”

“They’re nice. I like the shape.”

“Thanks. Mum wants me to make more and sell them at the markets. I’m not sure yet. I probably will. After all, I have lots of spare time on my hands.”

Sam laid his arm around her and drew her in for a quick hug. “I think it’s a good idea.”

Hazel leaned into him. It felt nice to be in his arms. She felt her phone buzz in her pocket.

Josie: Would you like to catch up tomorrow night? Josie

Hazel: Sure! Out or in? Can do at mine x

Josie: Yours at 7 pm?

Hazel: 17 Fig Tree Lane. Mind if I invite a friend?

Josie: Okay.

Sam watched the rapid-fire text exchange as Hazel tapped madly on her phone.

“New friend?” he asked, raising his eyebrows.

“Her name’s Josie. She was at the jewellery class today. She wants to catch up tomorrow night.” Hazel looked up and saw Sam smiling at her. “What?” she asked, smiling back at him.

“Would you want to come over to mine the following night? I can cook.”