by Rimmy London
His eyes were solemn and vivid while he spoke, telling Abby more than the words he said. She could see the humility there, the regret that still lived inside him. It would likely be a long time before their lives could heal, but from where they stood, Abby couldn't wait to get started. A life with an actual father—one who had been there for years although she didn't know it. One who made her dreams possible, even if he did it under cloak and cover.
Her heart burned with happiness. "I'd like that very much. Thank you."
Cassandra's sharp eyes were glancing between them, likely noticing the inconsistencies compared to a normal father, daughter relationship. But she stayed silent and kept her amiable smile. Ever the warm, affectionate soul. Abby was sure she would do amazing things for the inn. Sure, it would be a while before they even knew what the future would hold, but taking this first step of hiring Cassandra was a start.
The air around them was becoming tinged with warmth, the morning sun lifting beyond the eaves so that it became a cheerful glow inside. Everything about their surroundings brought comfort and change, down to the turning of the tides. Coming and going, never saying goodbye for too long. Abby could relate to a partnership like that, one that never separated completely. It was the future for them. Because even if they left Poppyridge, they would never truly leave. Returning to the crumbled-shell beach and the ever-shadowed redwoods was something she could never do without. It was a piece of her soul, the essence of her wild spirit. And in its solace, she had received the strength to move on.
The End.
* LOVED IT??!! Please leave a review and be looking for the next book in the Seaside Inn Mystery Series! Second Chance at Poppyridge Cove
Here’s your sneak peek…
Abby's father Briggs has a spotted past. Although he's tried to mend the damage he's done, there are demons from his previous life. Determined to move on and become the father he always wanted to be, he puts his heart and soul into helping at Poppyridge Inn. Perhaps if he can be of use, Abby will want him to stay. Because even if she said she forgave him, was it really possible?
Cassandra has put enormous effort into building herself up after her divorce. Determined to be a light and source of solace to those around her, she has spent the last three years devoting herself to this task. When she received the job at Poppyridge, it was a dream come true. The travelers adore her, and she couldn't have found a better opportunity. But when she's with Briggs, she can tell there is a lot he needs to mend with his family. She's torn between digging deeper and respecting his privacy.
As Cassandra and Briggs make this transition, will they be able to leave their pasts behind and create the futures they long for? Or will long-ago choices get in the way?
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to my incredible editor Chris Hall from @theeditinghall for always connecting the dots and shining the silver of my stories. You’re brilliant!
Thank you to my family, who goes without a clean floor and home-cooked meal many days. Everything I do is for you.
And thank you to my readers! For your happiness and enthusiasm for great storytelling.
Cheers,
Rim