by Liz Lovelock
“Chloe, is it?”
I search for the small voice calling my name. An elderly lady who looks about seventy, stands at the front gate. Where did she come from? Has she been there since I arrived?
“Oh hello! Yes, that’s me.”
“Oh, aren’t you a beautiful young lady? I’m Sherri.”
A flush spreads across my cheeks. “Oh … thank you. Nice to meet you.”
“Come this way, dear.” She turns towards the cottage.
I follow, taking in the breathtaking sight of the sunlit ocean located almost at the back door. It’s incredible. Trent wasn’t lying. This place is magical. Even the breeze sweeps away every doubt, hurt, and unease I’m feeling.
“How long are you planning to stay?” Sherri asks while unlocking the front door. There are two layback deck chairs nearby with a table in the middle looking out onto the small mountain behind.
“Not sure yet. Maybe a couple of weeks if the place is good for me,” I reply, a slight grin on my face.
The lock clicks, and she swings the door open wide. “This is the first house my late husband and I owned when we moved to this town many, many years ago. He built it himself.” She holds her tiny hand on the wall of the cottage and closes her eyes for a moment, as if remembering all their memories.
“That is so beautiful,” I breathe. Finding true love is everybody’s dream come true … well, for me it is. Only not right now. I’m on a man ban.
“When we had little kids, we had no choice but to move into a bigger house, but this will always be my home because it holds so many wonderful mementoes. We couldn’t part with it because it was the beginning of our journey together.”
Oh my, that is the sweetest story I’ve ever heard. Perhaps true love does exist for some people.
“Wow!” I breathe.
Finally, I step into the cottage and my eyes fall upon the simple, yet beautiful room. The cottage is open-plan living. The lounge, kitchen, and dining room are all one area, and off to one side are two doors, which most likely lead to the bathroom and bedroom.
“We upgraded the kitchen not so long ago and put some new furniture in.” She watches me in a way I’m wondering if she’s waiting to gauge my reactions. I sure hope not, because I’d say my eyes are probably trying to pop out of their sockets. “Well, what do you think?” she asks
I look at her as she slowly turns around the room, smiling. She’s short with well-kept grey curly hair and clear blue twinkling eyes. Such a sweet spirit. A wonderful welcome.
“I think it’s gorgeous, I would love to rent it. Thank you so much.” My hands are gripped in front of my chest. Excitement creeps within my fingertips, urging me to grab my suitcase and make this place my new home. At least for now.
Sherri gives an excited squeal. “No, thank you, sweet girl. This place has been empty for a while now. It needs some life and a little more love.” My skin tingles with delight, “Now payments. The first two weeks are free—”
I open my mouth to cut her off.
She raises her hand stopping me. She’s quick. I’ll give her that. “Now, dear, it’s free because you’ll need to make a promise to come visit me regularly.”
My eyebrows come together. Huh? What is she on about? “I’m sorry, what do you mean?”
“I’m an old lady and don’t get many visitors in my big house. My family are now too busy for me. I’d just like a visit. Well, my grandson lives with me, but he’s a busy man.” She shrugs.
I instantly feel sad for her. “I’d love to come visit you. I know no one, but I’d love to get to know you.” Even though things suck in my little bubble, I’m always happy to make someone else feel special. Free rent or not, I still would’ve gladly agreed if she asked.
“Thank you, dear. Now if you could sign this private agreement I’ve had drawn up. I won’t put dates as you’re unsure about how long your stay is.” She hands me a single sheet of paper, stating that I agree to pay my rent on time and to take care of the cottage.
After I’ve signed it, she holds out her hand with the keys. “Here you go—always make sure you lock up.” She waves her finger at me, dropping the keys in my open palm. Once they’re in my possession, her soft hands take my arms and pull me down and in for a hug.
Is this lady crazy? I don’t believe she’s crazy, but super sweet. We’re going to get along great.
“You are a special girl … Don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. I see the storm within your eyes and sense the hurt you’re carrying in your soul. Whatever has happened, don’t be afraid to open yourself up to new possibilities.”
Is she psychic?
“Umm …” I’m rendered speechless.
“Don’t worry, dear … We’ll talk more when you come to dinner tomorrow night.” She taps my hand which she still holds, beaming at me. Honestly, she’s the sweetest lady ever.
“Thanks again. I look forward to it.” And I really do.
After spending the remainder of the afternoon unpacking, I settle on the back porch with a glass of wine. Surprisingly enough, the place had been stocked with a small amount of food and drinks. Sherri is one of a kind; I look forward to getting to know her more.
Watching the waves crash and the glow from the sun slowly going down, relaxes me. This is something I could get used to.
I settle in for the night with a good book and look forward to tomorrow and the start of something fresh and new.
A positive me.
The sound of fighting seagulls wakes me. I lie there with my eyes closed, listening to the water lap at the shore. It’s energising. I roll over; the rising sun shines through the sheer white curtains in my bedroom. So much has happened in the span of two days—it’s crazy.
I’m surprised I slept so well last night, my mind wasn’t running crazy. My thoughts have mostly been on Mum and her lies, and the betrayal of Crystal and Ryan. Well, in the last twenty-four hours, anyway. Crystal’s been messaging me nonstop, apologising. Perhaps one day I can find a way to forgive her. Then, there’s Mum. I’m not sure about letting go of such a massive lie, yet. It’s all very raw.
I drag myself from my comfortable bed; I have a lot of things I need to do today.
After a quick breakfast, I’m back on the road. I have a tyre to be fixed and a cheque to cash, and I need to buy more food and wine to stock those cupboards. Good thing this is a small town. At least it won’t be hard to find the places I need.
I pull up in what seems to be the middle of town. It’s the busiest part of the town I’ve seen. There are shops and little eateries scattered around. Plenty of buzz. Nothing like the big city.
My phone rings again for the fourth time in the last hour. Mum and Crystal haven’t let up. Glancing down at my screen, Janie’s name flashes back at me. Thank goodness! A familiar friendly voice.
“Hey, lady,” I answer cheerfully.
“Hey. Don’t you sound chipper today?”
“How could I not? This place is amazing, and a breath of fresh air.”
“Sounds divine.” She sighs.
“How’s work going?”
She groans before she answers. “Yeah, the usual. You know how it is.”
“How’s the skank?”
A chuckle tells me she knows whom I’m referring to. “She’s as dumb as a box of rocks.”
“No surprise there.” I laugh.
Stepping out of the car, I scan down the street looking for the tyre shop sign.
“What’s on your agenda today?”
“Well, I have to get my tyre fixed and some food to survive. Did I tell you? I’ve decided I’m becoming a hermit. This cottage is my new cave and I’m never leaving. Well, except for now to get more supplies.” I laugh.
“Oh yeah? Have you run into Mr Mysterious again? Didn’t he say he’d see you around there?” she queries. I rang Janie last night to let her know I’d arrived safely and told her about my Captain America and his beautiful dimples. She couldn’t help cheering me on and hoped I’d get to me
et him again.
“Nah, I’m not expecting to. He said he visited here, not that it’s where he lives. Although it would be amazing to see him again.” Why do I keep having these thoughts when I’ve sworn off men? Captain America epitomises male beauty. Who wouldn’t want to see such a pretty face again?
“You never know what’s around the corner.”
Don’t I know that? “Well, I’d better go and get these things done because I have a whole lot of nothing to achieve.”
We erupt in laughter.
“Okay. Don’t have too much fun without me; I might need to quit my job and come stay with you.”
Now there’s an idea. “Come down for a weekend when you can.”
“Oh, I plan to.”
We say our goodbyes, and I’m back to seeking out the places I need to go.
Google is my best friend right now. It shows me where everything is for all the jobs I need to get done today. Looking up from my phone, I see the mechanic’s is directly across from where I parked. Well, that’s lucky. Janie’s phone call must have distracted me and I completely missed it.
Walking across the road to the mechanic/tyre repairer, it looks closed. I move towards the front door. A deep voice calls from the workshop, causing me to jump in fright. My hand flies to my chest settling against the erratic beating …
“You can come this way, love.”
How the hell could he tell I was here? Turning into the shed, I spy a body bent over the engine of an old Ford wagon.
“Hey, I just need to get my tyre repaired. Am I at the right place?” I question, a little unsure.
The mechanic stands up, and I’m floored.
“I told you I’d see ya again.” Captain America grins as he delivers a wink. Oh, that dimple … I can’t breathe … I’m besotted whenever I’m in his company.
“Oh, um … hey. It’s you.” I stumble over my words. Why didn’t I fall over my words last time, yet now I’m shy? I wasn’t planning on seeing him again so soon, it’s thrown me.
“Yep, it’s me.”
Oh, my gosh! He looks even better all greased up in dirty jeans and a black singlet. He throws a grease rag over his shoulder after he wipes his hands.
“You knew I’d be coming here?” I enquire, pulling my bag tighter to my shoulder, waiting for his reply. He cocks one of his eyebrows and gives me a half-smile.
Breathe, Chloe. Breathe.
Walking over to me, he extends his hand. “Hey, I’m Seth, but my friends call me Captain America … no, wait, that’s just you.” He chuckles. A ghost of a smile touches my lips. His hand slides smoothly into mine and gives a firm shake.
“I’m Chloe.” I blush.
“Well, Chloe, a new tyre you said?”
“Um … yeah.” My words come out breathlessly. What’s wrong with me? My words evade me once again. At the rate I’m going I’ll be flat out stringing a full sentence together. I must look like a fool to him.
Brushing himself against my arm, he steps past me. Goosebumps erupt on my skin from his touch. “Let’s get the old one out.”
I’m left staring at the back of him while he walks away. At least I get a nice view. Slowly, I shake my head to remove the trance I find myself in. Pull yourself together, Chloe.
Quickly, I follow him back to the car, still parked across the road. By the time I get there, he’s opened the boot and begun helping himself to my tyre. He can help himself to so much more than that.
Seth opens the boot of my car and pulls out the cover over my spare tyre. “Are you right there, helping yourself?” I question, my hands placed on my hips, with a playful smile on my lips.
He steps back, his eyes tracing up and down my body. My stomach twists. “Just doing my job for my damsel in distress.”
So, I guess this is going to be our thing. I’m okay with this. “Thanks. I appreciate it.”
He turns back to the job at hand. “So you’re visiting, aren’t you?”
“Yeah. I’m surprised to see you. Was hoping you might have forgotten all about little ol’ tantrum throwing me.” I laugh.
“How could I forget a girl screaming at her car on the side of the road?” Now it’s his turn to joke at my expense. I shake my head, rolling my eyes at the memory. How embarrassing.
Oh gee. Heat rushes to my face. Glancing down, I see my chest pinking up as well. How embarrassing. “Um … thanks. I think.”
He has guts, I’ll give him that. I like it.
“Where are you staying?” He sits on the old tyre, crossing his arms over his chest, showing a genuine interest in me.
“I got a place right on the beach, surprisingly. A beautiful cottage.” The thought of it makes my inner self glow. I adore that place.
“Oh … Yes, I know the house you’re referring to,” he says.
“You do?” I asked.
He nods. “Yep. Everyone knows beautiful Sherri and her cottage on the beach. Only a stone’s throw from Thomas Point Lookout.”
“Thomas Point what? Is that the hill beside it?” He nods again. “Oh, okay. I might need to make my way up there.”
He gets a twinkle in his eyes while he speaks. “It’s a magical hill. Did Sherri tell you about it?” he questions, watching me.
“No,”
“Yep, it’s magical. It will give you the guidance you seek.” My eyebrows rise in shock at the corny statement. He must see the scepticism on my face because he says, “Trust me.” His eyes bore into mine. Magical, he says? Sounds interesting.
Breaking our trance, he stands. “I’ll have to get a new one in for you as we don’t have any for your car in stock. Because we’re such a small town, we only order high performance wheels such as yours when they’re needed. I know it’ll be here in the next day or two. Just don’t blow another one in the meantime.” His lips rise, and that cute dimple appears again. My legs become like jelly. How does he have this effect on me? I hardly know him.
“I’ll do my best … Bad luck seems to follow me lately.”
“You’re in charge of your own destiny. We all have bad luck. It’s a part of life.”
Such wise words—if only I felt in charge. Right now, I’m far from it. I swear there’s something evil out to destroy any chance of happiness I might have.
Still I can’t tell him that. The last thing he needs is my problems. I paste on a cheeky smile, determined to lighten the mood. “Yes, oh great and wise Captain America.”
He steps towards me, picking my hand up and placing a light kiss on the back of it. His soft lips linger for a brief moment. “My lady.” My tummy swirls with excitement. Seth releases his tender hold of my hand, slamming me with another dimple charged smile. He turns, returning to his workshop.
When I finally pull myself from my dreamy state, I remember he didn’t get my contact details. “Hey, don’t you need my number to let me know when the tyre comes in?” I call. Striding back towards me he pulls a pen from his back pocket. “If you wanted me to call you, all you had to do was ask, not make up an excuse,” he responds smoothly. I’m left speechless, and when I go to say something, anything, he laughs, “What’s your number, beautiful?”
After I relay it to him, I receive another sexy grin before he turns back and leaves.
My encounter with Seth has left me buzzing, a happy kind of buzz. A genuine grin has been plastered on my face since seeing him. Seriously, what were my chances of meeting my Captain America again so soon?
As I soak up the sun on the back porch, the UV rays heat my skin. This place is heavenly; it helps me forget my woes. Tonight, my plan is to go see Sherri. A nice night out will be good for my sanity, plus she had already invited me around.
My phone rings again, and when I see Dad’s name flashing on the screen, I sigh. I can no longer avoid talking to him. I haven’t wanted to talk about Mum and I don’t want to hear the sadness in his voice. It will tear me apart because I know he’s hurting as well.
“Hey Dad,” I answer, with no emotion in my voice.
&nb
sp; “Oh, finally,” he breathes. I hear the relief in his tone. “Hello, sweetheart, how are you going?”
“Surprisingly, I’m going good. Just taking some time out.” And I am. I’m starting to feel somewhat happy again. I may put on a ‘I don’t care attitude,’ but I’m not dwelling on the pain that’s left an empty void within me. At least I’m trying.
“Yeah, you told me. Where are you?”
“Oh, a little beach town a couple hours’ north.”
“You don’t want to tell me?” he questions, and truthfully, I don’t want to.
“No, I don’t.” I sound like a bitch of a daughter. I’m allowed to be this time.
Dad sighs into the phone. “Sweetheart, she wants to talk to you.”
Here we go again. My eyes roll the instant I hear the mention of her. “I don’t want to talk to her, Dad. I don’t want to hear excuses, and why the heck are you sticking up for her? She betrayed you.”
I’m met with silence. I hate myself for lashing out at the one person who hasn’t lied to me. Perhaps my confrontations went too far. Yes, she did betray him, but he forgave her. “Sorry Dad.”
“Alright Chloe, I’ll leave you to it. Please keep in touch.” His response is cold.
The ache in my chest becomes more pained, because of my thoughtless words. “Thanks Dad. Bye.”
“Love you, Chloe.”
“Love you, too.”
Our call disconnects, and I’m back in my dark, depressed state of mind. Now I’m left struggling with the guilt.
“Great job, Chloe,” I say aloud, frustrated with myself, no longer enjoying the sunshine.
“What’s Chloe done now?”
“Holy damn!” I shout at the unannounced male standing at the corner of the porch. I practically tumble out of my chair. “What the hell are you doing here?”
Amused at my reaction, Seth replies, “I’ve come to tell you I’ll have your replacement tyre here the day after tomorrow.”
Twice in one day. I’m not sure how much more I can handle. His eyes fall on my tanning body. I quickly scramble for my sarong to cover up. Seth has a hungry glint in his eyes, as though he could jump me at any moment.