‘I’m on it like a car bonnet! I love you so much, Jules. I mean that with all my heart, and if you ever need me…’
‘I know, Millie. And I love you too.’
When the call was over, Juliette walked over to the window and pulled back the curtains. The sky that had been vibrant blue most days up to now was grey and filled with heavy clouds, almost mirroring the way she felt. Her heart ached at the thought that her friend had been putting off her own future to ensure she was okay.
She thought back to the times Millie had visited when she was in the depths of her depression and unable or unwilling to leave the house. How she didn’t expect conversation or to go anywhere, instead she would simply sit beside her, silently. There was nothing she could do to make things betterphysically, but her emotional presence and support had meant the world: a simple hand on her arm, a hug, a smile of reassurance, a cup of tea, a shoulder to cry on. Millie had known just what to do when nothingcouldbe done. And for that, Juliette would always be grateful. But Millie deserved to have what she had experienced with Laurie. And now was her time. There was no way Juliette was going to stand in the way of her best friend’s happiness.
* * *
After work, Juliette tidied the children’s discovery area and eventually locked the museum door behind her. A text pinged through from Dexter to say he would be arriving the following day and a jitter of excitement sparked in her stomach. Thankful that the rain had abated, she made her way across to Caitlin’s shop to collect something nice for after tea and something to greet Dexter with too.
‘Hey, you. How’s it been today?’ Caitlin asked with a wide smile as she walked in.
Juliette couldn’t help but enthuse. ‘Incredibly busy. Hamish was in again today, bless him. I want to adopt him as my grandad. He’s so sweet. A few more of the locals came in today too. I thought, at first, they were coming to spy on me for Leanna, but they all seemed far too nice. Remember when Leanna said that people had been complaining about me? I’m thinking she made it up.’
Caitlin laughed. ‘And you doubted that because…?’
‘Okay, fair point. Can I have a lemon cake please?’ she asked, glancing at the empty space where it should have been. ‘Or have you sold out?’
Caitlin cringed. ‘All gone, I’m afraid. The campsite down the road is full and I think Archie has been telling everyone to come here.’
‘He runs the campsite too?’
‘He doesn’t just run it, he owns it.’
Juliette shook her head. ‘Wow, he is a busy man. Okay, what have you got then?’
‘I’ve a couple of tray bakes left. Just don’t tell Evin you took the last ones. He’s rather fond of the caramel and white chocolate ones, a fact I discovered seeing as Grace keeps stealing them for him.’ She rolled her eyes.
‘Aww, it’s so sweet how they’ve become such good friends.’
Caitlin smiled. ‘Hmm, not great for my profit margins.’
‘No, I can imagine. How does Evin seem? I haven’t seen him for a couple of days.’
‘Ah, yes, he’s been at his mum’s. He’s as bright as a button though. Still constantly talks about you. I think you have your own fan club there.’
Juliette grinned. ‘Oh, he’s just such a sweet boy. I’m glad he’s doing well.’
‘Aye. Grace might have something to with it too. So, is a tray bake okay?’
‘Sounds good to me. Pop a couple of melting moments in too,’ Juliette said as she eyed the mouth-watering confections.
‘Are we on for a drink at the pub later or are you wanting a night at home?’ Caitlin asked as she placed the cakes in paper bags.
‘Oh, I’m definitely up for some company, but do you fancy coming to me and I’ll stick a pizza in the oven? I don’t feel like going to the pub tonight. My brother is arriving for a visit tomorrow and also… you know… Leanna…’
‘That’s fine by me, but don’t go letting her stop you from enjoying yourself. If you ask me, the hard-nosed bint needs to stop being so possessive over what she has absolutely no claim to.’
Juliette giggled at Caitlin’s harsh choice of words. ‘I know, I know. But come to me anyway. Oh, and bring wine.’
Caitlin shook her head. ‘As if I’d even consider coming without!’
* * *
As Juliette walked towards Lifeboat Cottage, she spotted Reid leaving Morag’s shop. He was in his paint-spattered clothing, which she took as a positive sign.
He greeted her with a wide smile. ‘Hi, Jules. How are you?’
