“I’m so sorry.” Her heart broke for the little boy who lost his mom and whose father was away on business all the time.
He shrugged. “It’s just how my life was. But I recently came across some old items of my mother’s. That’s how I found out she came from this area. That got me interested in this particular area. Anyway, I do find researching the history fascinating.”
She nodded. “Even just learning about Magnolia Key’s past today was eye-opening. I’ve been coming here my whole life but never knew about Prince Lawrence or Bardonzia.”
“That’s the beauty of history,” Brent said. “There’s always something new to uncover, even in places you think you know well.”
They walked in companionable silence for a moment, the gentle island breeze rustling through the palm trees lining the street.
“What about you?” Brent asked. “Do you come to Magnolia Key every summer?”
She hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. “I do come visit every summer, but not for the whole summer like this year. I needed to get out of the city. Get… away. Needed a break after this past school year. Thought I’d come and help Gran out at the B&B for a while.”
He nodded, seeming to sense there was more to the story. “Teaching can be tough,” he said gently. “I did a stint as a professor for a few years before focusing on research. It’s rewarding, but it can really take it out of you.”
His understanding tone made her feel unexpectedly emotional. She took a deep breath, surprised to find herself wanting to open up to him.
“It’s just… I used to love it so much,” she admitted. “But lately, it feels like I’ve lost that spark, you know? I’m not sure if I can get it back.”
He listened attentively as they walked, his expression thoughtful. “Maybe spending time here on Magnolia Key is exactly what you need.”
She smiled, feeling a glimmer of hope at his words. “Maybe you’re right. I have to admit, today’s little historical adventure was the most engaged I’ve felt in a long time.”
They reached the B&B, pausing at the bottom of the porch steps. Brent turned to face her, his expression warm.
“Well, if you’re interested, I’d love to have your help with more research while I’m here,” he offered. “Your local knowledge could be invaluable, and who knows what other mysteries we might uncover?”
She felt a flutter of excitement at the prospect. “I’d like that,” she said, surprised by how much she meant it.
As they climbed the porch steps together, she realized with a start that she was smiling. A real, genuine smile. And it felt good.
Chapter5
The next morning, Felicity was helping Gran with the breakfast dishes when Brent entered the kitchen. “Good morning,” he greeted them.
“There’s some coffee if you’d like some,” Gran said, waving a dishcloth at him.
“Thank you, I appreciate it.” Brent poured himself a cup. “I got so engrossed in my research that I lost track of time and missed breakfast.”
Felicity dried her hands on a towel and turned to face him. “I was planning to head into town for lunch at Coastal Coffee. Would you like to join me?”
His eyes lit up. “That sounds great. I’d love to.”
She finished helping Gran while Brent lounged in the kitchen with his coffee. After they were done, they said goodbye to Gran and set off, walking side by side along the quiet island streets. The sun was warm on her face, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of salt and tropical flowers.
As they entered Coastal Coffee, a cheerful bell above the door announced their arrival. It had always charmed her that so many of the businesses here on the island had bells over their doors.
Beverly, the owner, looked up from behind the counter and grinned. “Felicity! So good to see you, honey.” She came around to give her a big hug.
“It’s great to see you too. I’ve been meaning to get by here to catch up with you.” She returned the embrace, then gestured to Brent. “This is Brent Dunn. He’s staying at the B&B while he researches the history of southern Florida.”
Beverly shook Brent’s hand, her eyes twinkling. “Well, welcome to Magnolia Key, Brent. You’ve come to the right place for history. This island is full of stories.”
They settled at a table, and Beverly brought over menus. Felicity was glad to see it was mostly the same as ever. She liked that about Coastal Coffee, about most of the island. Things didn’t change much.
After they ordered, Felicity stopped Beverly as she walked past. “Can you join us for a bit?”
Beverly glanced around the cafe. “Sure, Maxine is here to help. I can take a few.” She took a seat. “So I haven’t seen Darlene in a while. She keeping busy with the guests?”
