‘Oh no,’ groaned Beth. ‘I hope it passes quickly. Otherwise it will be a washout for all those poor stallholders.’
As soon as they walked in, Margaret identified Edie and made a beeline for her. Edie was sat at a table in the corner, nursing a cappuccino, her dog curled up on the floor next to her. Beth watched as she looked up at Margaret in surprise — then she beamed when she evidently recognised her. She jumped up and the women hugged, with Margaret excitedly telling her she’d finally managed to buy some of her coveted mugs. Beth lingered a few metres away while she wondered whether to go and order, but just then Margaret turned round and beckoned her over.
‘This isthefamous Edie,’ she said.
Beth smiled. ‘Hi Edie. I’ve heard alotabout you, and the excitement of buying your mugs has been the most animated I’ve seen Margaret all weekend.’
Edie chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
‘I’m Beth.’ She reached out her hand.
‘Sorry love, me and my lack of manners. Beth is a friend and she moved here not long ago. I’m just over visiting for the weekend with her dad.’
Edie looked beyond them. Beth wondered if she was expecting him to appear.
‘He’s at home having a nap and watching the football.’ Margaret rolled her eyes. ‘We’re out doing some Christmas shopping.’
‘Well it’s lovely to see you again Margaret, and to meet you, Beth. How are you settling in?’
‘I’m loving it thanks. I’m working with the paper in Brodick.’
‘Ah, I see.’ She nodded. ‘That makes sense. I saw a new by-line in the paper and wondered who it was. It’s really nice to put a face to the name. I do hope you enjoy working and living here.’
‘Thank you. That’s really kind.’ Beth glanced at Margaret. ‘Listen, I’m just going to order some coffee. Can I get you another, Edie?’
She shook her head. ‘Thank you, that’s really kind, but no. I was just having a quick caffeine fix on my way home. It’s always much nicer when someone else makes it for you, and Cano makes such brilliant coffee. Hopefully that rain will go off soon so I can make a dash for it.’
‘No problem,’ said Beth. ‘Hopefully I’ll see you again, Edie. Really nice to meet you.’
‘Do say hello if you pass me again,’ said Edie.
‘I will.’
While Margaret and Edie said their goodbyes, Beth walked over to the counter to look at the cake selection.
Moments later she was joined by Margaret, whose eyes widened. ‘Will you look at those cakes. I’d like to stick my fork in them all.’
Beth nodded. ‘They do all look delicious. But I think we might get chucked out if you start doing that.’ She laughed. ‘How about we get two different ones and share?’
‘Aye love, that sounds like a very good idea.’
‘You go and take a seat and I’ll order it. Anything you fancy in particular?’
‘No, I will eat anything. Thanks love. I could do with a wee rest myself now. All this shopping isexhausting.’
Beth couldn’t help but chuckle at Margaret. She was very easy company — Beth was glad she’d come over to visit. As she stood there trying to decide which cakes to choose, she became aware of someone standing next to her.
‘The carrot cake and the chocolate cake are both very good,’ he said.
Beth looked up. Her cheeks flushed when she realised it was Callum. Honestly, twice in two days? You couldn’t make this up. He would think she was totally following him. Her whole body felt like jelly as his elbow brushed against hers.So much for female empowerment, she said to herself crossly, willing herself to try and act normally.
‘You’re becoming quite the regular in here,’ he said pointedly.
She shrugged. ‘Erm, not really. This is only the second time that I’ve been in. Could say the same for you. Or is this your usual haunt?’ Beth was struggling to pull her eyes away from his very kissable mouth. She could tell Margaret’s eyes were lasered in on her — she’d be taking in every little detail of this interaction.
‘Must just be a coincidence,’ he said.
‘What can I get you?’ asked Cano the owner.
