SUMMERATFIREFLYBEACH

THEPERFECTFEEL-GOODSUMMERROMANCE

JENNYHALE

BOOKSBYJENNYHALESummeratFireflyBeach

TheSummerHideaway

TheSummerHouse

SummeratOysterBay

SummerbytheSea

ABarefootSummer

ItStartedWithChristmas

We’llAlwaysHaveChristmas

AllIWantforChristmas

ChristmasWishesandMistletoeKisses

AChristmastoRemember

ComingHomeforChristmas

Availableinaudio

TheSummerHideaway(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

SummeratOysterBay(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

SummerbytheSea(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

ItStartedWithChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

We’llAlwaysHaveChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

ComingHomeforChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

CONTENTSChapter1

Chapter2

Chapter3

Chapter4

Chapter5

Chapter6

Chapter7

Chapter8

Chapter9

Chapter10

Chapter11

Chapter12

Chapter13

Chapter14

Chapter15

Chapter16

Chapter17

Chapter18

Chapter19

Chapter20

Chapter21

Chapter22

Chapter23

Chapter24

Chapter25

Chapter26

Chapter27

Chapter28

Chapter29

Epilogue

TheSummerHouse

Jenny’semailsignup

BooksbyJennyHale

ALetterfromJenny

SummerbytheSea

SummeratOysterBay

ABarefootSummer

We’llAlwaysHaveChristmas

Acknowledgments

ForMary,whoItrulybelievehasbeenasilentcreativeforceinourfamily.

ONE

IftherewasanythingHallieFlynnshouldhavelearnedovertheyears,itwastolistentoherbestfriendBenMurray.Butsheneverdid.Andtodaywasnodifferent.

Atfourteen,shehadn’tlistenedwhenhe’dadvisedagainsthereatingtheentire triple-decker strawberry sundae atMilly’s Ice Cream. She’d insistedshecouldeatitall,butspenttherestoftheeveninglyingonthesofa,unabletomove,shooingawayhermother’sdinneroffers.Orthetimehe’dpromisedherthatshelookedbetterasanaturalbrunetteratherthanaplatinumblonde,butshe’dbleachedherhairanyway.

Andnow,inthefaceofgrief,hewasbyhersideagain,andsheknewsheneededtolistentohisadviceeventhoughshewasn’tsureshewould.

The news article her mother had kept on the counter for the last fewmonthswasburnedinhermemory:FireflyBeachresident,locallylovedandnationally known designer Clara Abigail Flynn-Eubanks, of the much-admired Starlight Cottage, passed away after battling a heart tumor,surroundedbyfamily,at9:07p.m.Tuesday…

Ben had been a strong emotional support for her throughAunt Clara’sfuneralsixmonthsago,andtodayhewastheretodothesame.

“Letme takea lookat the list again,”Ben said, steppingover from theedgeofhermama’sdriveway,hisblueeyesjustasconcernednowastheyhadbeenwhen she’d first told him about Aunt Clara’s final and very personallettertoher,andthelistshe’dincludedwithinit.

A prolific letter-writer, Aunt Clara had started writing to everyone she

knew themoment she’dheard that shewasn’tgoing tobeat the tumor.Herfamilyhadallgottenhand-writtenwordsfromher,withherwishesforthemand what she was leaving behind as a gift to each one of them, but onlyHallie’shadastipulationtogoalongwithit.

Hallieretrievedhergreataunt’scrumpledletterfromherpocketandhelditinherfist.She’dcarrieditaroundsinceshe’dgottenit,tryingtomakesenseofit.AuntClarahadgivenheralisttocompletebeforeshecouldreceiveherinheritance,butthelistwasoneHalliehadwrittenherselfwhenshewasonlytwelveyearsold.Andif thatwasn’tperplexingenough, theadditionalpieceof the puzzle was the fact that her inheritance was a mystery, sealed in asecondenvelopeandlockedawayinthefamilysafe.

ShehelditouttoBenandthenleanedoverhisshoulderashereadit.

ThingsIwanttodobeforeIdie:

1. Buildathree-footsandcastlelikeUncleHankcan.2. Becomeaphotographer.3. Livesomewherenew.4. KissaboyIlove.5. Makeawishandhaveitcometrue.

“Iagreewithyou; itdoessoundcrazy,”hesaid,scanning the listagain.HepasseditbacktoHallieandshestuffeditintoherpocket.“ButwhatiftheanswerforwhyClaraaskedyoutodothesethingsissosimplethatyoucan’tseeit?”

“Okay.Thenwhatisit?”

Hechuckled.“It’ssosimpleIcan’tseeiteither.”Butthenhesobered,thatfamiliar look of fondness washing over him. “That doesn’t mean youshouldn’ttrytocompleteit.Ithinkyoushould.”

OfcourseBen thought she should.Hallieclosedhereyesand filledherlungswithhumid,sun-soakedair,achingtohearthegullsoverheadandfeeltherushofturquoisewateraroundherankleslikeshehadsomanysummers.

Buteventhatwouldn’tsootheherthistime.

Benwassuggestingthatshecouldactuallydothis.Nothingshe’ddoneinthelastyearhadbeenasuccess,andthis,shefeared,wouldbenodifferent.

“RememberwhenIwassixteenyearsoldandyoucaughtmedressingupin Mama’s wedding dress?” Hallie asked him, squinting to focus on himthrough the blazing Tennessee sunlight that only June could bring, Ben’spresencecausingmemoriesofherchildhood to roll in likeagustofcoastalwind.

“Yeah,”Bensaidquietlyashestoodinfrontofher,acalmingpresenceinthemidstofachaoticday.Hehadhishandsinhispockets,sorelaxedthatshewasactuallyenviousofthesteadinessinhisbreath,thelackoftensioninhisshoulders. Shewanted to know the feelingof it again, to have that kind ofpeacesoakintoherbonesandhealherachingheart.

“Asagirl, Inever imaginednotwearing thatdressonedayorhavingafamilyofmyown.”Shepinchedthebridgeofhernose, tearswellingupastheydidsooftenthesedays,andlikeaflash,Benwasatherside,rubbingthetopsofherarmstocomforther.Shesqueezedhereyesshutuntilthewetnessinthemdissolved.

The hurrying around, and the noise from her family buzzing back andforthtothecarallmorning,hadgivenHallieaheadache.Thecarwasparkedin front ofBen’s jeep, both vehicles packed to the brimwith beach chairs,suitcases,bagsoffood…Toanyoneelse,itwouldseemtheywereallgoingonasummervacation fullof laughsand longdays in thesaltysprayof theocean.

Butthatwasfarfromthetruth.

A memory of happier times at Starlight Cottage slipped into herconsciousnessdespiteherdiligence toavoid thinkingof it atall:HallieandBenwereteenagers.Benhadchasedherdownthebeachwithagiantwater-launcherasshedodgedthepeltingspray,herlaughingslowingherdown,BengainingonherwhileAuntClaraandUncleHankhootedfromthedock.

The recollection, however,was too difficult tomanage now, afterAunt

Clara’s death. Even as she pushed it out of her mind, snippets of othermemories found theirway through.Like thecrunchofcrushedshellsunderher feet as she ran down the seashell path, sketchpad in hand, to draw thesunsetbeforeitdisappeared.Orthewalkwayleadingtothegrandfrontporch;the place she sat with Aunt Clara for hours talking about design, Hallieshowing her the pictures she’d drawn of ideas for how to rearrange herbedroom.

IfHallie closedher eyes shecould see theold ship’s rope thatwrappedaroundthelargepostsliningthewindingdrive,orthelatticeofthegazebooutback, paintedwhite tomatch the other buildings on the grounds, the placeshe’ddreamedofgettingmarriedasagirl…

She ran her thumb around her now bare ring finger, its nakedness aglaringreminderofeverythingthathadgonewrongoverthelastfewmonths—thepainfuldays,theevenmoreexcruciatingdiscussions,thecounselors…ShewasthethirdFlynntohavegambledonloveandlost.Butthatwasonlythesideofthingsthatshe’dsharedwithherfamily.Shedarednotsaytherestoutloudforfearnothingwouldeverbenormalagain.

“Istillrememberwhatyousaidaboutthedress.”

“Whatwasthat?”Benasked,hisgazeonher.

“Youtoldmetotakeitoff,thatitdidn’tlooklikeme.”

The corner ofBen’smouth twitchedupward and sheknewnow that heremembered that day. Their sharedmomentwas awelcome diversion fromthelifeshe’dbeenlivingrecently.Justthattinysmilefilledherwithhopethatthingscouldgetbetter,asifthewholeordealwassomesortofnightmareshecouldwakeupfromifshejuststayedlockedinBen’seyes.Yesterday,whenhe’dcomeovertohelpthempack,wasthefirsttimeinfourmonthsthatshe’dseenhimorevensomuchasgottena text.Evenwhen they’dmovedawayandattendeddifferentcolleges,they’dcalledeachothernearlyeveryday.Butrecently, their lives hadmoved in different directions, and when they had,she’dfeltdisoriented.

“Youalsosaidthatit’simpossibletohaveanyfuninadresslikethat.AndafterIchanged,youtookmebythehandanddraggedmeintothewoodsand

mademeclimbthatbigoaktreethatscaredmetodeath,remember?”

Ben broke into a laugh then, and a content grin settled upon his lips.“Yep.”

“Whenwegot to the top,wesat thereon that thickbranchwe’d found,lookingoutover thehillside.Wewereup sohigh that Iwas shaking likealeaf, but you were totally relaxed. You pointed to the sky and that hot airballoonswungrightoverus.ItfeltlikeIcould’vereachedupandtouchedthebasket.Itwassobeautifulthatittookmybreathaway.”

By the look on Ben’s face, the memory was clear. There was anundeniablefondnessinhisexpression.ShecouldalwayscountonBenwhenshewasscared.Hewas thatcalmforce in thestorm insideherhead.Whenhe’darrivedthismorning,shewantedtoclingtohim,tofeelhisarmsaroundhertokeephersafefromhertroublingthoughts.Butthey’dhadworktodotogetreadyfortheirtrip,soinstead,she’dsimplystayedbyhisside,allowingthefeelingofbeingwithhim,hiscomposureandpeacefuldemeanor,towashoverherandcleanseherofthemiserythatplaguedher.

“Yousaid,”shecontinued,“‘See?Youcanhavelotsmorefunwhenyouaren’tinthatolddress.’”

He’d been so right. And the last month, when things had gottensubstantiallyworse,shefeltlikeshecouldn’tbreathewithoutBen’ssupport.Ithadbeensolongsinceshe’dheldhisreassuringhand…Whenfacedwithherbiggestfear,evenherfiancéJeffcouldn’tfillthevoid,andbythatpointshe and Jeff had lostmost of the love they’d had for one another anyway.She’dwanted tohearBen tellher itwouldallbeokay,despite thefact thatsheknew itwouldn’t, because she trustedhimwithher life, andeven if hewastheonlyonewhobelievedit,thatwouldbeenough.

“Ishould’velistenedtoyouwaybackthen,”sheadmitted,swallowingtokeepheremotionsincheck.She’dstoppedthecounselorappointmentsearlierthanrecommended,andshe’dbeenstruggling,butnowshehadevenmoretodealwith.“Itwas true.AndJeffand I rushed into things. It’sas ifwebothnoticed somethingwasn’t right as soonashe askedme tomarryhim.”Shedidn’tdaretellBentherest.

“Whathappenedtofinallyendit?”

Herbreathspedupandshefeltlightheaded,scramblingtocomeupwithsomethingthatwasn’taliebutalsohidtherealtruth.“Ithinkthefinalityofanengagementmadeustakeahardlookatoneanother,youknow?”

Bennodded.

“IrealizenowthatIdidn’tloveJeffthewayIshouldlovesomeonebeforejumping into amarriage, but in the early days of our relationship it felt sogoodtohavethatpersonthereeverydaytorelyon,youknow?”Shekickedata stone on the pavement. “And now when I’m faced with this…” Halliesurveyed the packed car, its engine running on all cylinders to cool off theinterior in the summer heat before they headed out. “I feel exposed, like Idon’thaveanyonetoleanon,”sheconfessed.

“Youcanalwaysleanonme,”Bensaid.

Aftersomuchtimeawayfromher,hiswordsalmostbroughthertotearsagain.Shewassohappytohearhimsaythat.

“Hallie?”Mama’svoicesailedbetweenthem.

Benofferedaknowinglook.“I’llhelpher,”hesaid,andheadedinsidethehouse toget the last few thingswhenHallie’smothercalledagain, like shehadallmorning.

“Thanks.”

To clear her heavy thoughts, Hallie closed her eyes and listened to therustleofthetreesagainstasingleuncharacteristicallystrongbreezethatblewthrough,coolingher skinbrieflybeforedisappearing towhereverall theairwentduringthesummermonthsinNashville.Thestagnantwarmthfelluponher once more. It was this feeling of dead heat that used to fill her withexcitementwhentheypackedforFireflyBeach,assheyearnedforsoftwhitesand under her bare feet, the continuouswind that rippled the light, gauzysundressshelikedtowearoverherbikini,andthescentthatonlycamefromherfamily’suniquemixtureofhomecookingandcoconutcocktails.

“Idon’tknowifwe’vepackedthewine,”Mamasaid,rushingpastBenasheenteredthehouse,herarmsfull.“Hallie?”ShemaneuveredaroundHallie,

threwitallinthebackseat,andshutthecardooragain.“Didyougetthewinefrom the fridge and put it in the cooler? I didn’t see anyone bring it out.”MamathrustthepaperwiththearticleaboutAuntClaraintoHallie’shands.“Let’s take this toshowUncleHank. Idon’tknowifhehasacopy,andhemightwanttoreadthesekindwords.”

Hallie clutched the folded newspaper to her body. With the finalpreparations for their journey nearly complete, theweight inHallie’s chestfeltevenmorecumbersomethanithadbefore.

“Oh,Ben!You’readoll!”Mamahurriedover toBenandplantedakissonhischeekafterhereturnedwithhertwobottlesofchardonnay.Hehandedthem over. “Hallie, where’s your sister?” Grasping the wine, her motherwipedtheperspirationfromherforeheadwithherwrist,andthenplacedthebottlesintothecoolerwedgedbetweentwosuitcasesintheopentrunk.Thensheranbackinsidewithoutwaitingforananswer.

She’dbeengoingahundredmiles anhour allmorning—Hallie knew itwasherwayofhandlingher emotions.When shewasmoreherself,Mamahadalivelypersonalitywithalaughthatcouldmakeanyonehappy.

“You’vegotthis,”Benwhisperedintoherear,standingbehindHallie,hisgentlebut stronghandsonher shoulders,pullingher in tentatively, as ifhewasn’t sure if he was allowed to embrace her like he used to. Things hadchangedsomuchoverthelastfourmonths,butthatshouldn’thavechangedatall.Hewasherbestfriend.Sheleanedintohimtolethimknowthat.

Bencouldalwaysassess thesituationandofferkind,caringsuggestionsthatneverfailedher.Butevenhiswordscouldn’tbreakthroughthegriefthatkeptebbingandflowingsinceshe’dheardaboutAuntClara.Shetuckedthepaperunderherarm,herpalmssweatyfromnerves,herhandsshaking.

Musteringstrengthfromthebottomofheremptyshellofabody,Hallieturnedaroundtofacehim.“DoIhavethis?”Shenoticedthenthathervoicesoundedwitheredandexhausted,thetearsjustwaitingtospilloverliketheyhad the other times she’d allowed herself to think about life without AuntClara.Herfavoriteaunt,whowasknownforherimpeccabletiming,hadleftHallieathervery lowestandbecauseof that, therewere timeswhenHallie

wasn’tsureifhershatteredheartcouldmakeitthroughthis.

BenwrappedhisarmsaroundherandletHallieburyherheadinhischest.The familiar scent of clean cotton and the mix of mint, sandalwood, andvanillahadfilledherlungsmoretimesthanshecouldcount.Sheclosedhereyes to keep from sobbing. As if he could detect her swell of sadness, hesqueezedhertighterlikehewasholdinghertogether.Andinasense,hewas.

“Thankyouforbeinghere,”shesaidintohisshirt,herwordsbrokenbuthisembracemakingherfeelalittlebetterforthemoment.Halliepulledback.“Ihatethatitwasthissituationthatbroughtusbacktogether,butI’mgladitdid.Wehaven’tseeneachotherinmonths.That’snotlikeus.”She’dwantedtohearhisvoicesomanytimesoverthosemonths,butineveryinstancethatshe’dconsideredcallinghimshehadn’t,becauseshe thought sheshouldbestrongenoughtodealwithherownproblems.Butevenwhenshe’ddecidednottotellhimwhatwasgoingon,sheachedtohaveherbestfriendtheretotalkto.She’dthinkaboutitinthemiddleofthenight,butcouldn’tcallthen…“Whydidwelettimegetawayfromus?”

Bentookastepback,andsheletgoofhim.

Helookedoverthecar,tosomewhereinthedistance.“Life,youknow?”hesaid,hisfacefullofthoughts.

“Yeah…”

Suddenly, thewords tumbledout like they’dbeenwaiting toerupt fromherheartthiswholetime.“Iwishwecouldspendtimetogetherwithnothinghangingoverus.”Shelongedforthedayswhentheywereyoung,whentheyhadtheirwholelivesaheadofthem.“Ilovebeingwithyoubecauseyoudon’twantanythingmorethanwhatwehave,anditmakesmefeelsafe.”

Benheldhergaze.Hedidn’thavetosayanythingbecauseafteralltheiryearstogether,sheknewheunderstood.

“Hey,babygirl.Youdoin’okay?”Hallie’soldersisterSydneysaidfrombehind them. She stepped up next to Hallie and rubbed her back, herconsolingeyeshavingmetafewtearsthismorningaswell.

Hallie took in a jagged breath and gave her sister a sympathetic half-

smile.Theywouldgetthroughthis,shetoldherself,althoughshewasn’tsureshe believed it. Hallie piled her long hair onto her head to combat theswelteringweather.Theheatwas so strong today that she could see it as itdancedoffthelongwindingasphaltdrive,risingintotheskyinhazywavesanddisappearingamidsttheviewofthesurroundinghills.

“Ben!Iwanttoridewithyou!”

Sydney’sseven-year-oldsonRobbycamerunningout,hoppingexcitedlyinfrontofBen.LikeHallie,he’dbeenbyBen’ssideallday,untilSydneyhadmadehimsitdownforbreakfastbeforetheygotontheroad.Bentookhimbythehandsandspunhimaround,Robby’sfeetflying,hislaughterfloatingintotheair, thesoundlikeangelssingingin thehollowsofHallie’smind.WhenBensethimdownagain,Robbywrappedhisarmsaroundhiswaist.

“I thinkyou’regonnagowithyourmom,”Bentoldhim.“Butwe’reallheadingtothesameplace.”

Robbypulledawayandpretendedtopout,buthisfacebrightenedrightupinvoluntarily around Ben. “Will you show me the new fishing pole youbought?”

“Of course Iwill! Iwas planning to have you fishwith it.”He lungedtowardhimwithhisfingersintheTickleMonsterposition,thewayhealwaysdidwithRobby,makingRobbydartoutof thewaywithagiggle, theboy’slightbrownhairfanningacrosshisforeheadwiththemovement.

“Andcanweplayfootball?”Robbyasked,still snickeringasheduckedBen’sarm.

“Absolutely.”

RobbymaneuveredaroundthemandclimbedthroughthelastopendoorofMama’scar,wrigglingintoacomfortablepositioninthebackseatnexttoablow-up donut and a bag of sand toys. He pulled the seatbelt out andattempted to fasten it, his little hands sweaty in the heat, causing him tostruggletosecureit.Benwalkedoverandhelpedhim.

“Willyouridewithus,Ben?Please?”Robbyasked.

“IfIridewithyou,thenthatmeansHalliewillhavetodrivemyjeep,and

yourememberwhatitwaslikewhenshetriedtotakeittothestorethatonenight?”

“Thatwasawholeyearago,”Halliesaid,havingnothingbettertoretort,gladforthelighterconversation,thepainshiftingtothebackofhermindforjustamoment,givinghermuch-neededrelief.

“Andhowmanystickshiftshaveyoudrivensincethen?Youneedme!”Hewinkedather.

Yes.Shecertainlydid.

“Ifyouwantmetogetthere,Robby,Ihavetodrive.”

Halliemadeafaceathim,butsheknewhewasonlyteasinghertomakeRobbysmile.

“Honey, did Nana seem like she was about finished inside?” Sydneyasked.

Robbyshrugged.

“I’llgocheckonher,”Sydneysaid.

They’d all finished packing, but Mama had kept going back in,announcingthingsthey“needed,”butsoonerorlater,Mamatoowouldhavetofacetheroadahead.Theywerealljustlettingherprepareherselftodothatinherownway.

Sydneywent into the house and broughtMama outside onto the porch.BeaubarkedfromBen’sjeep.Benhadtakenthetopoffofhisvehicle,andthelab-spanielmixhadbeenwaitingpatientlyinthebackmostofthetime.Benwalkedovertohimandpettedthetopofhishead.

“Almosttime,boy,”hesaid,checkingthat thebowlofwaterhe’dset inthebackseatwasstillfull.

Beau looked at Ben with those big trusting brown eyes, his tonguehangingoutthesideofhismouth.Halliecouldalmostswearshecouldmakeout a smile on the dog’s face. A faithful companion, Beau never left Ben,trusting Ben’s every move. Hallie could understand that kind of devotioncompletelybecause,growingup,Benhadbeenthattypeofpersonforhertoo.

“Anything else we need?”Mama asked from the open front door. Shetried to fluff her short, disheveled hair, the few graying strands she hadnestled in thecropofdarkbrowncatching the light,makingher lookolderthanherfacewouldsuggest.

Therewasnothingmore theycouldpossiblypack.Whennoone spoke,shelockedupbehindher.

“Iguesswe’reasreadyaswe’lleverbe,”Sydneysaid.

“HasanyonetextedUncleHank?”Mamaworriedaloud.

Ben raised his phone. “I did. I told him we’ll see him in about ninehours.”

Robby leaned out of the car, oblivious to the emotions they’d all beenkeepingfromtheseven-year-oldforhisbenefit.He’dputonhissunglasses.Withagrin,hesaid,“FireflyBeach,herewecome!”

TWO

“Howmanyhavewefoundsofar?”Benasked,tappinghisfingersagainstthesteeringwheelashecounted.“I’vegotthree,right?”

HallierodebesideBeninthemetallicsierrabluevintagejeephe’dtreatedhimself to, using the first earnings he’d made after opening his ownproductioncompanyonMusicRow inNashville.Oneofhisnewestbands,SylvanPark,wasplayingloudlyoverthejeep’sspeakersandhadbeensincethey’demergedoffofInterstate65,headingsouth,themelodyascarefreeasanysummerdayshouldbe.

Hallielookeddownatthesheetofpaperthathadbeenwaitingforherinthepassengerseatalongwithaninkpenwhenshegotin.Itwasoneoftheirroad-tripgames: every time they took thenine-hourdrive toFireflyBeach,Benmadealistofthingstheyhadtofindonthewaydown,andthepersonwho found themost bought the other their first drinkwhen they got there.Hallie was always amazed at how they’d played this every trip and hemanagednever to repeat the items fromyear toyear.This listhadbeen themostchallengingofthemall.

“You’ve got a Virginia license plate, a baseball cap…” Hallie ran herfingerdownthelonglistofitemsinsearchofthethirdspotwhereshe’dputhisinitials.“And—”

“Teddybear!”hecutheroff,pointingtothecarnexttothem.

Hallielookedinsidethevehiclebesidethemtofindalittlegirlclutchinganoversizedpinkbear. “Howcanyouevensee thatwhenyou’redriving?”sheaskedwithalaugh.

“Noidea.That’sfour.”

“Hangon.Ithinkyouhavethree.”

“No,Ihavefour.Andyouhavetwo.Checkthelist.You’regoin’down!”

“Thenwhatwasnumberthree?”sheasked,tauntinghim.

Benglancedbetweenthepaperandtheroad.“You’recoveringitupwithyourthumb!”hesaid,pawingatthesheet.

Hallieplayfullyhelditoutofhisreach.

With his eyes on the highway, Ben reached over and tickled her side,causingher to collapse inonherselfwitha squeal,her armmoving inwardenoughthathecouldgrabthepaper.“Sofa!”Bencalledout,handingitbacktoher.“Ha!I’llstartthinkingofmydrinkordernow.Iwanttohaveareallygood one in mind by the time we get there. One of those fifteen-dollarbeauties…”

Hallierolledhereyes,butitwasallinjestbecausesheknewhe’dnevermakeherpay—heneverhad.She’dalwayshadtosurprisehimwithadrinkontheyearsshe’dwon,sohewouldn’toffertotakecareofthebill.

Theysettledintoaneasysilenceafterthat.

The sun warmed Hallie’s bare feet resting on the dashboard, her darkchestnuthairpulledintoaponytailtokeepthewindfromhavingitswaywithit. The summer humidity cried out for the cool breeze that could only befound on the coast. She turned toward the passing landscape. A runawaystrandofhairblewintoherfaceandshetuckeditbehindherear.

Shestraightenedherkneesandstretchedoutherlegsalongthedash,thesun casting flickering spots of light through the trees onto her skin as theyspeddowntheroad.ButHalliehardlynoticed,hermindquicklyreturningtothoughts of everything she’d been holding in and how she’d be able tomanageoncetheyreachedtheirimpendingdestination.SheglanceddownatthenewsarticleshewasbringingtoUncleHank,foldedbetweenthemintheconsole.

Hallie lowered her feet to the floor, reached over, and turned down the

music,thetwangofguitarsfadingintothewind.Beaushiftedbehindher.

“WhatifI’mnotstrongenoughtosupportUncleHank?”shesaid,feelingthefearinherwordsrisinginherthroatassignsforthelittlefishingvillageturnedcreativehavenfortheartscameintoview.

FireflyBeach:onemile.

“ImightbreakdowncompletelywhenIseehimlikeIdidatthefuneral,andI’dfeelawfulifthathappened.”

AuntClarawasthegluethatheldtheirfamilytogether.UncleHankhadhadhismomentswhenshe’dgottensick,andtheyweren’tsurehowhewasgoing to cope when the end came. His friends had told Mama that he’disolated himself at Starlight Cottage since Aunt Clara’s death, and he washardlytakinganyvisitors,whichwasn’tlikehim.

Halliepickedupthearticleandspreaditoverherlap,peeringdownatit,her gaze sweeping over the paragraph that read: Born April 3, 1933 toHoward and Willa Flynn, Clara married Hank Russell Eubanks on thegrounds of the Starlight Estate in 1968, in a small but formal ceremonydesigned entirely by her—she wouldn’t have had it any other way. Herweddingdress,alsoherowncreation, iscurrentlyondisplay in theHarlowMuseumofFashioninNewYorkCity.

Hallie ranherhandsalong thebackofherneck, andclosedhereyes torelievethepinch.

“Idon’tthinkheexpectsyoutobestrong,Hallie.ButIalsobelievethatyou’restrongerthanyouthinkyouare.”

Ifheonlyknew that itwasn’t that shecouldn’tmuster the strength,butratherthefactthatshe’duseditallupoverthelastfewmonthsandnowshehad nothing more left in her. Hallie had called Ben the Friday before lastwhen she’d found out she’d be visiting Uncle Hank, still unsure aboutwhetherornotshecouldhandlegoingtoFireflyBeach.WhenMamaheardthatUncleHank had completely isolated himself and peoplewereworried,shewentstraight toHallieandaskedher togo toFireflyBeach.Concernedthat he was still reclusive six months after Aunt Clara had passed, Mama

didn’twanttowasteanytime.

Ben had convincedHallie to go, and she’d asked him to come toAuntClara’scottagewithherbecauseshecouldn’tdoitwithouthissupport.He’dimmediatelyclearedhisschedule.Nowtheywerealmost there.UncleHankwaswaiting for them…Shehad to go throughwith this.But all she reallywantedtodowasjumpfromthemovingjeepandrunasfastasshecouldintheotherdirection.Maybethatwayshecouldpretendnoneofthiswasreal.

“Ican’tfacethatplace.”Sherubbedhereyes,thenumbingachethathadbeen in her head since Aunt Clara’s death returning. “It’ll bring all thememoriesbacklikeaflood,andImightnotsurviveit.”SheturnedaroundtoBeau and scratched his neck as he inched his head between her and Ben.“Mama’s better at taking care of people than I am. She always knows justwhat tosay. Idon’t thinkIshouldbe there.AndI feelguiltybecause,deepdown, I’m hoping I can convince Uncle Hank to give me the secondenvelope.”

Beau put his paw up on the console between the two of them andBensnapped his fingers lightly, pointing toward the back.Beau kissed his handbefore returning to his spot, hanging his snout out the side of the jeep.Helookedsocontent.HallieguessedthatifBeaucould’vetalkedtothem,hehadleanedforwardtotellthemthatiftheywantedtorelax,alltheyhadtodowastoinhalethesweetsmellofhoneysucklethatalwayspenetratedtheairrightbeforethewelcomesignforFireflyBeach.

TheypassedBerkley’sFarm,theplacewhereAuntClarahaddriveneveryJunetoloaduponpreservesforhercherrycobbler.BenusedtochaseHalliearoundthefields,playingHideandSeekintheoldbarns.

“Youknowhewon’tjustgiveyouthesecondenvelope,”Bensaid.“NotwhenClaraadvisedotherwise.”

Benwasrighteverytime,andifthistimewasnodifferent,thenwhywasshemakingthis tripatall?Herfrustrationbubbledupasanger.“MamaandSydneywerebothgiventheirinheritance.Theydidn’thavetodoanythingforit.Why is Aunt Clara making this so hard on me? I don’t even want hermoney.Ijustwanther.Andnoneofthisridiculousnessisgoingtofixthat.”

Benputonhisblinker and changed lanes, coming to a stop at the onlylightbeforetown.“Havefaith,Hallie,”hesaid,hisgazelingeringonherfaceuntilshenoddedtowardthelightthathadchanged.Heturnedhisfocusbacktotheroadandtheywereoffagain.

“Whydidshewantmetodothis?”Hallieasked,lookingoverathimasifhehadtheanswer.

HalliehadnoideaAuntClarahadevenkeptthelist,andnow,herrequestwas simply baffling.WhenHallie first read it, she said to herself, “This isridiculous. She can’t be serious. I don’t even want these things anymore.”Everyone else had been gifted large sums of money or coveted pieces ofjewelryfromherdesignercollection,rarechina,orevenitemsshe’dcollectedfromhertravelsaroundtheworld,butHalliehadgottenthis.AftereverythingHalliehadbeenthrough,herlistseemedtrivialatbest.

“The last one aboutmaking awish come truemight takemeyears,mywholelife,even,”shesaid,knowingnoneofherpreviouswishes—andshe’dhadsomany—hadcometofruition.“It’sabsurd.”

“She was a wise woman, Hallie. You know her: until her final breath,everythingshedidhadpurpose.Youhavetotrustherdirectionandtakeafewchances.Justrelaxintoitandseewhathappens.”

Benwasright.Notonlywasshewise;shewastheverypictureof love.Everythingshedidwasoutofaffectionforothers.Hallieopenedupthepaperinherlaptoviewthearticleonemoretime,asifthewordsonthepagewouldgivehersomeclarity.Shesmoothedthefolds,theedgesfightingagainstthewind,flappingmadly.

A renowned designer, Clara traveled as far as London and Paris,decorating for many well-known figures with her design firmMorgan andFlynn, leavingherbusinesspartnerSashaMorgan tomanage theaffairsofthemultimillion-dollarcompany…

HalliewonderedwhatSashafelt,takingitallonherselfatherage.BeingthesameageasAuntClara,shehad tobe thinkingabout retirement.Halliehoped she would. If anyone deserved to rest, it was Sasha. She and AuntClarahadworkedsohardandbuiltsomuchovertheyears.Halliehopedthat

Sashawasn’tstilltryingtokeepupthatpaceonherown.Atthefuneral,she’dbeenkindandcourteous,notdivulginganyfeelingsofherownapartfromthesadnessoflosingAuntClara.Butshe’dlookedasenergeticasever.Restwasprobablyforeigntoher.

ItwasAuntClarawhowastheexpertinrest.Halliecontinuedreading:

But it was the sprawling, unfussy cottage of Starlight that held Clara’sheart, where she chose to spend her days writing what she referred to as“loveletters”toeveryonesheknew,visitingwithfriends,or“recharginghercreativevoice,”assheputit,onthebeachsideporchofherhome.

Halliefoldedthepaperandturnedherheadtowardthepassinglandscape,to the palm trees lining the edge of the road and the little multicoloredcottages perched between them. Formally named Lauk Beach, a Choctawwordmeaning“fire,”thetownwasnicknamedFireflyBeachinthenineteen-twentiesbecause,atcertaintimesoftheyear,thecoastlinewasfullofthem,likelittlestarsthathadfallenfromtheheavens.

HalliefellbackintoherthoughtsastheFireflyBeachwelcomesignslidintoview.

THREE

The first thing Hallie noticed was that Aunt Clara wasn’t standing on theporchofthesprawlingStarlightCottage,whichsatlikeapearlonthegroundsoftheestate.Thishousehadbeenherrefuge,herplaceofcomfortnearlyherentire life. It was a symbol of the love that was shared within its walls, abeaconforher,agroundingpointtowhichshecouldalwaysreturnwhenlifegotdifficult.ButwithoutAuntClara, it suddenly lookeddifferent toHallie,andshefearedthatithadlostwhatitoncehad.

Thehousestoodinfrontofher,andinanoddway,Halliefeltbetrayedbyit.BecauseAuntClarawasn’t there togreetherwhenHalliepulledup thistime.Hallie had been to the cottage to see her auntwhen shewas ill, andagainforthefuneral,butitwasthisvisitthatthehouseitselfstoodout.EventhoughAuntClarahadalwaysreturnedtothishousetorechargeandbreatheinlifeagainafterahecticworkschedule,itcouldn’tsaveherthistime.Ithadfailedher.

Thoselastvisitshadbeenablur.Halliehadbeensopreoccupiedthatshehadn’t felt the void until this trip. She sharpened her hearing to see if shecouldpinpointconversationanywhere,whilesimultaneouslyfeeling theriseofemotionatthecolossalemptinessofthecottageandgrounds.

The hedges had grown out of their usual boxy shape, the branchespointing upward resembling haphazard, leafy fingers, as if even the foliagewerereachingforAuntClara—nothinglikethewayherauntwould’vekeptthem. Thewhitewashed exteriorwas in need of touch-up painting, and thedriveway had become slightly overgrownwith weeds. The last year, whileAuntClarahadfoughtforherhealth,hadclearlytakenitstollontheproperty.

Wherewasthestaffthatusuallytookcareofthegrounds?

Thepeelingbottomstepwasnowobscuredbythistlesandweedsthathadpushedtheirwaythroughthecrackbetweenthewoodandtheseashellwalk.Halliemoved past the sight to realize the front door was open, and in theentrywayshecouldseejustacorneroftheoldblack-and-whitephotoofAuntClaraandUncleHankstandingbesidetheclapboardStarlightsign,holdingaglassofchampagne.Thecottagehadbeeninthefamilyforgenerations,buttheywerethefirsttogiveitaname.Thephotocapturedhermemoryofthemperfectly.AuntClara’s heart-shaped lipswere smiling, the gesture reachinghereyes.Besideher,UncleHankhadanundeniablesophistication.Halliehadalwaysadmiredhiminthatphoto.HelookedlikeCaryGrant.

They’dnamedthecottageStarlightbecauseof thelighthousethatsatonitsownprivatepeninsula,juttingoutintothesea,behindthemainbuildingonthe Eubanks’ expansive property. For years, the lighthouse illuminated thewater with a breadth of nearly twentymiles, assisting the usually dazzlingstars when cloud cover hid them. With the increased use of electronicnavigationalsystems,itwasn’taworkinglighthouseanymore,butAuntClarahadalwaysmaintainedit,andonChristmas,she lit it.Shesaid that,on thatnightinparticular,shewantedjustonemoreopportunitytogetsailorshometo their families where they belonged. Hallie used to play in its echoingstaircase, facing the gulf, pretending she was alone, shipwrecked on adesertedisland.Thelighthouseseemedisolatednow,abandonedandshowingwear like the main house, giving her an eerie feeling that her childhoodmusingshadforeshadowedfutureevents.Itmadehershiver.

Suitcases dotted the long country porch that wrapped around theenormousdwelling.HallieandBenhadbeenquiteadistancebehindMamaonthewaythere,soshewonderedwhyhermotherhadn’tfinishedunpacking.Mama’s car doors were still ajar, the trunk open. Sydney would’ve gottenRobby’sthings,certainly…

Beau jumped out of the jeep, landing beside her, his tail waggingfuriously, while Ben pulled two bags from the back and set them onto thedrive.Halliefocusedonthehissingofthesmallgulfwavesastheybrokeontotheshorebehindthecottage,andthetinklingofthewindchimeonthecorner

ofthefrontporch,whichwasmissingoneofitssea-glasspieces.

Benofferedawideglanceof theproperty,buthisappraisaldidn’tshowanyjudgment.Itwasclear,whenheturnedhisattentionbacktothejeep,thathedidn’twanttolingeronthedisrepairorthefactthatthingswereamisswithher family.Hewas clearly trying to keep her spirits up, not knowingwhattheywouldfindinside.“I’llgeteveryone’sthingsintothehouse,”hesaid.Hepulledaduffelbagfromthebackanddroppeditontothedriveway, thebagmaking a smack as it hit the pavement. “I’m guessing yourmama’s gonnahavehersameroominthemainhouse.Wantmetoputourthingsoutback?”

By“outback,”Benmeanttheguesthouse.Halliehadalwaysstayedintheguesthouse.Itwasherownlittleretreat,nestledontheedgeoftheproperty,astone-walk away from the main dwelling. As a teenager, she’d liked theindependence; incollege,she’dsavored thesolitude;andnow, itwasasafedistancefromthegriefsheknewwouldwashoverhercompletelytheminuteshesetfootinAuntClara’shousewithouther.Shecouldn’tshakethefeelingthatthismomentinherlifewasthemostimportanttimetohaveAuntClaratohelpher,butshe’dleftthemall,andifHallieallowedherselftothinkaboutthepermanenceofeverythingthathadhappened,panicwouldsetin.

“That’llbegood,”shemanaged.“Butletmehelpyou.”

“Don’tworry yourselfwith it.You need to find your family. Check onyour uncle.” He lifted another bag from the backseat and slid it onto hisshoulder, then took one of the suitcases by the handle. When she didn’trespond,Benmovedinfrontofher.“Youcandothis,Hallie.”

She knew she should listen to her best friend—she’d learned howimportantthatskillwas—butthiswasn’tlikeanythingshe’dfacedbefore.

“Hey,”Bensaid,bringingherattentionbacktohisface.“Theminuteyouneedme,I’llberightintheguesthouse.”

“Youwon’tcomewithme?”

Hisfacesoftened,anaffectionatelookinhiseyes.“Iwillifyouwantmeto,butI thinkfacingthisissomethingyouneedtodowithyourfamily.I’llhangback andget someworkdone.And I also thinkonceyou realizeyou

havethestrengthtodothis,everythingwillseemeasier.”

“Okay.”Shedidn’tbelievehim.Hedidn’tknowwhathewassayingwiththewordeverything.

BenwhistledandBeautrottedoverfromtheedgeoftheyard,standingatattentionbesidehim.“Let’sgetallthesebagsin,boy,”hesaid,pattingBeau’ssidewithhisfreehand.Thentheyheadedtotheguesthouse,andwhenheleftHallieinthedrive,itfeltlikehe’dtakenallheroxygenwithhim.

Hallieslowlymoveddowntheseashellwalkwayleadingtothehouseandclimbedthewidestepstothefrontdoor,theboardscreakingunderherfeet.She stopped in the entryway, Aunt Clara’s familiar scent of lilac andcinnamon taking her breath away again momentarily. She longed to nestledown into her aunt’s loving embrace, under the spell of Aunt Clara’s softwords telling her it would all be just fine. She held her breath briefly andclosedthefrontdoorbehindher,shuttingoutthecoastalbreeze.

Halliesteadiedherself,fightingoffthefeelingoflossbeforeitswallowedher.Shecountedherbreathstorefocusuntilherinhalationswereshallowbutmanageable.Shecalled,“Mama?Sydney?”

Nooneanswered.

ShepassedUncleHank’soldSteinwaypiano in thecornerof thegrandformallivingroomjustofftheentryway.Itsatempty,dusthavingdulleditsusuallyshinyblacksurfaceover thelongyearhe’dhad,nursingAuntClaraandmourning her death. The ghostly tune of his rendition of FranzLiszt’s“LaCampanella,”thetinktinktinkofUncleHank’sfingersagainstthekeys,hisheaddown,hisarmstretchingtothefurthestendofthepiano—itplayedinhermind,makingthehairstanduponherarms.

Halliemoveddownthehallwaytowardthebackofthehouse,pausingattheantiquetableagainstthestairstofindAuntClara’scarkeys,presumablystill placed where she’d put them last. Her chest constricted with anunbearableforce.Shereachedintoherpocketandwrappedherfingersaroundthelist,asifitwouldsummonherfavoriteauntbackintoherlife.

“Mama?”shecalledagain,hervoicebreaking.“Whereiseveryone?”

Inthesilence,herflip-flopsslappedthehardwoodsleadingtothefamily’spreferred gathering place, facing the southern side of the property and theglisteninggulf.Thekitchenstretchedalongtheentirebackofthehouse,witha farm table thatcouldeasilyseat sixteen,avaseshe rememberedsomeonesendingincondolenceafterthefuneral,nowcontainingonlywitheredstemsandremnantsofbaby’sbreath,initscenter,therestoftheflowerarrangementlonggone.

Thebackwasopen just like the fronthadbeen, and the screenedporchdoor outside rattled against its frame in the coastal wind, the heat sailinginside and enveloping her as she neared it. Hallie stepped out, facing thebackyard,closingthedoor,andslippedonthesunglassesthatwereontopofherhead.Thesunwasrelentless,beatingdownonthecoastline,whichsnakedaroundthepeninsulalikeasoftsandypearl-coloredribbon.Robbywasdownonthebeach,playing in thesand,andHalliemadeout therestof themjustpast the lighthouse, in the gazebo at the end of the dock that sat in a tinyalcoveofcalmwater,whereHalliehadlearnedtoswim.

“Oh,Hallie!You’rehere!”Mamacalled,wavingtoherfromthegazeboacrossthehugestretchofproperty.“ComehelpuswithUncleHank!”

Mama’svoicewasstrained,worried—Halliecouldhear thealarminhertoneeven from thatdistance.Pickingupherpace, shepushedany thoughtsshe’dbeenhavingout of hermind, her total focuson thepresent situation.Herstridesswallowedthemassiveyardassheranthroughthegrass towardtheshore,whereMamaandSydneywerestrugglingwithUncleHankonthedock.

Dismayanduncertaintypeltedherwhilesheran.UncleHankwaslikeafathertoher,sinceherownfatherhadleftthemwhenshewasonlythree.NoFlynnhadbeensuccessfulinloveexceptAuntClara.She’dmanagedtofindhappinesswithUncleHank.Becausehewasagood seed.UncleHankwasdifferentfromtheothers.Hewasalwaysthere,asreliableasthemorningsun.WhenHalliearrived,she’dhopedtocomethroughthedoorwithhimquietlysittingathispianoorreadingthepaperonthebackporchlikeheusedto,butshefoundherselfintherealityshe’dfearedinstead.

She reached the dock that had seemed to stretch into eternitywhen shewas a child, but was nowmuch shorter. Hallie rushed down to her uncle,careful not to wobble in her flip-flops as they slid around her feet withperspirationandthehumidair.

WhenHallie got to the gazebo and toUncleHank,Mamawas leaningoverhimandSydneywasathisside,holdinghishandashesat,slumped,onthebench.

“What’swrong?”sheasked,outofbreath.

Halliewas immediately overcomewith her uncle’s appearance.Hewasfrail,thin,nothinglikethetoweringmanwhohadbeenherfamily’sprotectorgrowingup.Hisshouldershunchedforwardashetippedhisheaduptoher,his skin almost translucent, and shewonderedwhenhe’dbeenoutside last.Shechokedbackasob,thegreatlosstheyallhadsufferedoverwhelmingher.She pressed her lips together and pushed her shoulders back so as not tocrumpleintotears.

“I’vejustbeendizzy,that’sall,”UncleHanksaid.Hisvoicewasgruffandlifeless, not the voice that had cheered her on as she took off down thepavementonherfirstbicycleafterhe’dletgoofthebackoftheseat.Sydneygaveheraworriedlookoutofhislineofsight.

“He losthisbalancewhenhe tried togreetus,”Mamasaid,her facenosofterthanithadbeenwhenshewaspackingthecar.“I’mcallingthedoctorassoonaswegethiminside.”

“Youdon’thavetotalkaboutmelikeI’mnothere,”UncleHankbarked.

“I’msorry,”Mamasaid,whippingaroundtofacehim.

UncleHankshowedremorsebeforehepeeredovertherailingatthewaterthatceaselesslylappedunderthem.Helookedolder,moretiredthanhehadatthefuneral.Therimsofhiseyeswerered.

Halliebitherliptokeepfrombreakingdown.Thetidalwaveofemotionthat hadplaguedher in the lastweekswaswashingoverher, fillingherupagain,andshedidn’twanttofallaparthere.She’dbeenrighttobescaredtocome.Shefeltempty,notearsleft,buttheystillmanagedtoprickhereyes.

Shewasn’tinanyshapetohelpUncleHank,andhelookedlikeheneededalotofhelp.Hedeserved tohavefamilyaroundhimto lifthimup—andshecouldn’t.She tried to thinkofwhatAuntClarawoulddo ina situation likethis,butshewassoemotionallyspentthathermindwasblank.

ClarawasthesisterofHallie’sgrandfather,butHalliehadnevermethim.Being considerably older thanAunt Clara, he’d passed away before Halliewasborn,andhergrandmotherafewyearslater.WithnootherfamilytohelpMamawhenherhusbandleft,UncleHankandAuntClarahadtakeninher,Sydney,andHallieuntilMamacouldgetonherfeetfinancially.

Aunt Clara and Uncle Hank had never had children of their own, andwhenAuntClarawasn’tconsumedwithhercompany,shetookgreatcaretorestatFireflyBeach.Shewasafirmbelieverthatoneshouldworkandrelaxinequalamounts,soHallieguessedthat,givenhowhardsheworkedonthebusiness,therewasnoroomforchildrenifshewantedtohavethedowntimesheneeded.Butherlovewasenormousandallencompassing,andifanyonewould’vebeenawonderfulmother,itwasAuntClara.Withouther,itwasasiftheywereallflounderingaround,unabletotakecareofoneanother.

“I’ll getBen,”Hallie said, her voice breathy, tautwith the sadness thathadwelledupinherthroat.“Hecanhelpusgetyoutothehouse.”

UncleHankwobbledashetriedtostand,histwitchinghandclutchingtherailing,theotherpressingintoSydney’sgrasp,causinghersistertoscrambletosupporthim.“I’mfine.Igotmyselfouthere;Icangetmyselfbackinside.”

“Ipanickedwhenhewasn’t inthehousewhenwearrived,”Mamasaid.“Wefoundhimsittingbyhimselfouthere.Wherearethegroundskeepersandyourcleaningstaff?”Mamaclipped,herconcernforhimmakingheredgy.

“I let them all go.” Uncle Hank grappled again for the railing, but hecouldn’tgetaholdonitandcollapsedbackdownononeknee.Mamahelpedhimup.“Someonekeepsprowlingaroundnearthewindowsintheevenings,andI’mnotinanyshapetowardanyoneoff,so,sinceIcouldn’ttellwhoitwas,Igaveeveryonetheirnotice.”

Mama’s eyes widened as she put her arm around his waist, Hallie andSydneysupportinghisotherside.“Someone’sbeenlurkingontheproperty?”

Sydney tipped her head up and scanned the beach frantically, exhalingloudlywhenshecaughtsightofRobby.

“Ihaven’tbeenabletosleepwell,”hesaid,oncehewassecurelystandingwiththeirhelp.“It’salonefigureinthenight,amale.Lumbering,notinanyhurry.Idon’tknowwhathewants.”

“Haveyoucalledthepolice?Attheveryleast,that’strespassing,”Sydneyoffered,herforeheadcreasedwithconcern.Herheadcontinuedtoswivel,hermaternalinstinctsonoverdrive.

“No.Itwasonlyafewtimes.Andtobehonest,whatistherethathecantakefrommethat isn’talreadygone?”Hebecameunsteadyagain,grabbingontothem.

“We’llgetsomeonetolookintothis,”Mamasaid.

“I thought thefreshairwoulddomesomegood.I’msuffocatingin thathouse…”

“Robby!”Sydneycalled.“Let’sgoinsideforalittlewhile.”

RobbyrantowardthemastheylaboredtoholdUncleHank.Despitehisdeterioration,hewasstillabigman,anditwastakingalltheirmighttokeephimsteady.Withnothingbutwateroneithersideof thedock,Halliedidn’tevenwanttothinkaboutwhatmighthavehappenedifhe’dlosthisbalancegettingouttothegazebo.

Theyallstoppedforasecondtocatchtheirbreath,andHallietookstockof her surroundings.The breeze blew in, carryingwith it the briny air andsaltyresiduethatsettledonherskinwhenevershewasthere.Theskywasaperfectshadeofblueagainsttheemeraldseathatpawedatthepowderysandthesamewayithadwhenshewasagirl.Thelighthousecastalongshadowacross the once pristine yard, in need of work now. Other than the yardrequiringalittlesprucing,nothinghadchangedontheedgeofthewatersheknew so well, yet at the same time, nothing was the same. She squeezedUncleHanktighter,steppingalongbesidehimastheybegantomoveagain,wonderingwhattheweeksaheadwouldbring.

FOUR

Halliewasshakentothecore,unabletounderstandhowanythingcouldeverbe okay from this point forward. Once they’d gotten Uncle Hank into thekitchen, shewent back outside, around the side of the housewhere no onecouldseeher,andcrieduntilthatfamiliarfeelingofemptinesstookoverandhertearsstopped.Thewindblewagainsther,tunnelingfromthesea,pasttheboathouseandup toStarlightCottage.Shecaughtsightofasailboaton thehorizon,andfocusedonittotrytogetherselftogether.

“Oh,sorry.”Avoicestartledher,makingheryelp.

Shewasn’tpreparedtoseeanyone.Andthemanstandinginfrontofherwassomeoneshedidn’trecognize.Shelookedaroundcarefullytofindaclearpathincasesheneededtorun,herhandsbeginningtotremble.Onceshehadawell-defined lineof exit, shemadeeyecontactwithhim.Hedidn’t seemdangerous,butshedidn’ttrustherintuitionthesedays.Hewaswearingpaint-splatteredclotheswithaclearlyunintentionalstreakofblueinhishair,andhehadkindgreeneyes.“Areyouokay?”

“Yes,” she sniffled, squaringher shoulders andblinking rapidly to clearhervision.

Compassionwashedoverhis face. “Iwasn’t trying to sneakuponyou.I’msosorry—Iknowyourunclehasbeencarefulaboutwhoheletsontotheproperty.”Cautiously,heleanedaroundher.“Mypaintcansarebehindyou.”He nodded toward a stack of silver containers by the spigot. “I’m GavinWilson.HankEubanks hiredme to redo the trimonStarlightCottage.Thestormlastwinterreallyputahurtingonit.”Heheldouthishandingreeting.

“I’mHallieFlynn,hisgreatniece.”Sheshooktheman’shand.

“Nicetomeetyou.”Hehadagentlesmile,asifheweretreadinglightly,given her obviously emotional state. “Hank and I had a long talkwhenwefirstmetacoupleofmonthsago,andIknowhepreferstobealoneouthere,butwhenhe’sonanup-day,aswecallit,hegivesmearingandIcomeouttoseehim.He’sstillveryparticularaboutwhenI’mtocome.Ican’tgetheretooearly and I have to leave before dark.He sits in the front living room andwatchesmegofromthewindow.Hesaidhe’sconcernedaboutmysafety.I’mnotsurewhy…”Gavinhuffedoutalittlechuckle.“Shouldn’titbetheotherwayaround?”

“I’m surprised he’s painting the trim when there’s so much more thatneeds to be done,” she said, still a little suspicious, taking stock of everytwitchormovementGavinmade.

“Well,hedidn’tseeminterestedinaesthetics.Henoticedanareathatwasrottingandcausingaleakinsidebecausethewoodwasbareandopentotheelements.Heonlywantedtosealitup,butIreplaceditwithweather-resistantwood. Painting it all with a good water-repellent paint and then the sealerhelpstokeepitingoodshapeduringstorms.”

“Oh,”shesaid,figuringheseemedtobegenuine.Shewipedhersweatyhandsonhershorts,hernervesgettingthebestofher.

“Hope I didn’t get paint onyou,” he said, inspecting her fingers.Therewas an awkward pause. “So… I’m sorry. I’ve been going on and on but…Youmightneedtobeleftalone.”

“Wehadatoughmomentwithmyunclejustnowanditshookmeup.”

“Ifyoudon’tmindmeasking,whathappened?”

Hallierecountedtheevents,everywordsoundinglikesomeoneelse’slife.

“I just got here; I wish I’d come sooner. Is there anything I can do tohelp?”

“Thank you, but he’s okay for now, I think. We got him inside andsettled.”

“I worry about him, being out here alone. Sometimes I break up mypainting intodifferentdays just so Icancomemoreoften tocheckonhim.ThepeopleI’vemetintownareallreallyconcernedabouthim.Theysayhe’sneverbeenlikethis.Theyallmisshim,butIknowhe’shurting.”Hetookasteptotheside,andshefelthershouldersmomentarilytense,butGavinhadatrustworthyqualityabouthimthatmadeherremindherselftorelax.

“That’sreallykindofyou.”

“Well,I’llgetbacktowork,butletmeknowifyouneedanything.”Hiswordswerefriendly,andhespokewithafamiliarityasifthey’dknowneachotherforsometime.

“Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome.”Hisgazelingeredonherforamoment,asifhecouldsenseallherpain,andseethroughhercounterfeitsmile.Buthepickedupthepaintcansandsaidgoodbyeoverhisshoulder,beforedisappearingaroundthesideofthehouse.

Thehousewassoisolatedthatnoonewouldheariftheyneededhelp,soitwasgoodtoknowGavinwasaroundatleastsometimes.WhathaditbeenlikeforUncleHanktospendeverynightherealone?She’dbeenselfishnottohave come before now, and her heart achedwith that reality. Shewas gladtheywere all there.She couldn’t believeUncleHankhad livedhereonhisownintheshapehewasin,andwithoutAuntClara.

Mamahadbeenabletogetsometimeofftovisitafewmonthsago,butUncleHankhadn’tbeenas frailashewasnow.AsfarasHallieknewhe’dbeen fine then, and he also hadn’t mentioned anything amiss about theproperty.With Aunt Clara gone, people around Firefly Beach had tried tolook out forUncleHank, but amidst his grief, he’d shut everyone out. Hehadn’t seen any of his friends since the funeral. When their good friendMaggie had calledMama to say no one had seenHank inweeks, they allknewthattheyhadtogodowntobewithhim.

IthadtakenthemquiteawhiletogetHankinsidefromthedock,hisstepsawkwardandsmall.Hekeptcreatingexcuses—hewas just tired; theyweremakingmoreofitthanitwas—buthe’dbeenstrugglingtocatchhisbreathby

thetimethey’dmadeitintothehouseandtoachair.Hallienoticedhehadn’tgottenupafterthat.

Hallie headed back inside to check onMama and her sister. She foundthembothoutsideMama’sbedroom.Mamawasgratefultohaveherbagsinher room, thanks to Ben. By her downturned features, the day had clearlytakenitstollonher,andshetoldHalliethataftershecalledthepolicestationabouttheprowler,shewantedtoliedownforalittlewhile.

“This is a big house,” Sydney said quietly, as the two of themwalkedoutside soRobbycouldplayon thebeach again. “Howwill he continue tolivehereifeverydayislikethis?Hisroomisupstairs.Hecouldhardlyfindhisbalance togetup the three steps to thebackporch.Andwhat ifhe’s indanger?”SydneypulledhereyesfromRobbyandcastatroubledlookovertoHallie, her auburn curls fuzzing up with the humidity and the effort she’dexertedtobringUncleHankinside.

“Maybehe’llgetbetterwithallofushere.Andmaybeourpresencewillkeepwhoever it is away from thehouse,”Hallie said,grasping forhope. Ifshedidn’thope,she’dstartsobbingrightthereintheyard.Herheadpoundedandshefeltexhausted.Allshewantedtodowastogetintoacoolshower,letthewaterrunoverheruntilshewasnumb,putonherpajamas,andcrawlintohercrispsheets,driftingofftogivehermindabreakfromallthis.

“You look really beat,” Sydney said. “I’m gonna sit on the beachwithRobby for a little while. Why don’t you go find Ben and fill him in oneverything?Wecantakeabreakandthenregrouponcewe’veallrested.Let’shavedinnertogether.”

Hallieinhaledthesaltyairandletitout.“Thatsoundsgreat.”

“TellBenthankyouforbringinginourbags.”

Halliewasso luckythatBenhadbeenable tocomewith them,andsheneededhimnowmorethanever.Herlimbsshookwiththeeventsoftheday,andshewantedtocurlupnexttohimandburyherheadinhischest.“I’lltellhim,”shesaid.Hallieturnedaroundandheadedtowardtheguesthouse.

When she entered, Ben had papers full of lyrics, sheet music, and

timetables spread out on the island and music playing—there was alwaysmusic playing when he was around. The air carried a sweet scent ofblackberry and alcohol, and she knew immediatelywhat itwas. Two smallglasses,filledwithherfavoritedessertwine,satonthekitchencounter.

The sun streamed through the large windows that overlooked the gulf,giving aglow to thewhitewashedwalls andpainted floors.AuntClarahaddecoratedtheguesthouseinwhitesandnauticalblues,andHalliehadalwayslovedtherustic,beachyfeelofit.WhenAuntClarawasdrawingthedesign,Halliehadsatbesideher,madlyscratchingherownsketchesinherdrawingbook,tryingtocopywhatAuntClarahaddone.

Shetookoneoftheglassesandwalkedthroughtheopenroomtothesofa,sinkingdownintoit.

“Iheardyouheadingup thewalk,”Ben said, coming in from the smallhallway that led to the single bedroom. He grabbed his glass and loweredhimselfontothesofanexttoher.Theireyesmetbeforehetookasipofwine.“How toughwas it?”heasked,placing theglasson thecoffee table,whichwasmadefromanoldrowingoar.“Fromthelookonyourface,I’dsayitwasprettyhard.”

Hallieleanedforward,positionedherwinenexttohis,andputherfaceinher hands, totally drained. “Uncle Hank isn’t well,” she said through herfingers.Hereyesachedwiththethreatoftears,whichmadeherwholebodyfeelweak.“Andthere’smorethanthat.”ShetoldhimabouttheprowlerandUncleHank’slackofstrength,thedizziness,howworriedshewas…

Benpulledherinforahug.Hallienestledagainsthischest.Hiscalmingpresencewouldkeepherafloat.Ithadonlytakenonecalltolethimknowsheneededhimandhe’dpacked,anddrivenstraightover tobewithHallieandherfamily.Butsuddenly,somethinghither.She’dbeensowrappedupinherownemotionsthatshehadn’tevenstoppedtoconsiderwhatBenwasgivingupbybeingthere.

“Weren’tyougoing tocut that recordwith thebandyou’dheardatTheBluebird?”sheworriedaloud.He’dtextedherbeforethingshadgottensobadwith Aunt Clara, so excited to have found this group—only now had she

remembered through the fog of everything going on.She tilted her head tolookupathim.

“Ipushedittotheendofsummer.”

Hereyesgrewwide,knowinghow longhe’dalreadyhad towait togetthemintothestudio,givenhisbusyschedule.

“It’s fine. It’s music festival season; everyone’s focused on that. I toldthem itwouldbewise toholdoffuntil the fall.September’s really thebesttime for new bands. They said they could use a little more writing timeanyway.Theyhavea slightlydifferentdirection they’re thinkingabout, andtheywanttorunitbyme,buttheyneedmoretimetogettheirsongsdown.”

“Thatseemsawfullyeasy.Areyoujusttryingtomakemefeelbetterfordraggingyouaway?”

Hechuckledandthenhisfacebecamehumorless,hisentirefocusonher.“Iwouldn’thavemissedthisforanything.”Thenhegaveherabigsqueeze,leanedforward,andhandedhertheglassofwine.

She was still apprehensive, realizing that not only had she not thoughtabouthisworkcommitments,shehadn’taskedaboutBen’sgirlfriendeither.AshleywasthreeyearsyoungerthanHallie,kindandsoft-spoken,andHalliecouldrelatetoherquietnature.SheandHalliehadhititoffrightawaywhenBenintroducedthemataChristmasparty,afterBenhadfirstmether.HallieandAshleyhadallkindsofthingsincommon:theysharedthesametasteinmusic,they’dreadthesamebooks,they’devenbothvolunteeredatthesamehomeless shelter. But more noteworthy was the fact that Ashley had alsospentsummersatFireflyBeachsinceshewasagirl.Herfamilyhadacottagejustdowntheroad.Itwasawonder,withallthat,thattheyhadn’tmetsooner.

“WasAshleyokaywithyoucoming?”

Bennodded.“Yeah.”

“She’s so great. She’s just the kind of girl you should be with. Youdeservesomeonefantasticlikeher.”

Hesmiled,andthenshiftedawayfromHallieagaintoreachhiswine.Hetook a long swig. “What’s the plan for the rest of the evening?” he asked,

changing the subject. That was just like Ben: always giving her his fullattention,worryingmoreaboutherwellbeingthanhisown.

She yawned, the day’s events catching up with her. “I think we’re allgoingtotrytohavedinnertogether.”

“Everyone’stootiredtocook,I’msure.HowaboutifIordersomefoodforeverybodyandrunintotowntopickitup?MaybeWesandMaggie’s?”

“Thatsoundsamazing.”

“Perfect.Findoutwhateverybodywants,andI’llputinanorder.”

Halliepulledoutherphoneand textedSydney to letherknowtheplan.“I’llgowithyou,”shesaid,happytohaveareasontogointotownandletthemagicofFireflyBeachseepintohersoul,likeitalwayscould.

FIVE

TheredandbluebungalowknownasWesandMaggie’swassurroundedbypalmtreesandsatrightonthewaterinastripofsand.Therestaurant’sglowofoutdoorlightingmadeitshineagainstthestreaksofaquaanddeepblueoftheGulf ofMexico behind it.Matching red and blue flags, fightingmadlyagainst the coastal wind, lined the outdoor seating, which was full ofvacationers,theirfacesallflushedfromtoomuchsunandthecocktailstheywerebeingservedundertheeveningsky.Theintenseheathadsubsidedtoabearablebalminesswiththesunset.

“It’sbeenawhile,”Bensaid,openingHallie’sdoorofthejeep.

NexttoWesandMaggie’swasCupofSunshine,thelocalcoffeeshop.Itwasquiet thisevening,butinthemornings,year-round,everyseatwasfull.Localsandvisitorsalikecouldn’tgetenoughof theirsignaturebutterpecanlatteortheirhomemadepumpkinpiebreakfastbread,andtheownerMelissaeven prepared deliciousFrench toast servedwith a drizzle of cream cheesesyrup. Every patron, nomatter how small the purchase,went homewith acomplimentary dark chocolate truffle that had an icing-piped chocolatesunshineonthetop.Astheywalkedpast,Melissacaughthereyethroughthewindowoftheshopandwaved.

“Shouldwegetadrinkatthebarbeforewepickupthefood?”Bensaid,pullingHallie’sfocusbacktohim.

“Ioweyouoneanyway,”shesaid,playfullyknockingintohimwithhershoulder.“Weweretiedthewholetrip!Andyoufoundgolfclubsatthelastminute before the game was over—I can’t believe you found golf clubs.”

He’dspottedthemhangingoutofthebackofsomeone’scar,filledtothebrimwithvacationparaphernalia.

ItfeltgoodtobeintownwithBen.ItmadeHalliefeelmorenormal,sincethey’d spent somany years here together. Before everything had happenedwithJeffandAuntClara,Halliehadbeenfullof life.She loved to laugh—Bencouldmakeher laughwithouteventryingandsometimes,whenhedidtry, they’dget tolaughingsohardthathersideshurtandherjawfelt likeitwould cramp up and freeze into a smile if she didn’t offer it relief. Sheyearnedtofeelitagain.

“Nah,mytreat.”

“Youwon,fairandsquare.”

“Youcangetmeonelater,”hesaid.Theyreachedtherestaurant,andBenallowedHallietoenterfirst,theinteriortakingherbacktobettertimes.

The small bistro tables with starfish and seashells floating from theceiling,suspendedby fishing lines,were justas theyhadbeen the last timeshe’d visited; the bar had the same driftwood stools, andWeswas servingdrinks.Hegreeted themacross the roomwithanexcitedwaveandawarmsmile.

SimonPetty,alocallandscaper,wasathispostattheendofthebar,nexttothedartboard.AslongasHalliecouldremember,that’swherehe’dalwayssat.Inreturnfortakingcareofthegroundsandsurroundingbeach,WesandMaggiepaidhimnotonlyhisfeebutindrinksandmealsaswell,sinceSimonwas a lifelong bachelor.Maggie had toldHallie once, “That poorman hasnever known the delights of having a woman cook for him—probably notsincehismama—andthat’satragedy.”SoMaggiemadesurehehadagoodmealonceaday.

“Oh, am I glad to see you two,”Wes saidwhen they got over to him.HalliepulledoutastoolandsatbesideBen.“Guesswhat Igot in theotherday.”

“DareIask?”Halliesaid,alreadyfeelingbetter.

Weshadabigpersonality.Hewasalwaysmakingfriendswithvisitorsto

FireflyBeach,andhewasfamousfordoinglavishthingsattherestaurant.Noone knew when they were going to happen. He’d been known to set offfireworks, give away surfboards he’d painted himself in a spontaneousrestaurantraffle,orevenoffereveryonefreedessert.

“Well, Iwas going to have the staff dress up one night…”Wes leaneddownbelowthebarandwhenhecameup,Halliesnortedwithlaughter.

Benletoutaloud“Ha!”

“Youdidn’t,”Halliesaid.“Noway.”

“Way.”WeswaswearinganenormousElviswig.

“Wheredidyougetthat?”Halliesaid,heramusementseepingthroughherwords.Shecuppedherhandoverhermouth,rememberingthenightasclearlyasifithadhappenedyesterday.

Weshad set up an impromptukaraoke stage.Hallie andBenhadhad alittletoomuchtodrink—justenoughtomakeheruncontrollablygiggly.Benhad chosen “Don’t Be Cruel,” and he was belting it out, off key, whilepretendingtoprofesshislovetoHallieonhisknee,hisarmstretchedoutasifhewerebeckoningherover.Thecrowdhadstartedtochantforhertogoonstage,butshecouldn’tstoplaughing.Apparently,theirperformancewassuchahitpeoplerequesteditthewholeweekafter.

“Online!”Westookoffthewigandputitbackunderthebar.“Ben,youletmeknowwhenyou’rereadyforanencore.Allyouhavetodoissaytheword.”

Benchuckled,andHalliecouldseetheeffectofthememoryofthatnightinhiseyes.

“Arewefeelingrumorwinethisevening,MissFlynn?”Wesasked.

“Rum,”shesaid,alittlelifebuzzinginsideheragain.

WesslidBen’sfavoritelocalbeeracrossthebarwithagrin.“I’vemissedyou two!”he said to them,grabbinga shakerand filling itwithallHallie’sfavorite ingredients. “It’sbeen too long.Maggie’soff tonightor she’dhavepulledaseatupbesideyou.She’sdyingtopickyourbrainaboutwhattoput

inthatcorneroverthere.It’stoosmallforatable,butafterwemovedthingsaround,wecan’tfigureoutwhatwouldgowellthere.”

Hallieleanedacrossthebarandgrabbedawhitepapernapkinandapen.Shemarkedoutthetwowalllinesandstudiedthem.“I’ddosomethinglikethis.”Shesketchedalittletablewithaplantthathadsomeheighttoit.ThenshedrewaframeonthewallaboveitandturnedthenapkinaroundforWestosee.

“I’llsavethisforher,”hesaid,openingtheregisterandplacingthenapkinunderthecashtray.“She’llloveit.”

HalliehadknownWesandMaggiesinceshewasakid.Alifelongdream,they’dfinallyopenedthisplacethesameyearshe’denteredhighschool,anditwasthemostpopularspotatFireflyBeach.Wesdidn’tjustmakedrinks;hebuilt creations.An artist in his off time, hewas locally famous for puttingtogetherjusttherightconcoctionstomatcheachpersonhemet.He’dlabeledHallieas“rum,coconutmilk,heavycream,pineapplejuice,andmint”whensheturnedtwenty-oneandshe’dneverdeviated.Itwasdivine.

“Whatbrings you into town?”he askedover the rattle of the ice, as heshooktheshakerbackandforth.

“UncleHank,”Halliesaid,notwantingtoletonthattherewasanymorethanthat,butawarethatheprobablyknewbetter.Thetruthwas,evenwithoutUncleHank’sissues,shehadplentyofreasonsofherowntowanttoescapetothebeautifulcoastatFireflyBeach.Shehadn’tsharedthewholeofitwithanyone,andshedefinitelywasn’tpreparedtodivulgeanythingtonight.

“How’sheholdingup?”

“Nottoowell.Ithinkheneedstogetoutofthecottage,buthishealthisfailinghim.”

Hishandsstilled.“Ifthere’sanythingIcando…”

“Thanks,Wes.”

“Ben,youdoingallright?”

Benhelduphisdrinkandnodded.“Doinggreat,thanks.How’sMaggie’s

knee?”

“Shecan’tplaytennislikeshewantsto,butit’sbeenfine.Thejoysofoldage…We’vebeengettingwalksin,though.Shelikestostrollthroughtownand have a look around in the shops. There’s a new art gallery that justopened—ownedbysomefamousphotographer.I’dneverheardofhim.”Wespointedtoaframeonthewallleadingtothediningarea:anincredibleshotofthesuncominguponthegulf,withahistoricalhomeinfront.“Igotthatatthegallery.Hedoesworkfornationalmagazines,apparently.”

Hallie got up to have a closer look. “Wow.” Itwas exactly the kind ofangleshe’dhaveused.Shelovedtomakethecornerofanobjectthecenterline of the shot—it made the photo take on a linear quality. But this wasabsolutely incredible. The background was blurred in an unusual way thatshe’d never seen before,making it resemblewatercolor, and shewonderedhowthephotographerhadachievedit.

When she walked back over to her bar stool, Ben had perked up, andHallieknewexactlywhathewasthinking.Howconvenientthattherewasaphotographer in town to help her with Aunt Clara’s request…Well, if heworkedfornationalmagazines,hewasoutofherleague.Herlow-endcamerashotswouldneverstanduptothat.

Wes pouredHallie’s drink into a large glass and topped itwith a hand-paintedpaperumbrella—hissignature.

“Letmeknowifyoutwoneedanything.I’llbeattheendofthebar.”

HalliethankedhimandthenansweredBen’squizzical look,tryingtobepositive, relishing the fizzleofhappinessWeshadprovided them. “Wecancheckoutthegallery,butlater,okay?”Shetookalongdrinkfromherglass,thesmellandtasteofsummerfillingher.“Ineedmoremomentslikethese,”shesaid,turningtoBen.“IfI’mgoingtohavetofaceallthis,I’llneedyoutohelpmebalanceitwithalittlesunshine.”

Benofferedanunderstandingnod.

“You always know how to make me feel better.” Hallie rememberedwhen,attheageoffifteen,Benhadsaidhe’dmarryheroneday.They’dhad

alongdiscussionaboutit.Hewantedtohaveabigfamilywithat least twoboyswhowerejust likehim,becausehecouldtakethemfishing.He’dalsoteasedthatthreewasagoodnumberbecausetheycouldholdtheirownasabackyardfootballteam,whichhadmadeherlaugh.He’dpromisedHalliethatas soon as they were old enough, he’d ask her, and he assured her they’dneverbreakup.Whenshequestionedhimabouthowhewassocertain,he’dsaid,“Becausewheneveryou’reupset,I’lljustmakeyoufeelbetter.”Lifehadmoved along, and their lives had gone in different directions, but they’dalwaysremainedbestfriends.Shewasgladshehadn’truinedwhattheyhadbytryingtohavearelationship.

“It’s nice being with someone who has no agenda, no pressure.” Shepeereddownatheremptyringfingeroncemore.“Jeffwasagoodfriend,youknow? And we muddled it up with dating each other,” she said, herintrospectionmakingitswayout.Benwasalwaystheretolisten,though,andshelikedtellinghimthings,soshedidn’tmind.Sheswirledthelittleumbrellainherglass, the iceclinkingagainst the sidewith themovement, and set itontothebar.

“Jeffwasn’tafriend,”Bensaid,pickingatthecornerofthelabelonhisbottle.Hesmootheditbackoutandlookedather.

“Wewent toworkfunctions togetherforayearbeforeheaskedmeout.I’dcallthatafriendship.”

Ben stared at her silently, as if her line of conversation was frustratinghim.

“Whyareyoulookingatmelikethat?”sheasked.

Weswenttothebacktogettheirdinners,leavingthemsittingtogetherattheemptybar.

“Youdidn’tnoticethatJeffwastryingtogetyoutogooutwithhimtheentireyear?Icouldseeitplainasday.”

“None of it matters anyway,” she declared, meeting Ben’s stare. Eventhroughhisslightfrustration, thoseblueeyesofhisweresocomfortingandfamiliar.“I’monlythirty.I’vegotloadsoftimetosettledown.I’mnotdating

anyoneelseforagoodwhile.”Shedarednotallowthedarkthoughtstocomeback in right now. Best to stick to the lighter reasons she and Jeff hadn’tworkedout.“HemademefeellikeIwasn’tgoodenough.HeactuallytoldmeoncethatI’mnotgrounded.Whatdoesthatevenmean?”

“Neverchangethataboutyourself,”Bensaidemphatically.

“SoyouthinkI’mnotgroundedtoo?”

“Ididn’tsaythat.”Bentippedhisbeerupandtookaswigbeforesettingitdownandreturninghisattention toHallie.“You’replentygrounded.You’rejust overly optimistic. I understand the difference because I know you sowell.”

Hallieconsidered this, butwas distracted by the grin that spread acrossBen’sface,hisearlierirritationgone.

“What?”

“For example, you actually believe you’ll win when you buy a lotteryticketandyou’regenuinelydisappointedwhenyoudon’t.”Hesharedawarmlookwith her, their common experiences from years of being side by sidegivingherlifeagain.“Ilovethataboutyou.”

In the faceofadifficultday,Benhadmadeher smile. Itwashisgift, atalentthathadbeenperfectedoveryearsofpractice.

She’doriginallyonlysoughtoutonedrink,notwantingtohavetoomuchandendupcryingonBen’sshoulderwhentheheavythoughtssetinlikesheknewtheywould,buthewasmakingherfeelsomuchbetter,remindingherofthegoodtimes.Itwasasifbeingwithhimhaderasedtheawfulthingsthathad happened—even if only for a little while—and she changed her mindaboutthatonedrink.

“Ben, I’m thinking…After dinner, let’s find a quiet spot on the beach,wherewecan talkuntilweforgetwhatdrinkwehave inourhands. Idon’twanttogobacktotheguesthouseuntilI’mrackedwithexhaustionandIcanjustfallintobedandnothavetothinkabouteverything.”

He looked thoughtful. Then, with a wink, he said, “Your wish is mycommand.”

“Myknightinshiningarmor,”sheteased.

Helaughed,hisgazelingeringonherinthatwayitdidwhentheygottotalking. She’d rattle on and on about whatever was on her mind, and justwhensherealizedshe’dbeendominatingtheconversation,she’dnoticehowhewas looking at her like hewas right now, and it always seemed like hedidn’tmindatall.

WeshandedBenthereceiptandhiscard.Bensignedtheslipofpaperandgrabbed the bags. “But dinner first! Let’s see ifwe can bring someFireflyBeachcheerfulnessbacktothecottage,shallwe?”

Shehopedtheycould.

SIX

“Ihaven’tseenHankyet,”Bensaid,ashesippedanotherbeerwhiletheysatinthesand,thewavesrushinguptotheirbarefeet.ItwaspitchblackoutsideandHalliecouldn’tgettheideaoutofhermindthatsomeonecouldbehidingdownthebeach,walkingpastherwindowtonight.Sherolledherheadonhershoulders,tryingtofeelascalmasBenlookedsittingbesideher.

“SydneysaidUncleHankwasasleepbeforewe’devenlefttogetdinner.Hehadaprettytraumaticdaywiththefall,andshedidn’twanttowakehim.”

Their plans to lift everyone’s spirits over a nicemeal had been dashed.Mama said she would have her dinner later. After spending the afternooncalling the local police department and then speaking to a few home-alarmcompaniestogetinstallationquotes,shedidn’thavemuchofanappetite.SoSydneyandRobbyatewithBenandHallie,andthefourofthemspentmostofthemealtalkingaboutfixingtheoldtreeswingforRobby.BentoldRobbyhe’dworkonittomorrow.

They’deatenratherquickly,andafterwards,SydneyhadthoughtitbestifsheandRobbylockedupandstayedinside,sothey’doptedtowatchamovie,butBen insisted on takingHallie to the beach, since she’d askedhim to atWesandMaggie’s.They’dstoppedoffat theguesthouseandgrabbedafewthings.Inaflash,Benfilledhiscoolerwithice,bottledbeer,andtherestofthewinetobringwiththem,Halliefollowinghiminsidesinceshewasalittlespooked by the trespasser that Uncle Hank had said he’d seen. Then theywentdowntothewater.

The starswere like diamonds in the inky sky asHallie lay back on the

quilt Ben had set out for them, causing Beau to shift positions. The dogsniffedheremptywinebottleandthenstretchedoutalongtheblanket.

“IhopeUncleHankisinbetterspiritstomorrow.I’mreallyworriedabouthim.”

Beauletoutasnortandmoved,curlingupnexttothem.Thedog’ssuddenchange inpositioncausedHallie to jump,her sensesonhighalert, butBenhadassuredherthathecouldflailaroundandmakeitlooklikeheknewju-jitsu—itwasagreatpartytrickhe’dlearned—andhe’dscareoffanyonewhocameintoview.Hallieresolvedthatsheneededmorewine,butBenlaydownnexttoherandtwistedtofacehersoshestayedput.

Hallielookedhimintheeyes.

“You’retense,”hesaid.

Shenodded.

“Seeing your uncle struggling has to be tough when you’re alreadydealingwithyourowngrief.”

Grief.Thatwordhadsomanydimensionsforher.“Maybeyoucanworkyour magic and make Uncle Hank smile,” she said, giving him her totalattention,losingherselfinhisface,inanefforttorelax.

“Ah,Idon’thaveanymagic,”Bensaid,turninghisfacetowardthestars.“IwishIdid.”

Therewasanunusualvulnerability inhisvoicejust thenthatHalliehadneverheardbefore.WhatshelovedsomuchaboutBenwasthefactthathealwaysseemedtohaveeverythingundercontrol.Itcenteredherandgaveherasenseofsafetyshecouldn’tgetwithanyoneelse.Sohisslightfaltercaughtherattention.

“Youokay?”sheasked.

“Yeah,I’mfine,”hesaid,histoneliftingjustalittle.

Hallierolledoverandproppedherchinuponherhands,wonderingwhatcouldpossiblybebotheringhim.Somethingclearlywas.“Everythingallrightwithwork?”

“Yeah.”

“Ashley?”

Bensmiled,puttingheratease.“Ashley’s justfine.You’reworryingfornoreason.Standing,hereacheddownforherhands,pullingherupwithhim.“We’resupposedtobeforgettingabouteverythingtonight,remember?Timetomakeyoulaughagain.”Withoutwarning,hescoopedHallieintohisarms.Then,outofnowhere,hestartedtowardthewaves,swingingherasifheweregoingtotossherin.

Beaujumpedtohisfeet,lettingoutaplayfulbark.

“Ben!Putmedown!I’vegotmyfavoriteshirton—it’sgonnagetwet!”

Hepretendedtothrowher,makinghersquealwhileshetriedtogetfree,Beaurunningintothecrashingwavesandthenbackupontothesand.Justasthe tide rushed in, Ben set her down, the saltywaterwashing around theirankles,playinggameswithherbalance.Sheheldontohimtokeepsteady.Inthatmoment,withBenholdingher,thefamiliarscentofhoneysuckleandsalt,and the tiny flashes from the fewfireflies thathademerged,Hallie felt likeheryoungerself.Ifonlyshecouldunlearnthethingsthatshenowknewtobetrue,ifonlytheycouldgobacktothetimeswheretheiricecreamflavorwasthebiggestdecisiontheyhadthatday…

“Thank you for tonight,” she said. “Being with you makes everythingbetter.Idon’tknowhowyoudoit…”

Bengrinnedandshookhishead,clearlyalittlebaffledhimselfathowhecouldmakehersmilesoeasily.

Anotherwavecrashedaroundthemandsheheldontohimmoretightly.“Actually,Idoknowhowyoudoit.It’sjustyoubeingyou.”

Hisgazelingeredonher face,nearlyswallowingher,as ifhewanted tosay something.He licked his lips ever so subtly, and she foundher fingersintertwinedwithhis.Allher fearsandsorrowsslidout toseawith the tide,andthewarmthofhistouchmadeherfeellikeeverythingwouldworkout.Astheystoodthere,therushofwindstrugglingtogetbetweenthem,hepressedhis lips together likehewanted to tell her something important. Shewilled

himtosayit,buthedidn’t.

“This looks fun,” Sydney said, walking over the dune. “Much betteratmosphere than in the house.” She reached down to patBeau’s side as hegreetedher,hiswagging tail rippling theblankethewas sittingon. “Robbyfellasleepbeforethemovieevengotstarted,soIlockedupandcameouttofindyou.”TheringofkeysforthepropertydangledfromSydney’sfinger.“Ineedabreak,”shesaid,herhonestyevidentinhertone.“I’mexhaustedtoo,except if I try to sleep…” Sydney shook her head, but her thought wasderailed, something sheeting over her face as she noticedBen andHallie’shands.Sydney shareda silentmomentwithBen, anodd lookonboth theirfaces,beforeBenletgoofHallieandturnedtowardthewater.

Snappingoutofwhatever itwas,Sydney lifted the lidof thecoolerandsunk her hands into the ice. “Anything left in here? I need a drink.” Shepulledoutabottleofbeerandtwistedoffthecap.Whiletippingituptoherlips,sheshutthecooler,droppedthelargekeyringontop,andslumpeddownontotheblanket,crossingherlegs.

HallieturnedtoBenforanexplanationbuthehadhisbacktoher,lookingoutoverthewater.

“What are the others doing inside?” Hallie asked, her curiosity stillhangingintheair.ShesatdownnexttoSydneyandtookthebeeroutofhersister’shands,drinkingfromthebottleandthenhandingitback.

“They’reallasleepnow.Mamagotupforawhileandrushedaroundthehouse,tryingtocleanupforUncleHank,butIthinksheworeherselfoutandshe turned in for the night. I spentmost of the timewithRobby, trying toentertainhim.”

“I’llget thatswingupforhimtomorrow,”Bensaid, turningaround.HegrabbedBeau’sballfrombesidetheblanketandchuckeditdownthebeach,themoonlight illuminating the yellow enough to see it splash into the surf.Beaugallopedthroughthesandafterit.

“Thanks,Ben.Ithinkhe’llreallylikethat.”

Beaureturned,droppingtheballatBen’sfeet,histonguehangingoutthe

sideofhismouthashepantedinheavingbreaths,histailswishingbackandforth incessantly.Benthrewtheballagainandoffhewent,kickingupsandbehindhim.

“Y’all want anything else from the cooler before I take it up to theguesthouse?” he asked. “I think I’m heading back.” He gave Hallie afluttering glance, making her wonder what had caused the change inatmosphere. Justmoments ago, he looked like he had theworld to tell her,andnowhewasleavingthem.

“Stay,”Hallieurgedhim,grabbingonemorebeer.

“I’mbeat,”hesaidwithanupliftinglook.“Andyouandyoursistercouldprobablyusethetimetotalk.”Heopenedthecoolerandsetarowofbeersinthesand.

“Maybeshecanhelpme figureouthow tocompleteAuntClara’s list.”Hallienudgedhersisterplayfully,tryingtokeepthingslight.

Ben grinned and then whistled for Beau, who’d been distracted bysomethingontheedgeoftheseagrass.Beauracedtowardhim.“I’llbeupattheguesthouse,Hallie,”hesaid.“Seeyouinabit.”

HallieandSydneylayontheblanket,theirfacestothestars,theswishofthegulfwaves lullingHallieandquieting theremnantsofher thoughts,alreadyhazyfromthebeer.She’dforgottenallaboutthethingsthatwereweighingonher,orthefactthatsomeonecouldbelurkingontheproperty.

“IkeepthinkingabouthowAuntClarausedtomakeuspicnicbreakfastsouthere,”Sydneysaid.Herkneeswerebent,andshewaswrigglinghertoesand kicking up sand onto Hallie’s ankles. The gentle sensation of it wasrelaxing.

“I’d hardly call them picnics.”Hallie laughed through herwords. “ShemadeUncleHankput theoldporch tableandchairs in thesandforus,andshe had full-on serving dishes and tablecloths.” Thememory settled like alightfeatherinhermind—gentleandsoft.“Itmademefeellikeaprincess.”

“Metoo.Shebakedcookiesjustforusandletuseatthematthecrackofdawn, remember? Imiss that.” Sydney rolled onto her side. “Imade sugarsnaps for Robby last week and gave them to him for breakfast, but I justcouldn’tpullitofflikeAuntClara.Shemadeeverythingseemdreamlike.”

“Speaking of dreams!” Hallie laughed before she could even share thememory.“WereyouawakethatnightIhadthereallybadnightmareandAuntClaramadeMonsterDust?”

Sydneysmirked.“No.Whathappened?”

“Ithinkyouweresleepinginthesewingroom…Iwasprobablysixyearsold. I had a bad dream in themiddle of the night, andAuntClaramade aplaceformetosleepwithallkindsofpillowsandblanketsonthefloorbyherbed.ThenshesprinkledMonsterDustallovertheroom.Ithinkitmusthavebeenglitter.Itworked,andIgottosleep,butthenextmorning,UncleHankdroppedhisweddingring—remember,healwaystookitofftosleep—anditrolledawayfromhim.Helookedeverywhere,crouchingdown,peeringunderfurniture.Hefounditeventually,butitwokemeupandInearlyscreamedatfirst,thinkinghewasthemonsterbecausehewascoveredinglitter!Itwasonhischeek,inhishair…”Hallieburstoutlaughing,savoringthefeelingofit.“He’dbeenalloverthefloorlookingforhisring,pickingupthatglitterashewent.WhenIstartedtogiggle,hecouldn’tfigureoutwhatwassofunny,buthisfacelookedlikeagiantdiscoball.”

Sydneylaughedoutloud.

“AuntClaracouldn’tgetitoffhim.Evenafterhehadhisshowerthatday,westillfoundlittleshimmersonhisskin.”

Hallie andSydneyboth continuedchucklinguntil the silence tookover,andtheysettledintoaquietcalm.Theyhadn’ttalkedaboutanythingofrealimportance since Ben had gone in, both of them reminiscing and clearlytryingtofindarespitefor theday’sevents.But,evenunder thespellof thenightandthealcohol,somethingelsehadbeenbuggingHallie.She’dpusheditoutofhermind thiswhole time,but itkept surfacing, so she figured sheshouldask.

“Syd?I’vebeenwonderingwhatthatlookwasthatyouandBenhad?”

“Whatlook?”Sydneykepthereyestothestars.

“Whenyoufirstcameout.Therewasalook.”

“Idon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout…”Sydneyfoldedherhandsandputthembehindherhead.

“Youdidn’tdenyit.You’rejustplayingdumbthewayyoudowhenyoudon’twanttotellmesomething.”

Hersistertookinalargebreathandletitout.“Ithinkwewerebothjust…Trying to make sure that you don’t fall apart, as you say. I’m sure youprobablycouldwithallthisgoingon.YouweretheclosestwithAuntClara.Andit’sallcomingontheheelsoftheJeffsituation.”

Halliedidn’tbelievehersister’sresponseentirely,butwithheremotionssurfacingagainat thementionofAuntClaraandJeff, she’dalreadymovedon fromwhateverBen andSydney had been communicating to each other.Despitehergriefoverthingsshehadn’tevenuttered,theideaofthelistwasbotheringhermorethanshe’dleton.Halliecouldn’tfightthenigglingfeelingthat Aunt Clara didn’t feel like she deserved her inheritance, that Halliesomehowneededtoworkforit.PerhapsitwasjustbecauseHalliedidn’tfeelterriblysecurewithherdecisionslately.Shefeltprettyinadequateaboutmostthingsatthemoment.

“Whatareyouthinkingabout?”Sydneyasked.

Hallie deliberated. “I…” She started to let out her secret, the alcoholgivingher courage, thewordsbubblingupmoreeasily thanusual,but thenshestoppedshort.Shecouldn’tdoit.

Sydneyturnedtoheartherestofthesentence.

“I… did the right thing, calling off the wedding,” she said instead,choosingtomentiontheeasieroneofherburdens.Itcameoutasifshewerestilltryingtoconvinceherself.Thetruthwas,sheknewshe’dbeenright.Shedidn’tmissJeff,justthesecurityofarelationship,soherdecisionhadtobethecorrectone.

“Of course you did. Take it from me, you don’t want to have to gothroughallthatafterthewedding.It’ssomuchharder.”

Sydneyhadnoidea…“Ibelievewe’recursed.”TheFlynnwomencouldnever seem to find that happiness that lasted a lifetime.Not a singleFlynnsinceAuntClarahadmanagedit.

“Maybe.”

“YouneverreallytalkedaboutthedayChristianwalkedout.”

“There’snothing to say, really.He’d found someoneelse—whatcould Ido?”Sydney satup,wrappingher armsaroundherknees. “And I think thepurposeofitallwastogivemeRobby.”

Robby was Sydney’s whole world, the last remnant of the life she’dworked sohard forwhichhadcomecrashingdownaroundher a fewyearsago when Robby’s father Christian had left. Just like that. Sydney andChristianhadknowneachother sincehis familyhadmoveddown the roadfromthemwhenhewasfifteen.They’dbeenreallyclosefriendsuntilheandSydneyhadgoneofftocollege.They’dlost touchforafewyears,butaftergraduation found each other again, and they’d fallen quickly in love. Theyweremarried a year after returning home, their degrees in hand. But theirmarriagewas short, and out of nowhereChristian had disappeared, leavingSydney’slife—andheart—shattered.

TheonethingaboutSydneywasthatshedidn’toftenshareherfeelings,evenwhenHalliewishedshewould.Halliewasalways right there,waitingfor the moment when Sydney would finally let down that protective wallshe’dputuparoundherself.Butnow,withthekindofcontemplationsHalliewasholdingonto,sheunderstoodalittle.

“Ineveraskedbecause Ididn’twant toupsetyou,but for some reason,everythingwithAuntClarahasputthingsintoperspectiveforme.IfeellikeIshould knowwhat youwent through—as your sister.” Perhaps if she heardSydney’sdeepestfeelings,itwouldgiveherthestrengthtodivulgeherown.

“Ihaven’ttalkedaboutittoanyone.Itwastoohard.”

“Can you tell me now?What happened the night that he left?” Hallieurgedher.

Sydney’seyesdroppedtotheblanket.Andthen,suddenly,shestartedto

talk.“Icouldtellthemomenthegottothedoor.”Sheranherhandsoverherarms,anditlookedasthoughshecouldstillfeeltheemptinesscausedbythatmoment.“Somethinghadshiftedinhisface,somethingwasn’tright—Icouldtell.HehadalookI’dneverseenbefore.Hewasdistant.AndIimmediatelystarted to shake all over—like my body already knew and began to reactbeforemybrain.”

The tiny line that formed between her eyes when she cried started toshow,andHalliereachedoutandgrabbedherhand.

“Hecamein,butsaidhecouldn’tstay,andthatwaswhenIknewforsure.Hedidn’thave tosayanythingelse.Ourwholerelationshipflipped throughmy mind like a deck of cards, and I scrambled for any reason that thiscould’ve happened, but I cameup empty.All I asked himwas, ‘Why?’Hebrokeeyecontactthen,andhisvoicewasoddlysoft,likehewastryingnottoupset me further. And then he told me he’d found someone else.” Sydneyblinkedawaytears,thepainstillverypresenteventhreeyearslater.

“You can’t prepare for something like that,” Hallie said, clutching hersister’shand.

Sydney turned towardher. “In an instant, things can change.Ourworldcanchange.Wehavetobesocarefulwithourchoices,youknow?”

“Yeah.”Now,morethanever,sheunderstoodhowimportantherchoiceswere.Hallieopenedhermouthtoletoutthisterriblethingshewashiding,butshedidn’thavethecourage.“Whoneedsguyswhenwehaveeachother,”shesaid,holdingoutherarmstohersister.

Sydneyembracedher,andthetwoofthemheldontooneanother.Sydneysqueezedher tightly insolidarity.“Nothingcaneverchangebetweenus.Sowedon’tneedthem,”Sydneysaid.“Plus,you’rewaycleanerthanChristianwas.I’dmuchratherlivewithyou.”

Hallielaughed.“Let’sjustliveoutourdaysasthetwooldFlynnwomen:men-lessbutdarnclean.”

“ThatsoundslikethebestplanI’veheard.”

Thensomethingrustledintheseagrass,makingthembothnervous.

Sydneygrabbedthekeyringandstoodup,lookingaround.“Whatarewestilldoingouthere?Weshouldgetinside.”

Halliewadded theblanket andkicked thebottles far enough toward thehouse that theywouldn’twashaway.She’dget themin themorning.“Let’sgo.”She linkedherarmwithSydney, theway theyused todoasgirls,andtogether,theyheadeduptothepathleadingtothehouse.

SEVEN

“Whatchadoing?”Bensaid thenextmorning,hisbare feet sinking into thesand as he neared Hallie on the beach, holding two cups of coffee as hestoppednexttothepiledemptybeerbottlesfromlastnight.Heliftedoneofherplasticbucketsjustslightlywithhisfoot,andinspectedit.

“I’mtryingtomakeasandcastle—thefirstitemonAuntClara’slist.”Shedippedherhands intooneof thebucketsshe’dfilledwithwater,andpattedthesmalllumpofsand.

Beauranpastthemafteraseagull.

Thegulfwastranslucentthismorning,thewhitesandstretchingendlesslyunderthewaterasitlappedquietlyontotheshore,itssoundthehymnoftheirchildhood.Maybeitwasthefactthatshe’dfinallyhadarestfulnight’ssleep,or perhaps it was having Ben around after so long without him, but thismorning, as the sunshinehither face through thewindow,Halliehad felt alittlemore likeherself.She lay inbed andmade apromise to focuson thepresent, right now, not the past.None of the bad things that had happenedcouldbechanged.Therewasnothinglefttodobutmoveforward.

Benyawned,andonlythendidshenoticethathishairlookeduntouched.HisT-shirtwaswrinkled,presumablyfromthenight’ssleep.He’dbeenunderhisblanketsonthepulloutsofawhenshe’dcomeinfromthebeachlastnight,andshe’dmadeherwaytothebedroomthroughthedark.Beauhadgreetedherand then resumedhispostat theendof the sofa.She’d fallen intobed,losing her battle with consciousness without a moment to consider herthoughts,whichhadn’thappenedinalongtime.

Ben set one of the mugs in the sand next to her. “Glad to see you’retrying.”Hegaveherasupportivenod.Perhapshecouldsenseherchangeinmood.

AuntClarahadalwayslikedBen.Itwasasifthetwoofthemexistedonthe sameplane of consciousness sometimes.WhenHallie faced challenges,Benwouldgivehisadvice,andthenifHalliesharedthesamequestionswithAuntClara,she’dofferacarboncopyofwhatBenhadtoldher.HalliewishedhecoulddecipherAuntClara’smotivationforallthis.

Sherinsedthesandoffherhandsandpickedupthecoffee,takinginthewarm liquid. She’d risen with the sun this morning, the conversation withSydneyrunningthroughhermind.Shewasgoingtobeintentionalaboutherchoicesfromhereonout.

“I thinkwhat you toldmeon thewayhere is right,” she said. “IfAuntClarawantsmetodothethingsonthelist,therehastobesomereason.Ijustcan’tseeityet.”

“That’smygirl.”

She inhaled the earthy, nutty smell of the coffee andpeeredover at thesmall lumpof sandbesideher.She’dbeen trying forquiteawhileandstillhadnoideahowUncleHankcouldgetthesandtopackdownlikehehad.

“I’mnotdoingverywell,though,”sheadmitted.

“Ithinkyouruncleneedstoshowyou.”Benloweredhimselfdownnexttoher,hiseyesasvibrantasthewater.

Halliecaughtthefamiliarscentofhimonthebreeze,anditwasasdown-homeasAuntClara’scherrycobbler.She’dmissedthis.

“Idon’tthinkUncleHankisinanyshapetobuildasandcastle.”

Ben frowned sympathetically. “Have you been up to the house yet thismorning?”

She shook her head. “I needed some time to get myself together first.Sydneytextedthatbreakfastwillbereadyataroundeight,andforustocomeoverthen.Whattimeisitnow?”

“It was seven thirty when I came out, so I guess I should jump in theshower.Icanbereadyinten.”

“I’llcleanupmymesshereandjoinyouforbreakfast.”

Halliepickedupthebuckets,stackingthemunsteadilyandfillingthetoponewiththeemptybottlesassheheldontohercoffeewithherotherhand.Benreacheddownandpickedupthelastpailforher,dumpingthewaterontothesand.

“I’vegotit,”shesaid.“GogetreadyandI’lltakecareofallthis.”

“Hello.”AtentativevoicecamefrombehindHallieasshewashedoutthelastbucketwith thehoseby theporch,startlingher, theremainingcoffee inhermugsloshingdarkbrownliquidontothewhitesidingbeforesheclutchedittoherchest.

ShewhirledaroundtofindGavin.This timehewasn’tcoveredinpaint,but spruced up and clean-shaven, and without the fear that he was atrespasser,shecouldactuallypayattention.Sherealizedjustthenthathewasratherhandsome.Hisdarkbrownhairfellacrosshisforeheadjustalittle,thetanonhisfaceshowingoffthosegreeneyesframedbytinylaughlinesthatmadehimseemfriendlybeforehe’devenspoken.

“Ikeepmakingyoujump,”hesaidwithanapologeticsmile.“AmIthatscary?”

She laughed softly. “No. I’m just generally on edge.” She took in hiscasual but neat clothes—not a single blue smear on them. “No paintingtoday?”

“Notuntillater.Youruncleletsmecomedownandusehisbeach.IlivejustoutsideoftownandyouknowhowtheFireflyBeachpublicaccessis—sobusy.”

Thankfully,Halliehadneverhadtouseit,butsherememberedhowhecticthesmallpublicbeachcouldgetinthesummermonths.SheandAuntClarahad waited for droves of vacationers to lug their beach umbrellas, chairs,

towels,androllingcartsofbeachtoysoverthecrosswalk,theonlystoplightinthetownturninggreenandthenyellowandredoveragain,nooneabletomove,untilastreamofcarssnakeddowntheroadbehindthem.“Yes,Istayawayatallcosts.”

Hegrinned,puttinghishandsinhispockets.“Ilikethelightouthereinthe mornings. And if you can catch a glimpse of them, there’s a pod ofdolphins thatplay in this area.They’re so lighthearted,bumpingeachotherandjumpingoutofthewater.It’samazingtowatch.”

“I know those dolphins! I’ve seen them.” Until he mentioned it, she’dforgottenaboutthem.Ithadbeenalongtimesinceshe’dsatonthebeachtoobservethem,withoutacareintheworld.

“Were youmaking a sandcastle?” He pointed to the lump of wet sanddownthebeach.

“Trying.” She stacked the buckets next to the house and sprayed thecoffee off the siding, then wrapped the hose around its holder, freeing herhands.

“I couldnevermake themeither…”He stopped talkingand tooka stepclosertoher,intoherpersonalspace.

Shelookedupathim,surprised.

Gavin’s chest filledwith air and she thought hewas about to speakbutthendidn’t,andhesmiledinstead.

“Wereyougoingtotellmesomething?”sheasked.

For a second he seemed stunned that she could read him, but it onlyintensifiedtheinterestinhiseyes.“Ithoughtaboutaskingyou…butIdidn’twanttoseemforward,andthenIranintoyounowand…”Helookedoutatthewaterandbackather.Thenhejustspatitout:“Iwaswonderingifyou’dliketogetadrinksometime.”

Her eyebrows shot up. “Oh! You’re askingme out?” His flirting gamewasclearlyrusty,butshedidn’tmind.Halliewasn’texactlygreatatitherself.

Gavinletoutanervouschuckle.“Well, Iwasattemptingto.Verybadly.

I’m not good at this sort of thing, but after meeting you yesterday, I justthought that if I wanted to ask someone to get a drink then it would besomeonelikeyou.Youseemed…nice.”

“Isthatyourline?”shesaid,feelingheatinhercheeks.Hishonesty,whilebumpyinitsdelivery,wasactuallyquitesweet.

“No,”hesaid,lookingabitembarrassed.“Believeme.Ihavenolines.”

Gavin’s timingcouldn’thavebeenworse. Itwas just toosoonafter Jeffandwhatshewasdealingwith.AndthentherewasUncleHankandtryingtogetAuntClara’swishestakencareof…

“It’sokay,”hesaidquickly,hisfacefallingintoagentlesmilethatdidn’tquitehidehisdisappointment.“Ijustthought…”

“It’snotyou,”shesaid.“I’mnotinadatingkindofplacerightnow.”

“Well,wecouldgetadrinkasfriendsthen.”

Yes.Friendswasgood.She’dpromisedherselfnever todateafriendsohe’d beway off limits, and it couldn’t hurt to have another friend. “I’d behappytogetadrinkasfriends.”

“Okay,”hesaid,excitementswellinginhisfeatures.“I’llpickyouupatseveno’clocktomorrownight.”

“Ilookforwardtoit.Now,Ihavetogetinsideforbreakfast.Myfamily’sprobablywaitingonme.”Shepickedupthesandcastlebuckets,snaggingthehandleofthecoffeemugwithherlastfreefinger.

“Will you tell your uncle that I’m here?” Gavin asked. “He and I hadgottentotalkingtheotherday,andhementionedthathewaslookingforhisbucktaillure.Hecouldn’tlocateit,whichisarealshamesinceit’soneofthemostproductivefishingluresonthemarket.Ifoundhimanotherone.Maybeyoucanconvincehimtoletmehelphimouttotheshoreatsomepointtouseit.”

“IhopeIcan,”shesaid,movedbyGavin’sgenerosity.Thiswentbeyondhispaintingduties.“I’lltellhim.”

ThekitchenwasbustlingwhenHallieentered.Baconsnapped in the fryingpan on the stove, Sydney buzzed around Robby, buttering his biscuit—theflaky,hand-rolled lookof themmakingHalliewonderhowlonghermotherhadbeenupthismorning—andMamawaswhiskingeggsinabowllikeherlifedependedon it.UncleHank sat quietly at the endof the table.Hewasstaringoutthewindow.

ThespectacleinfrontofHalliewasafarcryfromthedayswhenUncleHank played piano while Aunt Clara cooked, or the late afternoons whenearly supper was nearly ready, and he lingered around the counter tellingjokesjustsohecoulddiphisfingerinthecookiebatter,AuntClaraswattinghis hand awaywith a loving scold. Seeing him now, it was clear that thatversionofUncleHankhadleftwithAuntClara.Hallie’sauntwasnoticeablyabsent,themelodyofherhummingsilenced,theairthicker,heavierwithouther.Benwalkedupbehindher.UncleHankdidn’tevenseemtonoticethey’dcomein.

Halliedidn’tmove.Shewantedtoturnaroundandwalkrightbackoutthedoor, forgettingallabout therenewedsenseofdutyshe’dfelt thismorning.Her appetite was suddenly nonexistent, anguish crawling up her face andprickingher eyes.As ifBencoulddecipherherbody language, she felthisprotectivehandssupportivelysettleonhershoulders,thesteadyriseandfallofhischestatherback.

“Can we help with anything?” he asked, to no one in particular. He’dcomfortanyofthemifhecould.

Mama’sheadwhippedupfromherbowlandsheblinkedrapidly,asifsheneeded help understanding for a second. “We’re just fine, dear,” she said,whiskingharder.“GoonandhaveaseatandI’llbringittothetable.”

Benwalkedoverandpulledoutachair,motioningforHallietosit.ThenheputhisarmaroundUncleHank.“Howyadoin’?”heasked.

Uncle Hank finally acknowledged Ben, his eyebrows rising in silentcontemplation.Heshrugged,buthisattentionremainedonBeninsteadoftheviewoutthewindow.

Ben sank into the chair next to him, between Uncle Hank and Robby.

“Afterbreakfast,IwasgoingtohangtheoldswingbackupforRobby.”Heheld up his fist and Robby gave him a fist bump. “Pow,” they both said,openingtheirfingers.ThenheturnedbacktoUncleHank.“I’llputachairoutthereifyou’dliketoguideme.Iknowit’sbeenawhilesinceyouhungit,butmaybeyoucanteachmehowtodotheknotsintheropelikeyoudo.”

“Youneeddoublerunningbowlineknots,”UncleHankreturned,hisvoicegruff. Itmust havebeen the first thinghe’d said allmorning, because bothSydneyandMamastoppedandlookedathimbeforeglancingateachother.

“Iknewyoustillhaditinya.I’llgetthatchairoutforyou,”Bensaidwithasmile.“Howhigharewegoingtoswing,Robby?”

“Ashighaswecan!”

“That’sgoingtobeprettyhigh.UncleHank’sswingisreallyfast.Thinkyoucanhandleit?”

“Yes,”Robbysaid,excited.

UncleHank’sexpressionsoftenedjustalittle.

Mama set a plate of bacon down. “How many pieces would you like,UncleHank?”

“Ireckontwoorthree,”hesaid,hiswordssurfacingalittlequickernow.“Where’s that old dog of yours, Ben?” The question came out cautiously,almostasifhewasafraidtothinkaboutanythingotherthanhiscurrentstate,likehewastestinghisownwaterstoseeifhecouldexistintheregularworldagain.

It was a surprising change in mood, but then again, that was whathappenedwhenBenwasaround.JustasHalliehadnoticedBen’ssimilaritytoAuntClaraintemperamentandopinionsovertheyears,sohadUncleHank,andthetwoofthemhadbecomefastfriends.They’dchangedtheoilinUncleHank’s old farm truck together, fished off the dock most Sundays, and ofcourseinthefalltherewasfootball.

“Beau’sintheguesthouse.”

Uncle Hank grunted and scooped an overflowing serving spoon full of

eggs, dropping themonto his plate. “Better leave a piece of bacon for himthen.”

Bengrinned.

UncleHank’sattentionmovedtotheemptychairwhereAuntClarausedto sit and have her coffee everymorning, and all the noise fell silent for amoment.

“Robby,whatwould you like to do today other than swinging?”Mamaasked,forcingasmile.“Wecouldgointotownandgetsomeicecream.”Shetousledhishair.

By the lookonRobby’s face,hecouldsensesomethingwasamisswiththe situation, his eyes now unsure.His gazemoved around the table as heshiftedupontohisknees.“MaybewecouldtakeUncleHankwithustogeticecream.”

UncleHanktorehiseyesawayfromAuntClara’schair.

“Whatkindoficecreamdoyoulike,UncleHank?”Robbyasked.

“Oh,Idon’tknow,son.Ilikealotofflavors.IsupposeifIhadtochoose,though,itwouldbechocolate.”

“Everywherehaschocolate,soyoushouldcomewithus.”

Benpipedup,“Weshouldallgo.Robby,youand Icanhang theswingandthenmaybegofishing.Bythen,you’llbereadyforsomeicecream.”

“Fishing?”Robby’sfacelitup.

“Yeah.Theladiescandolady-stuffandyou,UncleHank,andIcanfish.”

Hallie thought it might be a good time to mention the lure Gavin hadgottenforUncleHank,whichmightlifthisspiritsabit,butbeforeshecould,hecutin.

“Allthatsoundsexhausting,”UncleHanksaid,hisfocusreturningtothechair.Hefilledhisforkwitheggsandtookabite.Whenhe’dfinishedhesaid,“Jacquelineistakingmetoseethedoctor,andafterthat,IthinkI’lljuststayinmyroom.”

“Igothimanappointmentatone,”Mamasaid.SheturnedtoUncleHank.“Butwe’llberightbackafter,andthefreshairwilldoyousomegood.Whydon’tyouhelpBen?”

“No,”UncleHanksnapped.

Benlookedthoughtful.“I’llatleastbringBeauovertogethisbacon,”hesaid.“He’dbehappytoseeyou.Andheneedsagoodwalkanyway.”

UncleHankdidn’targue.

“Mama toldme that thepolicedepartment is going topatrol themain roadleading to thehouse,”Sydneysaid toHallieas the twoof themsat sidebysideinrockingchairsontheexpansiveporchthatstretchedalongthebackofStarlightCottage,overlookingthegulf.Theunceasingcoastalbreezesentthepaddlesoftheporchfansabovetheminsoftcircles.

WithUncleHank retreating to his room after breakfast,Ben decided togivehimsometimebeforetheyhungtheswing,andhe’denticedRobbytogofishingfirst.RobbyseemedhappytodoanythingwithBen,andthey’dbeenoutthereontheshoretogethertherestofthemorning.

“I don’t know how policing the roadwill help,” Sydney added, “if theguy’sonfoot.”

“FromwhatUncleHanktoldMama,”Halliesaid,“it’salwaysasilhouetteofaman,andhewalkswitha leisurelypaceuntilhe’sseen.Buthedoesn’trun.Hejusthides.That’screepy.”Hallielookeddownthebeachattheemptyshoreline. “We haven’t had any evidence of an intruder since we’ve beenhere.Doyouthinkhe’sreal?OrisUncleHankimaginingthings?”

Sydneyshrugged,clearlyworried.“TheofficerwhospokewithMamadidsayit’spossiblethatsomeonecouldbeparkingonthemainroadandwalkingin. They found some footprints near the property line, but that could beanyone.I’mnotsosure.Peoplewouldnoticehiscar.”

“Ifheisreal,whatdoyouthinkhewants?”

Sydney pressed her toes against the floorboards of the porch to rock

backwards.“Ihavenoidea.Everythingofanyvalueisinthesafe,andonlyUncleHankknowsthecombination.”

Halliewonderediftheprowlerwassomeonewantingtogetalookattheproperty.Atleastshehopedthatwaswhatitwas.Becauseanyotherreasonwouldmakeherfreezewithfear.“I’msogladBen’shere,”shesaid.Shefeltprotectedwhenhewasaround.

Sydneydidn’tsayanything,thesilencebetweenthempalpablesuddenly.ItwasenoughtomakeHalliepullhereyesfromBenandRobbytolookathersister.

“Whatwillwedo,Hallie?”Sydneyasked,herquestionnotclearingthingsupverymuch.

HalliewaitedforSydneytohelpherunderstand.

“Ben.” Sydney nodded toward the water, where Ben and Robby stoodtogetherwiththeirfishingpoles,Benpatientlyshowinghimhowtocasthisrod.

“Oneday,Ben’sgoingtohavehisownfamilyandwe’regoingtohavetolethimgo.”

Sydney’s comment stung Hallie. She sat there for a second, trying toimagine life without her best friend. Fear slithered through her and shestruggledtomaintainhercomposure—justthethoughtmadeherwanttocry,given her state. An indescribable feeling came over her, but she couldn’tfigureoutwhatitwas.Incomprehension?“Whatdoyoumean?”

“Iworryaboutyou.”

Halliestaredathersister,unabletosayanything.

“Youleanonhimalot.Ithinkitcouldbeunhealthyforyou,that’sall.”

IfSydneyonlyknewthatBenwasthehealthiestthingforHallie’smentalstate.Hewastheonlyonewhocouldreachher,theonlyonewhocouldmakeall thepainleavehermind.Andshecouldn’tbelieveshe’dwastedsomuchtimeaway fromhimwhenshewaswithJeff.“It’sunhealthy tohaveabestfriend?”

“WhatifheweretochoosetospendtimewithAshleywhenyouneededhim?Couldyouhandle that?”Sydney ranher fingersalong thearmrestsoftherockerasifsheneededsomethingtodowithherhands,anditoccurredtoHalliethatshemayhavebeenthinkingthisforsometime.Shehadn’treliedonBenthroughtheworstofthelastfewmonths,andlookatwherethatgother.Buttheminutetheyweretogetheragain,theywerenearlyinseparable.

Benhadalwaysbeensuchaconstant inHallie’s lifethat ithadn’treallyoccurred to her that she might be monopolizing his time. At some point,Ashley may have a problem with it, and one day he might stop comingaround. Then she considered how Ben had become mysteriously absentduringherengagementtoJeff.Hadhebeengivingherspace?

SydneywatchedBenandRobbyforquiteawhileand thensaid,“I fearRobbywill be just as heartbrokenwhenBen leaves us.He’s the only solidmaleinfluenceinRobby’slife.Howwillwecopewithouthimwhenhestartshisownfamily?”

Every timeSydney said theword “family,” it slicedHallie like a knife.ThedaywouldcertainlycomewhenBenwouldhaveawifeandchildrenofhisown,andHalliedidn’tevenwanttothinkaboutthatforfearthatitmightripherheartout.“You’regettingaheadofyourself.”Halliestoppedrockingandturnedtowardhersister.“Youactlikehe’swalkingdowntheaisle.”

“Mamasaidwhenshewasat thejewelryshopgettingherwatchfixedafewweeksago,sheranintoAshley.Shefoundherattheringcounter…Whatifit’scloserthanyouthink?”

Apartfromthelastfourmonths,Benhadalwaysbeenthereforher.Andnow,assheponderedtheideaofBenenteringintoacommittedrelationship,anunexpectedfeelingof insecurityanduneaseslinkedthroughher.“You’rejustspeculating.”

“I am. But he’s a handsome, caring, thoughtfulman.You said yourselfthatAshleywas a great person.You really liked her.” Sydney took a bandfromherwristandpulledherhairintoaponytailtoallowthebreezetocoolherneck.“Iguess,ontheheelsofourlasttalkaboutchoices,I justwanttomake sure thatyouhaveacleardistinctionofwhat the twoofyouare. It’s

important.Whileyou’recomfortablespendingallkindsoftimetogetherandbeing affectionate toward one another like you’ve always been, the peopleyoubothdatemightnotbe.”

“We have a family-like affection for one another,” she said, feelingdefensive, put off by the whole conversation. “Being loving toward himwouldn’t beweird if heweremy brother.” She scrambled for some sort ofrationalizationforallthis.

“Buthe’snot,”Sydneysaidgently.

Hallie didn’t like what she was hearing at all. It made her anxious.“You’reactingreallyweird.What’sbringingthison?”

Sydney’semeraldeyeslandedonHalliewithpurpose.“Heislikefamily.To all of us. Iwant him tobe inRobby’s life. IfAshleyor anyone elsehedates doesn’t feel comfortablewith theway you two are, then I’mworriedhe’llstayaway…LikewhathappenedwithJeff.”

Thatlastremarkfloatedinthespacebetweenthem,stoppingHallieinhertracks.

“What?”

Sydney’sbrowfurrowed.“IwonderedifBenwouldtellyou.”

“Tellmewhat?”

Sydneychewedtheinsideofherlip,asifsheweredecidingatthatverymoment whether to divulgemore than she had. Finally, she relented. “Jeffaskedhimtobackoff.”

Hallie’s mouth flew open, her eyes nearly bulging from their sockets.“What?”shesaidmid-gasp.Afirestormof irritationshot throughherveins.All that time she’d neededBen, at her very lowest,when she didn’t knowhowshe’dgoon,andhe’dstayedaway—thatwasJeff’sdoing?“WhywouldJeffdothat?”

“Hegotnervoussomethingmightbedevelopingbetweenyoutwo.”

Fourwholemonths…“Howdoyouknowallthis?”

“Bentoldme.”SydneylookedbackoutatRobby.Hecastthelineintothe

waterandthensaidsomethingtoBenthatmadehimchuckle.“AfterJeffhadtoldhimtostayaway,RobbybarelysawBen.Iknowit’snotBen’sjobtobewithmykid,butRobbyadoreshim.Ben’sbeentherehiswholelife…”

Halliehadtoworktofocusonhersister,hermindgoingahundredmilesanhour.Shestilldidn’tknowwhattosay.Shecouldn’tbelieveit.

“I just wonder if you should be more careful around him. Out ofconsiderationforAshleyand,indirectly,Robby.”

ThelastthingHalliewantedwastoruinRobby’sonlychancerightnowtohave apositivemale influence.Heneeded that. “I guessyou’re right.”Theideaofbeinganythingotherthanthewayshe’dalwaysbeenwithBenseemedforeigntoher.Justwhenherworldhadbeentotallyshaken,shenowhadyetanotherblow.Lifeassheknewitwaschanging…

EIGHT

“Let me help you,” Ben said, taking Uncle Hank by the arm and gentlyguidinghimtothelawnchairthathadbeensetupforhim.Benmadesuretohangtheswingbeforethedoctor’sappointmentsothatUncleHankcouldbeapartofthings.

FlashesofUncleHankteachingayoungBenhowtobaitafishinghookfiltered intoHallie’smind, and she couldn’t help but acknowledge that theroleswerereversed.UncleHanknowrequiredcaringforwhenhe’dalwaysbeenthepersonwhocaredforeveryoneelse.Benhelpedhimgetsettled,andthenpopped the topoffabottleofbeer fromthecoolerbesideUncleHankandhandedittohim.ItwasagoodthingMamawasoutrunningerrandsorshewould’vesnatcheditrightbackoutofUncleHank’shands,claiminghedidn’tneedalcoholinhissystem.

Halliemadeout thehintofasmileatBen’sgesture.UncleHankhadn’tbeenthrilledaboutgoingoutsideafterhislastattemptatthegazebo,butBenand Robby had convinced him. He’d grumbled all the way out there andhadn’tstopped.

“You’reperfectlycapableofdoingthisonyourown,”hesaidtoBen.

“IfItiethewrongkindofknot,”Bensaid,openingthecooleragaintogethimself a bottle ofwater, “Robby’s safety could be at stake. I need you toshowmehowtodoit.”

ButUncleHankcontinuedhispouting.“Idon’tbuythatforaminute.”Hetippedhisbeerupandtookadrink.“Iknowyoutoowell,BenMurray.You’dneverdoanythingtoputthatboyinharm’sway.Andyoucanjustaseasily

search for the answer on that phone of yours. I know you’ve got it on yabecauseitkeepsringingoffthehook.”

Ben didn’t offer an explanation, leaving Hallie to wonder who’d beencalling.Hewasterriblybusyatwork.Somanybandscameinandoutofthestudiothatheshouldhaveinstalledarevolvingdoor.Halliewasn’tcertainatallhowtheyweremanagingwithouthim.Benactedas thecreativedirectorformanyoftheartists.Hewasthemagic-maker.

The old tire swing sat in a lumpon the front lawn.One solid oak tree,with a trunk bigger than Hallie could wrap her arms around, stood in themiddleoftheyard,aladderperchedunderitslowestbranch.She’dsatunderthattreetoreadbooksasagirl,andsheandBenhadhiddenbehinditwhentheyplayedHideandSeek.Astormhadknockedtheoriginalbranchthatheldtheswingdown,andnoonehadeverreplacedtheswingafter.Notuntilnow.

HallietookaseatonthecoolgrassnexttoSydney.

“WhatdoIneedtodo?”Robbyasked,thewidthoftheheavyropebarelyallowinghimtograspitinhislittlehand.Heliftedit,throwingasectionofitoverhisshoulder,thetaskmakinghimwinded.

“Hold that end just like you are, and I’ll reach down for it,” Ben said,steppinghiswayuptheladder.“Okay,handittome,”hesaidoncehewasupafewrungs.

RobbydutifullygavetheendoftheropetoBen,lookingonashethrewtheropeoverthebranchandclimbedtheextrarungtoreachtheotherside.

“Howarethosemuscles,Robby?Thinkyoucanholdthattire?”hecalleddown.

Robbyworkedtoliftthetire,hisfaceseriousashetriedhisbesttohelpBen,histhinframeworkingovertime.Hedroppeditwithathudandpickeditbackup,thenrolleditovertotheladderandputhishandonittokeepitfromfallingontothegrass.AtlastBentookitfromhishandsandthreadedtheropethroughit.

“Justhold it steadynow,”he toldRobby.Robbywobbled the tire againandbattedSydneyawaywhenshetriedtohelphimstabilizeit.

“I’vegotit,Mama,”hesaidwithpride.

“Uncle Hank, this is where I need you,” Ben called down, his voiceslightlystrainedfromholdingthemassiveropesinplace.

“Makeyourselfadoubleloopfirst,”hecalleduptoBen.“Rememberhowwediditonthatclimbinthemountainswhenyouwereyounger?Doitlikethat.”

“Oh yeah,” he said,making two loops and threading theworking piecethroughthem.

“That’sright.Yep.Wrapitaround.Now,tuckitintheholeyou’vemade,”UncleHanksaid.

“Righthere?”Benheld thewadof ropewithonehandandpointed toasmallopeninginthefoldsofcord.

“You’vegotit.”UncleHanktookanothersipofhisbeer.

Withtheknotsecure,Bencamedowntheladder.“Youcanletgonow,”hetoldRobby.Heputhisfootinthetireandstooduponit,testingthesafetyoftheknotunderhisweight.

“PutyourlegsthroughitandI’llpushyou,”hesaidtoRobby.

“Willyoupushme reallyhigh?”Robbyasked, threadinghis legs insidetheholeandhangingontothetirelikehewasgivingitabigbearhug.“LikeIsaidatbreakfast.Superhigh!”

“Wantmeto?”

Robbynoddedexcitedly.

“Okay,get ready!”Bengrabbedon to the tireandpulled itback towardhim.Thenheran,thrustingtheswingforwardwithallhismight.

Withasquealoflaughter,Robbysailedthroughtheair,hisfeetdanglingabovethegrass.“UncleHank!Lookatmeeee!”hecried,beforeburstingintoafitofgigglesasthetiretwirledwhileswinginglikeanenormouspendulum.

Then the most wonderful thing happened. Uncle Hank laughed—reallylaughed;aloudguffaw,hisearlierscowlsoftening.HalliewishedMamahad

been there to see it, but she’d been out all morning, probably getting thegroceriesthey’dneedfortheweek.She’dbeengonesincejustafterbreakfast.

“Pushmeagain!”Robbysaidastheswingslowed.

SydneygotuptoplaywithRobby,allowingBentocomeovertoHallieandUncleHank.HeploppeddownbesideHallieanddrapedanarmaroundher shoulders. The gesture felt strange now, after the talk she’d had withSydney.Hisphonerangagain.HepulledawayfromHallieandreachedintohispockettosilenceit,withoutevencheckingtoseewhoitwas.

“Whokeepscallingyou?”

“Noone important,”he said. “UncleHank,yougotHallieworriedwithyourcomment.Myphone’sonlyrungtwice.”

UncleHanksethisemptybeeronthecoolerbesidehim.“Threetimesifyoucountjustnow.That’smorethanIgetallweek.”

“Isitwork?”sheasked.

Bengaveheracontentlook.“Workisfine.”ThenhegotupandhelpedSydneypushRobbyontheswing.

AsHalliewatchedthem,itoccurredtoherthatshe’dmissedoutonalotoffamilytimewhenshewaswithJeff.Ithadn’tbeenintentional,butthey’djust done things together rather than with everyone.Watching Sydney andBen playing with Robby, spinning him on the tire swing, Hallie had anoverwhelmingfeelingthatithadbeenaclosecallwithJeff.She’dgottensowrappedupinherlifeandeverythingshe’dgonethroughthatshe’dforgottenwhatitwasliketobeaFlynn.

Shewondered ifUncleHankhad forgotten too.Hewas smiling,with atinyglintinhiseyesthatshowedhertheoldUncleHankwasstillinthere.Iftheycouldjusthavemoremoments like these…Shelookedat thehouse.IthadseenitsshareoftragedywhenitwastakenoverasahospitalbyNortherntroopsduring theCivilWar; ithadweatheredcountless storms,but it stoodproudly and firmly in its spot, despite it all.TheFlynnswere like that too.They couldget battered, feel empty, but theywere strong. Itwas how theywerebuilt.

“I’llberightback,”Halliesaid,andwithoutanyfurtherexplanation,sherantotheguesthouse.

Shepushedopenthescreendoor,thefamiliarscentofgardeniafromthenearbybusheswaftingtowardherwiththemovement.Sheprogressedquicklydown the hallway to the bedroom and opened her suitcase, squatting downnext to it. Carefully, shemoved her clothes until she got to the box she’dpacked,notunderstandingwhyshe’dpacked ituntilnow.Sheopened itupandretrievedhercamera.Itwasn’tanythingfancy—anoldCanonthatshe’dhad for years—but it took beautiful photos and she did have her list toconsider…

Withthecamerainhand,Hallieheadedbackouttotheyard.Butasshenearedtheothers,UncleHankstoodupandlosthisbalance.BenandSydneyhadtheirbackstohim,Robby’slaughinglikeaneerieechointhesilenceofmotionasHalliestartedtorun.Shedroppedhercamera,pushinghermusclesasfarasthey’dgo.“Ben!”shecalled,justasUncleHankhittheground.

Benrushedover tohimandstarted tohelphimup.Halliereached themandputherhandsonherknees,gaspingtocatchherbreath.

“I lost my balance,” Uncle Hank said, clearly stunned by his fall. Hestumbledtowardthechair thathadturnedover, theemptybeerbottle in thegrass,butBenstoppedhim.

“I’llgetit,”hesaid.“Justholdontomeforasecond.”

Sydneyhurriedoverandrightedthechair.

“Doesanythinghurt?Areyouinpainanywhere?”Benasked.

“I can’t live without her,” Uncle Hank said without warning, ignoringBen’s efforts to assess the situation.UncleHank looked at all of them, hiseyespleading,buttherewasnothingtheycoulddotohelphimwiththis.“I’mfallingapartnowthatshe’sgone.What’sthepurposeinmestayingbehind?So I can just exist in a chair somewhere?”His eyes filledwith tears. “I’mtrying,butIjustdon’tseethepointinstickingaround.”

Hallie’smomentofhopeslidaway fromher.UncleHankdidn’t see thepointinliving.Thatwasahorriblethought.

“Ifyou’restillhere,”Sydneysaidfrankly,“thenyou’reneeded.Weneedyou.Wecouldn’tcopewithbothofyougone.Youhavetohelpusall.”

“Ican’thelpyou,”hesaid,dejected.

The man who could always fix everything couldn’t fix this. He wasbrokenhimself.AndHallieknewthatiftheyallallowedthemselvestothinktoo much about Aunt Clara, they’d be just as broken. How does a familymoveonaftersomeonesoimportantleavesit?

“You doing okay?” Ben said, peeking out onto the screened porch of theguesthouse.

Hallie held her phone in her hand, the rippling gulf only calming herslightly.She’dtextedMamaaftershe’dreturnedfromthedoctorwithUncleHank,buthadn’theardback.UncleHankwantedtobealone,andSydneyhadtakenRobbytogetsomelunchintown.So,whileBenmadeafewworkcalls,Halliehadgottenherbookandsettledontheporch.

“I’mokay,”shesaid.

“Yousure?”

“Yeah.”

Hewasinfreshclothes,hishaircombed,hisfaceclean-shaven.“Ihavetogooutforalittlebit.Iwantedtomakesureyoudidn’tneedanything.”

“IsitsomethingIcanhelpwith?”

“No.Youjustsitbackandenjoythesunshine.Youcanreadyourbook—whatareyoureading?”

Hallie held it up and he broke out into a huge smile. “The Art ofPhotography.”

She allowed the small moment of amusement to pass between them.She’dpackedthebookwithaneyerollbutnowitseemedtobecallingher.“Igobackandforthwith that list,but inaweirdway, I feel like itbringsmeclosertoAuntClarawheneverIconsideritagain.IjustwishIcould’vetalked

toheraboutit.I’dhavedoneanythingshewantedmetodo—butitwould’vebeenniceifshe’dtoldmewhy.”

“Perhapsthewhyisn’tasimportantasthejourney.”

“Maybeyou’reright.”

“Icanfeelit,Hallie.”Then,withthatgrinshe’dseensomanytimes,theonethatheseemedtosavejustforher,hesaid,“Backinabit.”

Notwanting topry, shewonderedwherehewasgoing,butdidn’tpresshimanyfurther.“Okay.Seeya,”shesaid.

Withawave,BenshutthedoorandHallietextedhermotheragain.

Noanswer.

Sheopenedherphotographybookandtriedtofocusonthepagesinfrontofher,buthermindwasonamillionotherthings.Shecloseditanddecidedto head into the cottage to see if she could talk to Uncle Hank. She wasworriedabouthimafterhis fall, andwanted to see ifhewasall right.Andmaybe,ifshecouldgethimtalking,hecouldoffersomedirectioninallthis.The two of them thinking togethermight just crackAuntClara’s code andhelpHallietounderstandwhatAuntClarareallywantedfromher.Halliewashopefultheycould.

NINE

Halliepickeduphercameraandher sketchbookand took themwithherasshewalked to themain house.A gull flew overhead, and instinctively, shepulled the cameraup toher eye, the feelingof it inherhands like tangiblenostalgia.Asagirl,shewasrarelywithoutit,catchingsomanyshotsofherchildhoodthatifsheeverorganizedallthephotos,shecouldhaveherentireautobiographyinvividcolor.

Shepointeditatthebirdandclicked,thenhelditouttoviewthedigitalpicture.Capturingan imageandfreezing it in time, the lightcoming in justright,theanglesperfect—itwasasuniquelysatisfyingasithadbeenforhersolongago.

She couldn’t remember the day she’d set her camera down for the lasttime,orwhenshe’dboxeditupwithherdrawingsandshovedtheminthetopof her closet, but just this one image made her wonder why she had. Shepointeditattherestlessgulfandsnappedanothershot.Whenshe’dreachedtheporch,thesightofAuntClara’srockingchaircaughthereye,thatfamiliarvoid comingback. She turned her camera toward it and took a photo. Theimagewashauntinglyclearonherscreen.Halliecroucheddownonthetopoftheporchstepsandopenedhersketchpad,drawingthechairinthesamelightshe’d just found in her photo. She imagined the chairwith the birds she’dseen carved into thebackof it.Herpencilmoving effortlessly, shedug theleadintothepage,carvingthebirdsoutonthebackoftherocker.

HallierememberedsittingonthesestepsdoingthesamethingwhenAuntClarawasalive.Thetwoofthemwouldsketchoutdesigns,andwhileAuntClarawas actuallyworking,Halliewouldpretend shewas too. “Make sure

youfindajobthatdoesn’tfeellikework,”AuntClarawouldtellher.“That’showyouknowyou’rewhere youbelong.”Hallie lookeddown at the chairshe’ddrawn,thinkingaboutherjobrightnowattheadvertisingagency.

Withadeepbreath,sheclosedhersketchpadandwentinside.

“UncleHank!”shecalledintothequiet.

Hisvoicesailedinfromthekitchen.“I’minhere.”

Hewassittingatthetable,facingthewindowwiththeviewofthewateroutside.Howlonghadhebeensittingtherealone?Halliesetherdrawingpadonthecounterandtookaseatbesidehim.Helookeddownatthecamerainherlap.

“Theoldthingstillworks?”

Hallie turned it around and clicked through the digital images she’dcapturedonherwayin,sohecouldseethem.

“Lookslikeyoustillworktoo,”hesaid,allowinghimselfasmile.

“Wouldthisqualifymeasaphotographer?”sheteased.

Hechuckled.“Ibelieveitdoes.ButyourAuntClaraandIhadlongtalksaboutyour talent,andshewasalwaysbaffledas towhyyouneverput it touse.Ithinkthatmighthavebeenwhatshewashopingfor.”

“Imissher,”Hallieadmitted.

UncleHanklookedbackoutthewindow,hisexpressioncontemplative.

“Inoticetheemptinesswithouther.”

UncleHankdidn’tspeakforacoupleofbreathsandhewipedatearthathad escaped fromhis eye. “I reached for her hand last night in bed, and itwasn’tthere.I’vereachedforherhandeverynight,forfiftyyears.”Hislipswobbledandheclearedhisthroat.

Hallie got up and wrapped her arms around his neck, embracing himtightly. “AuntClara toldme that youused to steal the covers,” she said, inhopesthatsharingtheirfeelingsmighthelpthemboth.

UncleHankrolledhiseyes,hisplayful side takingover.“SheclaimedI

stolethecoversasareasontoyankthemalltoherside,soIsupposethatIdidstealthecovers,inhermind,sinceapparentlytheyallbelongedtoher.”

Hallie laughed.Whenshedid,UncleHank laughed tooandshequicklypickeduphercameraandsnappedashot.UncleHankdidn’tseemtomind.

Sheshowedittohim.

“Youcouldworkformagazineswithshotslikethat.Youneedtobedoingsomethingcreative.Whyareyouworkingasareceptionistatthatadvertisingagency?”

“I’mnotareceptionist.I’maprojectmanagerandit’sacreativejob.I’vehadahandinsomeverylargeprojects,”shesaid,herdefensivenesscomingthroughwhenshehadn’tmeantitto.

She liked her job. It was interesting, and the people were great. Sheactuallyhadafewprojectsthathadpiledupthatshewasexcitedabout.Herboss really believed in her creative vision, and sometimes she was able tooffersketchesandideasinthedesignmeetings.He’devenlethermanageafew large-scaledisplays aroundNashville.Shehad a nice little set of ideasstarted for a newventurewithCrystalWater, a bottledwater company andone of their biggest clients, even though she was leaving them behindunfinishedatthemoment,hercoworkerStacytakingcareofwhatshecouldforthenexttwoweeksinHallie’sabsence.

Havingworkmadeherfeelneeded,anditsquashedtheguiltshe’dalwaysfelt for dropping her great aunt’s name into the conversation during theinterview.AuntClara,awell-knownfigureinthedesignworld,wouldneverallowanyofher familymembers touseherasa reference.AuntClarahadstarted her company from ground zero, using her own hard-earnedmoney,andshedidn’tbelieveinraisingherfamilyinprivilege.Whileshe’dneverletthemfall,shewouldn’tallowthemtotaketheeasyroadeither.

“Lifeiswhatyoumakeit,”she’dsay,“notwhatImakeit.Yourlifeisablankslate.Dreamitupjustthewayyouwantit,andthengogetit.It’syourownmasterpiecetocreate.”

Working at Willis Advertising wasn’t what Hallie would call a

masterpiece-move, but did anyone really have a job likeAuntClara’s?Notmany.Itwasjustlikehertoromanticizelife,becausethatwashowshelivedit.Theyshouldallbethatlucky.

Intheend,Halliehadsettledforthelifeofaregularperson,anine-to-fiveofmediocritythatgaveherenoughmoneytoenjoyherselfandletoffsteamontheweekends.Buttherewasatinypieceofherthatalwayswonderedwhatelsewasoutthere,andbeingnearAuntClaramadeherhopethatsomeofthatmagicheraunthadwouldpenetratetheairaroundHallieandsendsomethingspecialherway.WhenAuntClaradied,anylikelihoodofmagichaddrieduprightonthespot.

“Itneverevenoccurredtometobeaphotographer.”

“Clearlyitdid.Itwasonyourlist.”

“ImadethatlistoneSaturdaywhenIwasbored.AndIwastwelve!Myinterestshadchangedcompletelybythenextday.Iprobablywantedtobeanastronautafterthat.GoodthingIdidn’twritethelistthatday.”

Thatmadehimlaugh.

“That’s what makes this so frustrating. Aunt Clara is holding me tosomething I never even intended to be a permanent thought. Being aphotographerwasjustaschoolgirlwhim.”

“Orthetinyseedofadreamthathadyettobedreamt.”

Hallie looked back down at the image on her camera, and it was as ifsomeoneelsehadtakenit.Shedidn’twanttoadmitthatUncleHankmightberight.Shescrolledthroughtheothersshe’dtakenonthewayover.Shedidn’thave technical skills. She hadn’t even taken a photography class.Howwasshe to know if she was any good? What if she put herself out there andeveryonecouldseeherinexperiencerightaway?

“I’manamateur,”shesaid.

“That’s how everyone begins, Hallie.” He leaned into her view. “AuntClara was a designer. She knows design when she sees it, and she wasadamant thatyouhave talent,butnot just inphotography.You’reacreativejustlikeher.That’swhythetwoofyouwereinseparable—youhadadifferent

wayofseeingthings,anunspokenunderstandingofoneanother.”

Hallieknewhewasright.“Willyouteachmehowtobuildasandcastle?”sheasked.

ItwasthenthatUncleHankgrinnedjustlikeheusedto,awide,endearingsmilethatspreadacrosshisface.“Ofcourse.”

“Wherehaveyoubeen?”HallieaskedMamawhenshefinallyemergedontheback porch of Starlight. She was holding an envelope. “I was starting toworry.”

“Iwas…”Mama’sattentionwasonUncleHank,whohadspent the lasthourontheporchwithHallie.He’dopenedupalittle,andtalkingtoHallieseemed to lift his spirits, butMama coming in had changed his demeanor.“MayIspeaktoyouforasecond?”

Halliestoodupandfollowedhermomintothekitchen,shuttingthedoorbehindthem.“Issomethingwrong?”

Hermothersettheenvelopeonthetable,andcuttheplasticwrappingoffabouquetofflowersshemusthavepickedupatthemarket.Shedumpedtheoldbaby’sbreathfromthetable’scenterpiece,rinsedoutthevase,andstartedarrangingthenewbloomsintoit.“Ineversaidanythingtoyougrowingup,butrememberhowAuntClaraalwaysleftanemptyseatandplacesettingatthe tableatThanksgiving?Didyouevernotice that?Evenwhenwehad somanypeoplewehadtopushtablestogether,therewasalwaysanemptyseat.”Shesnippedtheendoffofadaisyandthreadeditthroughtheothergreeneryinthevase.

Ithadn’toccurredtoHalliebefore,butnowthatMamamentionedit,shedidrememberthat.

“UncleHankgavemeanother letteraddressed tomewhenwegothere.Insideweredirectionstopassthisalong.”MamaslidtheenvelopeacrossthetabletoHalliebeforeshestartedsearchingthecabinets,eventuallypullingoutasecondvase.

HallieopenedtheletterinsideandreadAuntClara’sscript,addressedtoLewisEubanks.“WhoisLewisEubanks?”

“I askedUncleHank and hewouldn’t say anything, but I could tell heknewexactlywhoitwas,andhegotreallyangry.Inmywholelife,I’veneverseenhimlikethat.IwasgladwhenBencametoaskhimtohangtheswingbecauseitcutthetensionintheroom.IleftrightawayandstayedoutofhiswayuntilIfeltlikeI’dgivenhimenoughtimetogetoverit.”Sheplungedafewsmallflowersintothesecondvase.

“Idon’tunderstand.”

“Intheletteraccompanyingthisone,AuntClaratoldmeshesavedaseatfor him every Thanksgiving and that we have to find him. He must havemeant a lot to her. She’s left him a hundred thousand dollars and a secondletterthat’slockedinthesafe.”

“Ohmygosh.”Thatwasalotofmoney.ThisLewishadtobefamily—heandHank shared a last name.And hemust be close family orAunt Clarawouldn’thaveexpectedhimtocometoThanksgiving.“Whywouldn’tUncleHanktellyouwhohewas?”Hallieplacedtheletterbackonthetable.

“Idon’tknow.Heclammedrightupandjustkeptshakinghisheadwithhisjawclampedshut.”Mamalookedbackdownattheenvelope.“HeseemedsobotheredbyitthatIdidn’tpresshimanyfurther.ButyouknowthatAuntClaraonlyleftlettersandinheritancepayoutstoherimmediatefamily.”

Thatwas true.Hallie’smother hadbeen renting a farmhouse outside ofNashville; the lease had the option to purchase. She’d rented with theintentionofsavinguphermoneyandbuyingitoneday.Withtheinheritance,she’d be able to do that now. She dreamed of filling the front porch,overlooking a neighbor’s horse farm, with a large family. Hallie couldn’tunderstandit.Robby’sfatherhadleftSydney,surprisingthemall,andplansforHallie’simpendingnuptialshadfallenapart,sotheoutlookofbigfamilygatherings on the old porchwasn’t very promising.But itwas just like hermothertoplanforthebest-casescenario.

Sydney had been left a large sum of money as well, and while Halliehadn’treadwhatwasinhersister’sletterfromAuntClara,shedidknowthat

her aunt had left some pretty inspirational words—Sydney gave her twoweeks’ notice at the law firm where she worked as a paralegal withoutanythingelselinedup.

Robbywasgiven fundswith explicit instructions forSydneyonhow tocreateanaccountandwhentoinvestthroughacollegesavingsplan.

WhichleftHallie,andshewasstillwaitingtofindoutwhatClarahadleftforheronceshecompletedherlist.

“I’vebeenintown,seeingifanyoneknewLewisEubanks,butIcouldn’tfindanyonewhodid.”

“Wesdoesn’tknow?”

“Nope.”

“That’ssostrange…Doyouthinkhe’salong-lostcousinorsomething?I’veneverevenheardUncleHankmentionhim.”

“Noidea. Iwondered thesame…It’sprobablybest thatwelet itgofornowbecauseitonlyseemstoupsetUncleHank,andhehasenoughalreadytomake him emotional. Maybe we can find this Lewis quietly and just passalongthemoney.I’llcallthelawyertomorrowandfindoutthebestwaytodothat.”

“Yeah,that’sagoodidea.”

She handed the smaller vase to Hallie. “You can put this in theguesthouse,”shesaid.“HowisUncleHank?”Mamanoddedtowardthedoor.

“Imadehimsmile.”

ThetensioninMama’sfacemeltedandhappinesswashedoverit.“That’sgreat,Hallie.Ifanyonecanlifthismood,it’syou.I’msogladyoudecidedtocome.”

“Metoo.”Andshemeantit.

TEN

Hallie lay on the sofa in the guesthouse. The sun had almost completelydisappearedbehind thehorizon,butshehadn’t turned the lightson justyet.She rotated her camera toward the bay window and snapped a picture,Mama’svaseofflowersshe’dputonthecountershadowedagainstthepurplesky.Happywiththeoutcome,shesetthecameraonthecoffeetable.

Butthenshenarrowedhereyesandpickeditbackup,a tingleofworryslidingdownherspine.Squintingatthescreen,shesawthedarkimageofaperson,wayoutbythebeach.Halliegotupandrantothewindow,comparingher photowith the view. Itwas definitely the outline of a person, but nowwhoever it was had gone.Could it have been Ben? she wondered. But hewouldn’t be cominghomevia thebeach at thebackof theproperty, unlesshe’ddecidedtowalkinfromtown,takingthepaththatranalongthecoast.

Shewas just about to turn on the lamp, her fingers trembling over herphonekeyboardtotextBen,whenhecamein,causinghertoscream.

Beau,who’dbeencurledup at thedoorwaiting forBen, jumped to hisfeet.

Ben stumbled over Beau and clicked on the kitchen light,momentarilyblindingHallie.

“What’s thematter?Didyouhaveanightmare?”HesquatteddownandgentlywrestledwithBeauforasecond.

“No, Iwas just restingand I saw this.”Sheheldouther camerawith ashakyhand.“Didyoucomeinthroughthebeach?”

Benshookhishead, clearlyconfusedbyherquestion.Before shecouldevenexplain,shewason thephonewithhermother, recountingwhatshe’dseenthroughthelens.Mamatoldhershe’dcallthepolicerightaway.

Ben peered out the window, the camera still in his hand, along with abrownbagthathe’dcomeinwith.“Coulditjustbesomeonetakingawalk?”

“Onaprivatebeach?”Sherantothedoorandlockedthebolt.

“The little shadow of a person doesn’t seem menacing. If it’s even aperson.Itcouldbejustaglitchinthephotography.”Bentriedtozoominontheimagebutitgotblurry.

“Uncle Hank lets Gavin, the painter, use the beach. Could it be him?”Hallieprayeditwas.

“Maybe.”

“Itscaredmetodeath.”

“Well,I’mherenowtoprotectyou.”Benthrewhimselfintoanenergeticju-jitsumove,makingherlaughdespitehowscaredshewas.

“You’remaking jokesandthispersoncouldbeanyone…Hecouldbeakiller!”

“Akillerwhoiscasuallystrollingawayfromthehouse,nothingisstolen,andhe’snowgone.Andthat’sifitwasevenapersonatall.”

“Itwasaperson!Andtheyshouldn’tbeontheproperty.”

“You said yourself that it might be the painter. And there isn’t anyonetherenow,thatIcansee.”Hesetthecameradownandheldupthebrownbaghehad inhisotherhand. “Letmedistractyou…Sorry I took so long.”Hepauseddramatically,shakingthebrownbag,gettingBeauexcited.“Igotpietoapologize.”

Hallieperkedup.“Isit…?”

“Yes.Itis.”

Halliegasped.

Neither of themhad to actually say “SallyAnn’sBakery” to know that

insidethebagwasoneofSallyAnn’shomemadepeachcobblers.Thewholetownknewaboutherfamouscobbler,andinthesummermonthstheyhadtobeorderedspecially,becausetheysoldoutfasterthanshecouldsay“pie.”

“Howdidyougetone?”

“Ipromisedherapre-releaseSylvanParkCDandshegotonefromtheback. She said she saves them for emergencies. I told her that leaving youwithoutawordalldaywasdefinitelyanemergency.”Heset thebagon thetable.“It’llgogreatwiththewinewehave.”

“Yes. It will.” Hallie got up and retrieved two plates from the cabinet,whileBengrabbednapkinsandthewineglasses.

Hefilledtheirglassesandpulledoutakitchenchairforher.

“Sowhatwereyoudoingallday?”sheasked,settingtheplatesdownandopening the bag, sinking her hand into it and removing the plastic cobblerbox.

“Ashley’sintown.”

“Oh!I’mgladyouwereabletoseeher,”Halliesaidoverhershoulder,asshe opened the drawer to get the pie server. She cut them each a slice andplacedoneoneachplate.

“Yeah.”Bentookhisplateandsatdownacrossthetable.

“Feelfreetohaveherover.”

Therewasanoddpause.ItwassosubtleHalliealmostmissedit.“Idon’twantyoutofeellikeyouhavetoentertainher,”Bensaid.“Youhaveenoughgoingon.”

“Iloveher,though!SheandIhavesomuchtotalkabout.Weseemtolikeallthesamethings;wecanchatforhours.”

He stared at her, his face unreadable. And then he snapped out ofwhatever thought he had. “I know.” He scraped the point off his slice ofcobblerandtookaquietbite,lookingtiredallofasudden.

“Istheresomethingyouaren’ttellingme?”

Theireyesmetandheheldhergaze,hislipspartingjustslightlyasifhewantedtotellher,butheshookhishead.“Nothingnew.How’sUncleHank?”

“Sad.Buthe’sgoingtoshowmehowhemakeshissandcastles.”

“Ah,that’sawesome.Howdidyoumanagethat?”

“Wewere reminiscing aboutAuntClara and it just seemed like a goodtimetoask.Helookedhappytoshowme.”

“I’msogladtohearit.AndIwanttoseethat.Weshouldgethimtoshowustomorrowmorning.Ihavenoplans.”

Beausighedandswitchedpositionsloudlyunderthetable.

“I know, boy.You need awalk.MaybeHalliewill gowith us afterwefinishourpie.”

“I’dloveto.”

Bensmiled.“I’llrefillourwinebeforewego.Wecantakeitwithus.”

ThepolicehadbeenouttothehousetoinvestigatewhatHalliehadseen,buttheycouldn’tfindanythingamiss.Nooneelseintheareahadreportedseeinganyone, and their patrols had been relatively quiet, which was typical ofFireflyBeach. Itwassosecludedfromtheothervillages that,unless itwastourist season, people left their doors unlocked because they all knew oneanother. But even at its busiest, if some stranger were to show up aroundtown,peoplewouldtalk,andthatpersonwouldn’tbeastrangerforlong.

Withoutasoliddescription,locatingtheindividualoncethey’dgottenoffthepropertywaslikefindinganeedleinahaystack.Thepoliceofficersfiledthe report and said they’d send around a couple of guys to monitor theproperty, and as one of the officer’s fathers was a good friend of UncleHank’s,hepromisedtodrivepasteveryday,evenwhenhewasoffduty.Oncetheyhadtheall-clearfromtheofficersthatthepropertywasfreeofintruders,BenandHalliewalkedBeauandfinishedoff thewine.Theiremptyglassessatbesidethemonthedock,theirsandybarefeetdanglingabovethemoonlitwater.

Halliekeptlookingdownthebeachinbothdirections,buttheonlythingshe sawwas sandand surf, the lighthouse toweringover themas if itwerekeepingwatch.

“Don’tworry,”Bentoldher.

“Howcanyousaythat?”

“Becauseallwehaveisagrainyphotoofsomethingthatmightormightnotbeaperson.TherearepicturesofBigFootthatareclearerthanthat,andwe still don’t know ifBig Foot exists.”Ben threw a ball into the surf andBeau lopedoff thedock,diving in to retrieve it.Heswamtoshoreand ranontothebeach,shakingthewaterfromhisfur.“Andthepolicedidn’tfindathing.Solet’senjoyourselves.”

“If it was the same person Uncle Hank has seen,” Hallie said, a waveripplingupunderhertoes,“I’dthinkifheweretryingtostealsomethingofvalue,he’ddropinwhennoonewashere.Butthere’snoevidencetosuggestthat’shappening.Inthepast,UncleHanksaidhesawhimatthewindow,but,if thatwashimtonight,he’sstayingouton thebeachnow,further fromthehouse.Itdoesn’tmakeanysense.Whatdoeshewant?”

“Theonlywaywecananswerthatisbycatchinghim.Ifhecomesaroundagain.Maybehe’sjustacuriouswanderer.”

“Iwishweknew.”

BenputhisarmaroundHallieandshelethimkeepitthere.Hemadeherfeelsafe.

As the night went on, Hallie and Ben talked about all kinds of things.She’d told him about Lewis and Aunt Clara’s letters. He’d shared storiesaboutafewofthesingershe’dbeenworkingwithandoneofthesongwritershereallyliked.Ithadtakenallevening,butshe’dfinallygottenupthenervetoaskhimaboutthosefourmonths…

“Whydidn’tyousaysomethingtome?”

“Ididn’twanttogetinthewayofyourhappiness,”hesaid.

“You think I’d be happy with someone who wouldn’t want me to see

you?”

Benlookedthoughtful.Hesqueezedhertighterandshelaidherheadonhisshoulder.However,shethoughtaboutwhatSydneyhadsaidandwriggledawayfromhim,grabbingtheballthatBeauhadsetbesidethem.“Beau!”shecalled,standinguponthedockandtossingitwithaplopintothewater.Beauhappilyfolloweditin.Thebrinyairrushedoverherskin.Shetookinadeepbreathandletitout.

WhenHallieturnedback,Benwaswatchingher.Wheneverhelookedather, itwas as if she could seewhole thoughts in his eyes.She could neverread those thoughts, but theywere everpresent inhisgaze.Heapproachedeverythingwith such passion; so different from her other friends, differentfromJeff—anyonereally.

Therewasnoonelikehim,andshewassogladshewasluckyenoughtohavehiminherlife.Sydneywasright.Halliedidn’twanttoeverlosehim.

Butsheneededtobeadultaboutthings,despitehergrief.Shehadtofindherownstrengthand trynot to relyonBen somuch.She’dmake sure shedidn’tmessthisup.

“Imightsleepinthemainhousetonight,”sheoffered,despitewantingtocontinue theirevening together.“Youknow,stay in theempty roomnext toUncleHank.”

Thoseindistinguishablethoughtsbehindhiseyesseemedtomultiplyrightinfrontofher.“Why?”

“Ireallygotsomewherewithhimtoday.IthinkIshouldbecloseby.”

Ben’s eyebrows rose in contemplation. “I can move us into the mainhouse.”

“Iwas thinking justme. Iwouldn’twant you to feel squeezed in there.Thebed’ssmallandyou’denduponthesofainthelivingroom.You’llsleepbetter in theguesthousebedroomwithBeau,and thequietwillgiveyouanopportunitytoworkonyourmusic.I’dfeelguiltyifIdidn’tgiveyoutimetogetitdone.”

Hesmiledbutitdidn’treachhiseyes,andshehopedshehadn’toffended

him.But then he got up and grabbed their glasses. “I’ll help you get yourthingsintothehouse.”

“Thankyou.”

BencalledforBeauandtheystartedbacktotheguesthouse.

Theeleveno’clocknewshad finished,andabarrageofcommercialsblaredonthescreeninHallie’snewbedroom,soshemutedthetelevision,preferringsilencewhilestill requiring the light fromthescreen.Shedidn’twant tobealone in there in the dark.She’dbe leftwith only her other senses and thesoundsof thewavesoutside.The smells all aroundher, and the feel of theextrasoftbeddingAuntClaraused,tookherbacktoherchildhood.

The space doubled as a sewing room, so onewallwas full of shelvingwithAuntClara’s fabricsand spoolsof thread.Her lilac scent still lingeredeverywhere,andherreadingglassessatuntouchedonthesewingtable.Hallielayonthebedandclosedhereyes,wishingforthosedayswhenherheartwasyoung and her burdens were light.What happened to themwhen they gotolder?Whydidtheinnocenceofyouthhavetofade?

Herphonebuzzedwithatext:Whatchadoing?

ItwasBen.

She rolled over and texted back: Nothing. Just lying here. Everythingokay?

Yeah, Ionlywanted to sayhi. I saw the light fromyourTV through thewindowsoIknewyouwereup.I’mboredoutherebymyself.EvenBeauleftmeforthecomfortofyourbed.

She smiled at her screen as if he could see her now, and typed,UncleHankhas vanilla ice cream in the freezer…Halliewaited for him to comeback,thethreelittledotspulsatingunderhertext.Theydisappearedandherphonescreensatempty.MaybeBeaugotup…WhenBendidn’tanswer,sheturnedoverandstaredattheceiling,everythingracingbackthroughhermindagain.

Aquietknockonthebedroomdoorpulledherfromherthoughts.

Whensheanswered it,Benwas standing in thehallway,holdingup thebottle of her favorite blackberry wine. He whispered, “I’ve heard this isdivineovervanillaicecream.”

Shelaughedsoftly,andhiseyesswallowedher,thatever-presentfondnessthatshelovedsomuchshowinginthem.

“And,”he said, “we reallyneed togetUncleHank tomove thehide-a-key.Everyoneknowsthefirstplacetolookisunderthefrontmat.”Hehelditupandputitinhispocket.

Hallie tookhimby thearmand theywalked soundlessly to thekitchen,carefulnottoputtoomuchweightineachsteptocreakthefloorboards.

“WheredoesUncleHankkeeptheicecreamscoop?”Benwhispered,ashereachedintothecabinetandpulledouttwobowls.

Halliepointedtowardthedrawerbythesink,andBensliditopenwhilesheclickedonthesmalllampinthecornerofthecountersotheycouldsee,evenifonlyabit.Heranhisfingersalongthecontentsofthedrawer,makingthem clink softly. Hallie went over to help. She moved in over his hand,feelingfortheroundededgeofthescoopuntilshegotitwithoutasound,andhelditouttohim.

When he reached out to take it, they fumbled the exchange in the dimlightandthescoopfelltothefloorwithaclang.Halliethrewherhandtohermouthtostiflehergiggle.

“Alwayswhenyou’retryingtobequiet,”hesaidfaintly,bendingdowntopick itup.He took it to thesinkandwashed itoff.Even the runningwatersoundedloudinthedarkness.

“We’regonnawakethewholehouseup,”shesaidwithanothersnicker.

“Nah.We’re fine.”Hegotout the tubof icecreamandscoopeda largehelpingforbothofthem.Then,withahollowpop,heuncorkedthebottleandpouredthesugary-sweetblackberrywineoverthetop.

“Howmuchwinedidyoubring?”sheteasedhim.

“Clearly not enough. This is the last bottle, apart from your mama’schardonnay. We’re definitely going to need to run in to town tomorrow.Unlessyouwanticecreamwithbeerontop.Whichmightnotbeterrible…”

Shelaughed,herheartsolightattheirbanterthatshewishedtheycouldstayinthismomentforever.

Benputhisfingertohislipstoremindhertokeepitdown,andplacedherbowlonthetable.Thenhesatacrossfromher,thesoftlightfilteringaroundthemlikeawarmhug.Benwastheonlypersonshecouldhavewineandicecreamwithatmidnightandconsideritnormalbehavior.

“Remember that nightwhenwewere nine, andweboth crawled out ofourwindowsandmeteachother inyour treehouse toeatchocolatebarsattwointhemorning?”Shelaughedintoherfisttosuppressthesound.

“Yes.Wefellasleepoutthereandourmothersnearlykilledus.”

“MamacalledSheriffJones!Theythoughtweweremissing.”

“Wetorturedourpoorparentsovertheyears.”Hescoopedupaspoonfulof ice cream. “Butwenevermeant to. I justwanted toofferyou chocolatebecauseIknewitwasyourfavorite.That’sallitwas.”

Halliecouldn’ttakehereyesoffhim,andinthatinstant,sherealizedhowinsignificant her relationship with Jeff had been compared to this. Herconversations with Ben were more intimate than even a kiss. In thosemoments,hehadallofher,everythingshecouldgive.Itwasafeelingshe’dneverhadwithanyoneelse,anddefiningitwastoodifficulttogetherheadaround.WhileJeffhadbeen romanticat first—andsweet—hedidn’tholdacandletoBen.Howhadshenotseenit?HeryearswithBenwereworthmorethananythingelseinherworld.Butwhatdidthisrealizationmean?

Theybothsharedtheirmomentofnostalgiabeforetheharshkitchenlightclickedonabovethem,makingthemsquint.

“Whatarey’alldoingup?”Mamasaid,standinginhersummerbathrobe,rubbinghereyes.

“Havingicecream,”Bensaid,teasingasifitweretotallynormaltohaveicecreamatthathour.

“Y’allscaredmehalf todeath.You’reluckyIfoundyouearlierandnotlater.Iwascomingintogetafryingpantodefendmyself.Icould’veclubbedyouone.”Shewentovertothecounterandtippedthetubtowardherwithherfingertopeerdownintoit.“Ihopeyouhaveenoughforme.”Mamaturnedaroundandwalkedovertowardthem,hernoseintheair,followingthescentofsomething.“IsthatalcoholIsmell?”

“Blackberrywine.”Hallieheldupaspoonful.

Mamaleanedinandtookabiteofit.“Ohmy!That’swonderful.”

Benhadalreadygonetothecounterandretrievedanotherbowl,scoopingmoreicecreamanddrizzlingthewineontop.HehandedittoMama.“IfeellikeIhaven’tseenyou,”hesaid,beforepullingoutachairatthetableforherbesideHallie.

“I’ve been busy,” she said. “I followed a noise down here, but thenhearingyourgigglingtookmebacktooldtimesandIjusthadtobeapartofit.Ihopeit’sokayifIjoinyoutwo.”

“Of course,”Hallie said, putting her arm aroundMama and giving hersideasqueeze.“I’vemissedyou.Ifeellikewe’vehadsomuchgoingonthatwehaven’thadtimetojustbe,youknow?”

“Yes.” Mama shook her head but then smiled as she looked betweenHallieandBen.“Itdoesn’tfeellikeit,I’msure,butI’msogladyoutwoarehere. It makes everything better.” She swirled her spoon around in her icecream.“IrecallwhenAuntClarausedtogetupinthenightandmakecoffee.Iwouldtellherthecaffeinewasn’tgoodforheratthathourandshe’dalwayssay,‘Well,I’mupanyway,soitcan’thurt.’”

Hallie grinned. “She was so calm and collected, but at the same time,restless.”

“Yes.Itwashercreativesoul.Shealwayswantedtobedoingsomething,fillingherminutestotheirfullest.Youknowwhatshesaidaboutsleep?Shesaid,‘IcansleepwhenI’mgonefromthisearth.’”Mamatookabiteof icecreamandswallowed,clearlypondering that statement. “She’dbehappy toseeusalltogether,upinthemiddleofthenight.”

“I’llbetshe’sherewithus.She’sstillnotsleeping,”Benventured.

“You’reprobablyright.”Mamasaid.

Hallielethergazefallontheemptychairandthistime,itdidn’tfeelasemptyasithadthefirsttimeshe’dseenit.ShecaughtMamalookingatittoo,andtheybothsmiledateachotherknowingly.

“UncleHankisgoingtoshowmehowtomakeasandcastletomorrow.”

“Oh?”Mama continued swirling her ice cream around in her bowl, thewinecoloringitalightshadeoflavender.“Iwaswonderingifweshouldhiresomeonetostaywithhimduringthedaywhenwearen’there,tomakesurehe canget out to thegazebowhenhewants to, and tokeepan eyeout foranyonewhocomesontotheproperty.”

“That’s a good idea,” Ben said. “I know Wes had someone helpingMaggie when she had her knee surgery. We could go into town and asktomorrow.”

Halliescraped themelting icecreaminherbowl togetamouthfulontoherspoon.“Let’sgointogether.Iwantedtotakealookatthatgallery.”Shefinishedher bite and then turned toMama. “Wouldyou like to gowithus,Mama?”

“I’d love to. Itwould be nice to get out again and talk to people.AuntClara would’ve wanted that for us. She was a people person. Her love ofbeingaroundotherswaswhatmadehersuchanexcellentdesigner.Shecouldreadpeoplereallywell,andshewasagreatjudgeofwhatthey’dwant.”

Hallie had towonder if itwas that judgment that hadmadeAuntClaragiveherthelist.HerauntmighthaveknownwhatHalliewantedbeforeshedid.Butonlytimewouldtell…

ELEVEN

“Thekey iswater,”UncleHanksaidfromthechair thatBenhadsetupforhimunderanautical-stripedbeachumbrella in thesand thismorning,sohecould help Hallie build a sandcastle. Ben had taken everything out to theshoreforthem,butthenAshleyhadcalledandaskedhimifhe’dgointotowntohavecoffee.Halliehadencouragedhimtogo,eventhoughBenhadwantedtobewiththemforthis.

“Even when you think you’ve got too much,” Uncle Hank continued,“you dump more on. It won’t hurt at all. It just soaks in.” The umbrellaflappedwildlyagainstthewind,ripplingabovethem,butBenhadsecureditwell.

Hallietippedabucketover,thesaltywatersplashingontothesand.

“Getonemorebucketful.”

Sheturnedanotherover,thewhitesandbecomingapaleshadeoftan,theumbrellacastingalongshadowoverit.

“Now,start toshapeyoursand.Pack it into thatplasticcastlemoldyouhavethere.”

Halliedidas shewas told, andwhathad seemednearly impossiblewasnowsoeasy.Shewasbuildingithigh,eachsectionstayinginplaceperfectly.Allshe’dneededwasalittlehelpfromUncleHank.Foryears,he’dheldhissecret in.Nooneknewhowhewas able to do it, and surprisingly noneofthemhadfigureditout.

Shestackedanothercastleontopoftheother,usingherhandtomoldit

gently.“Thisissoeasy.WhenIwasgrowingup,whydidn’tyoutellmehowtodothis?”

“Youneverasked.”

Hallietuckedastrandofhairbehindherear,thinkingabouthisstatement.They’dhadlotsofconversationsandhe’dofferedsomuchabouthimself inthem,buthewasright:she’dneveraskedhimaboutthings.Whathadhefeltoverthoseyears?Whatdidhemissthemostaboutthem?Perhapssheshouldstartnow.

“What’syourfavoritememoryofthisplace,UncleHank?”

Hisfocuslandedonthebendingseaoatsbeforeturningbacktoher.“It’stoohardtochooseoneinparticular.Thatwouldbeawfullyunfair toall theothermemories,andtherearesomany.”

“WhatwouldyoutakeawayfromStarlightifyoueverhadtoleave?”sheasked,asshepackedsandaroundthebaseofthetower,smoothingitwithherfingers.

“Mmm.Thesoulofit.”

“Which is?”Sherinsedherhands in thebucketofwaterandflickedofftheexcess.

Heranhisfingersoverhisknees,thinking.“Love.Therewasalotoflovehere.MorethanI’veeverseenanywhereelseinmylife.”

Hallie stoodup, her entire attention on him.UncleHankwas the luckyone.Hallie’sfatherhadrunoffwhenshewaslittle,SydneyhadmetthesamefatewithChristian,andnowHalliehadbrokenoffherownengagement.YetUncleHank’s first thoughtwas of love. It had to be his andAunt Clara’s.“HowdidyouandAuntClaradoit?”

“Whatdoyoumean?’

“How did you and Aunt Clara manage that level of happiness for solong?”

“There’s not just one answer to that question, but I suppose if I had tochoosethemostimportantthing,I’dsayit’sjustshowingup.Duringthegood

times,thebadones,themomentsyoucan’tbelieveyou’deverbeasbusyasyouare,justbethereforeachother.Showup.”

“Howdoyouknowwhenyou’vefoundthatonepersonyouwanttoshowupfor?”

“Because you can’t go through an entire day without thinking aboutthem.”

Hallieconsideredthis.TheonlypersonlikethatforherwasBen.“IhopeI’mluckyenoughtofindsomeonelikethatoneday,”shesaid.

“Sometimes, it’s when you stop looking that you find what you’researchingfor.Youhavesomanygoodyearsaheadofyou.Don’trushit.He’soutthere.It’sjustnotquitetimeforthetwoofyouyet.”Heclearedhisthroat.“Butwhenitistime,payattentiontoeverysinglemomentbecauseitflies…”Helookedbackouttotheseaoats.

“Iwill,Ipromise,”shesaidquietly.“Look!”

Hepeereddownathercastle.“Youdidit.”

“Idid!”Shelaughed,delightedtohavefinisheditsoeasily.

“Numberoneonyourlistisdone!”

Halliedidn’twanttomentionthatnumberonewastheeasiestonthelist.“WasIsupposedtolearnsomethingfromthis?IfeellikeAuntClaraistryingtotellmesomething.”

“Oh,Isupposeyoucouldlearnalotofthings:patience…perseverance…thatyoushouldspendtimetalkingtoanoldmanbecauseheenjoysthat…”Hegrinned.“Thankyoufortakingmymindoffthehardstuffforawhile.”

Shesoakedupthedelightshefoundinseeinghishappiness.“Anytime.”

“AreyoueverplanningtobringAshleytoStarlight?”HallieaskedBenashegotoutofthejeep.Shewouldbeabreathoffreshairtohavearound.

Beau,who’dbeen running in thewater allmorning, racedover togreethim,andBenreacheddownandscratchedbehindhisears.Beaupressedhis

foreheadtoBen’slegwhilehistailwhippedbackandforth.

“Youreallydon’thavetospendallmorningintown.Haveherover.Wecanmakeherbreakfast.Itwouldbefun.”

“Ithinkyouallneedtohavefamilytime.”Benshutthedoortothejeep.“I’d feel horrible imposing on the family with an outsider. Uncle Hankprobably likes the solitude to grieve. It’s bad enough I’m eating his icecream…”

“Youmightaswellbefamily,sodon’tthinkforoneminutethatyoubeinghereisanissue.”Shewalkedaroundthevehicleandstoodinfrontofhimintheshadeofthepalmtree,toavoidtheblazingsun.“AndUncleHanktoldmetodaythathewasgladIpulledhimoutsideandtalkedtohim.Itgothimawayfrom all the heavy thoughts he’s been having for awhile. I don’t think hewantssolitude.”ShewalkedalongwithBentothewaterhose.Hecrankedtherustywheel and thewater cameon. “He really lovesbeing aroundyou.Hewouldn’tmindatallifyoubroughtAshleyover,I’msure.”

“Maybe another time.” Ben held the hose over Beau’s water bowl andfilled it up to thebrimbefore turning thehoseoff.Beau ranover to it andlappedhalfofitup,thewatersloshingbackandforth,droppingspotsontothestoop.

“Nobodyelsewouldmindeither.Itwouldprobablylightenthemood.”

Beauranbackouttothebeach.

“It might not be the best timing. I went into town to give her someclosure…Ibrokethingsoffwithher.”

“Ohmygoodness,Ben.I’msosorry.Whathappened?”

Hestaredintohereyesforasecondbeforeshakinghishead.“Ijustdidn’thavethesamefeelingsforherthatshehadforme.”

“That’stoobad.Ireallylikedher.”

Bentookinalongbreathandnoddedinunderstanding.

“What time are we taking your mama into town?” he asked, clearlywantingtochangethesubject.

Hallielethim.HeseemedtroubledbythesituationwithAshleyandshedidn’t want to make him rehash things. “I think she’s ready whenever weare.”HalliegrabbedBen’sarm.“Butfirst,Iwanttoshowyousomething!”

“Youdo?”Hegaveherhiscompleteattention,alovinggrinonhisface.

“Yep! Followme.” She pulled him toward thewater, leading him untiltheyreachedthesand.“LookwhatImade.”

“Youbuiltasandcastle!That’sgreat,Hallie—I’msoexcitedforyou.”Hegaveheralittlesqueeze.“Onlyfourmorethingsonthelist.What’snumbertwo?”

Hallie frowned. “Become a photographer. Just up and change an entireprofession—nobigdeal.”

“Perfect.We’restoppingbythegalleryintown.Bringyourcamera.Withyour talent,we’ll show theowner,he’ll hireyou immediately, andwe’llbeabletomarkthatoffthelistbydinner.”

“I hear you,” she said dryly, trying not to let on howmuch his upbeatteasinghelpedherthroughthis.

“Let’s go in and get yourmama.We should ask Sydney andRobby tocometoo.Themorethemerrier.”

“I’llroundthemupwhileyougetBeauintothejeep.”

Sydney offered to stay with Uncle Hank in case he needed anything, butRobbywantedtogo,talkingamileaminutetoBenastheyheadedouttotheguesthousedriveway.Theyallreachedthejeepandclimbedin.

“ShouldwegotoWesandMaggie’sfirst?WecanhavelunchandseeifWes can give us the nameof that caretaker,”Mama said, holding back herhairasthewarmsummerwindwhippedthroughtheopenjeep.

“MaybeIcanhave thedrinkI likewith thewhippedcreamandcherry?TheOrangeSmash,”Robby asked. “And their homemade caramel popcornpiefordessert?”HereachedoverandrubbedBeau,whowassittingbetween

himandMama.

WesandMaggiewerefriendswithSallyAnn,andshedeliverednoveltypiesdailyfortheirdessertmenu.Themostpopularwasthecaramelpopcornpie,exclusivelybakedfortherestaurant.“Iwouldn’tdreamofgoingtoWesandMaggie’swithouthavingthecaramelpopcornpie,”Bensaid,ashemadeeyecontactwithRobbyinhisrearviewmirror.“That’stherealreasonwe’regoing,right?Sowecanallhavethepie?”

Robbygiggled.

Theydrovedownthescenicrouteconnectingallthevillages,anddottedwithrestaurantsandshopsalongFireflyBeach’s littlestretchof it.Withthetouristseasoninfullswing,thewalk-upgelatoandhotdogstandswerefullofvacationers, clad in their swimsuits, brightly colored beach towels thrownover theirshouldersandwrappedaround theirbodies, theirhairwet fromamorninginthewarmwatersofthegulf.WhileFireflyBeachwasknownasFlorida’sbest-keptsecret,thelittlevillagewasslowlygainingtractionamongartistsandthoseseekingaquieterbeachvacationthanitsneighboringtownscouldoffer.

It was only a few minutes’ drive into town and they pulled up at therestaurant.Onewholewall of garage-style doorswas open to the sea. Thedeckoverlookingthegulfwascrowded,theredumbrellasuponeverytable,withmatchingpotsofgeraniums lining theedgesof thedecking,whichsatrightinthesand.Thebrightnessofitagainsttheaquamarinebackgroundwasthepictureofsummer.

“ItextedWesbeforeweleft,andhe’sholdingusatablejustinsideneartheopeningtothedeck,”Bensaid.

Beau jumped out with them and walked beside Ben. He was so wellmanneredthatWesallowedBentohavehimonthedeckwhenevertheywerein town.Their lunch tablewas the sameone every time—right at the opendoorssotheycouldeatinthecoolshadeinsidewhileBeaulayonthedeck.Wes even had awater bowl for him.WhileWes always joked that hewasmakingspecialarrangementsjustforBen,Hallieknewthathe’dprobablyletanyonebringtheirdogifitwasasgoodasBeau.

Theyall tooktheirseatsandWesjoinedthemfromtheothersideofthebar.

“Gladtoseemyfavoritefamily!”hesaid,assistingRobbywithhischair.“Letmegrab your drink order and then I’ll getMaggie. She’s in the back.She’dlovetoseeyou!”

“YouknowwhatdrinkIwant!”Robbytoldhimwithabiggrin.

“I’vegotyoucovered—oneOrangeSmashcomingup!”

Wes took the rest of their orders and hurried into the kitchen to getMaggie.Halliecouldn’twaittoseeher.MaggiewasoneofAuntClara’sgoodfriends. IfHallie tried tocount thenumberof times she’d found the twoofthemintherockersonthebackporch,drinkingsweettea,she’dbethereallday.They’dmetwhenMaggiehadfirstmovedtoFireflyBeach,andthey’dbecomefastfriends.

“Oh, my stars!” Maggie said, shuffling quickly from the kitchen, bothhandsonherheart, showingoff a large silver and turquoise ring.Her long,grayinghairwastwistedupintoacliptocombatthesummerheat,completelyexposinghersmilingface.She’dmadeanameforherselfnationally,singingjinglesforcommercials,butgaveitalluptoruntherestaurant,andshemadeeveryonetherefeel likefamily.“Ihavemissedyou!”SheranovertoHallieand gave her a hug,moving around the table and greeting each person thesameway.“We’remissingafew.Where’syourmom?”sheaskedRobby.

“ShestayedwithUncleHank,”hesaid.

Maggie offered a knowing smile toward Hallie. “Sydney is always thehelper,”shesaid.“IhopeHankisdoingokay.”

“He’supanddown,”Mamasaid.

“Isheabletocomeinsometime?Ireallymisshim.AndIknowhecoulduseacupofhisfavoritecoffee!I’vealwaysgotapotonforhim.”

“Wehaven’tgotten that faryet.He’sstillgrievingprettybadly. Itmightdohimsomegoodtocomeinthough.”

WesmaneuveredaroundMaggieandsetRobby’sdrinkdowninfrontof

him.He’dputadollopofwhippedcreamontopandtwocherriesinsteadofone.ClearlyherememberedhowmuchRobbylikedthem.

“We’re looking for someone to takecareofhimwhenwearen’t there,”Mama said. “Didn’t you have a woman who helped you while yourecuperatedfromyourkneesurgery,Maggie?”

“I did, but she left town to be a songwriter. Moved to Nashville—Ishould’vecalledyou,Ben.Youmighthavebeenabletoshowhertheropes.”

Bensmiled.

“IwannabeamusicproducerwhenIgrowup,”Robbysaid,attemptingtojointheconversation.“IwannabejustlikeBen.”

“Youdo?”Bensaid,clearlyamused.“Whatmakesyouthinkso?”

“Ilikehearingdifferentinstruments.”

“That’sabigpartofit.Thefunbitiswhenyougettoputallthesoundstogether.It’slikethatbigpuzzlewedidlastyear:thewholepictureisn’tthereuntilallthepiecesareintherightorder.”

Robbymovedupontohiskneesandtookadrinkfromhisstraw.ThenhesaidtoBen,“Doyouevergettiredofdoingyourjob?”

“Nope.It’soneofmyfavoritethingstodo.”

Robbysuckeddowna littlemoreofhisdrink,never takinghiseyesoffBen.“What’ssomethingelseyouliketodoasmuchasmakingmusic?”

BenglancedoveratHallie.“Hangingoutwiththisfamily.”Ben’sparentshadbeenolderwhenhewasborn,andbythetimehewasoldenoughtotravelaround, theyweren’t able to keep up, so he’d spentmost of his dayswithHallieandherfamily.HisparentshadbeengratefultoMamafortakinghiminandallowinghimtotravelwiththem.

Maggieputherhandtoherheart.“Ben,thefamilyisluckytohaveyouinit.”

“Ohmygoodness!”Afamiliarsugar-sweetvoicesailedovertotheirtable.Ashley walked toward them, smiling, her white and red floral sundressshowingoffhertan.Herblondehairwaspulledlooselyintoaponytailwith

little wisps falling around her face, complementing her blue eyes, whichseemed sad today, despite her pleasant demeanor. She was one of thosepeople who seemed to have no idea how pretty she was; her beauty waseffortless.Andshewasasniceinsideasshewasout.ShelookedoveratBenwith unsaidwords, but she didn’t break thatwelcoming smile of hers. “HiHallie!”

HalliewasgenuinelyhappytorunintoAshley.She’dbeenabletospendtimewithAshleyonafewdifferentoccasions,andthemoretheygottoknoweachother,themoretheyrealizedtheirsimilarities.

“Hi, I’m glad we saw you!” Hallie said. “We should have coffeesometime.Howlongareyouhere?”

“Acoupleofweeks.”Shelookedunsure.HergazeflutteredbackovertoBen.

Benwassilent,buthisexpressionwaskind.Hehadonearmproppeduponthebackofhischair,hisconcentrationonAshley.

“Youcaneatwithusnow,ifyou’dlike,Ashley,”Mamaoffered.“I’msureBenwould appreciate having you join us for lunch. He’s too polite to asksincehe’sherewithallofus,sowe’lldoitforhim.”

“Oh, I can’t. I’m sorry. I’m here picking up a to-go order for mygrandparents. Mimi’s bridge club is playing today and they’ve orderedeveryonelunch.Butmaybeanothertime.”

“I’llgetWestobringitoutforyou,”Maggiesaid.“Followmeuptothebar.”

“She’ssuchanicegirl,Ben,”MamasaidwhenAshleywasoutofearshot.

“Yes,she is,”Bensaid.Hewasquieter thanusual inAshley’spresence.Hislightheartednessandfondnessdidn’tcomethroughthewaytheydidwhenheandHallieweretogether,andHallierealizedthatshehadn’teverseenthatlevelofaffectionbetweenBenandAshley.Theyseemedlikethebestcoupleonpaper,butsometimesthingsjustweren’tmeanttobe.

Wescameoutwithcarrierbagsfulloffood,andhandedthemtoAshley.

Ben stood up immediately, going over to them. “Letme help you,” hesaid,takingthebags.

When he’d left,Mama addressed the rest of them. “I feel bad that he’ssettinghisownlifeasidetohelpus.PleasemakesureAshleycomesover.It’stheleastwecandoaftereverythinghe’sdone.”

“Iwill,”Halliesaid.Whydideverythingfeel like itwaschangingallatonce?

TWELVE

The water was restless today, crashing as angrily as the small gulf wavescouldmuster, the redwarning flags flappingwildly on the public beaches.Therewasthepossibilityofathunderstorm,accordingtotheweatherreport,butsofarthesunwasstillshining.BenandHalliewalkedaheadoftheothersas theymade theirway toCoastalLensGallery, thesunshineglaringoff itsshinynewsign.

“I’m excited to seewhat they have,”Hallie said. “If there’smoreworklike the photograph in Wes and Maggie’s, I might have to break out mywallet.”

Benseemedtoenjoyherexcitement.“Isyourcamerainyourhandbag?”

“No,” she said. “Wes said theowner is a trainedphotographer, an artistlikehim.Thelastthingtheywouldwanttoseeismyunskilledphotography.”

“Youdon’tgiveyourselfenoughcredit.”

“I’mself-taught.”

“SowasvanGogh.”

Hallielaughed.

“What’ssofunnyupthere?”Mamacalledfrombehind.

“Ben’scomparingmetovanGogh,”Halliesaidoverhershoulder.Mamalaughed,andHalliewasgladsomeonehadsenseenoughtofinditfunny.

Theyreachedathickmapledoorwithbeveledglasspanes.

Thegallerywasinanoldhousethathadbeenconvertedintoabusiness.

Against its blue clapboard siding, an “Open” sign hung beside a smallemblemtotherightofthedoor,withthenameofthegalleryinbrightredandyellow streaks of paint. Ben opened the door and let Hallie enter as hermotherandRobbycaughtup,meetingthemontheporch.

Thetimewornwoodenfloorscreakedunderneaththeirfeetastheyenteredthespace.Therewerevacationersbrowsinginside, talkingquietlyabout thedifferent pieces. Thewalls had a fresh coat ofwhite paint to showcase themodestblackframesthatallowedthephotographytospeakforitself.

It was like walking into heaven for Hallie, every single shot evokingemotion and a barrage of questions as to the technique. She’d never seenangleslikethose,orthewaythecolorsofordinarythingsblendedtomakeabrand-new, almost abstract image. It was right up her alley—an alley shenever realized she had. She’d always liked to take photographs, but untilshe’d seen thesepictures, her techniquehadbeen a shot in thedark.Hallietwistedherheadtothesidetodeterminehowthephotographerhadcapturedonephoto inparticular.Notonlydidshesee thephotographyitself,butshehadamillion ideasofwhere toputeachpiece,what toplacearoundit;sheimagineddifferentlocationsthatwouldhighlightthecolors.

“I’mgoingtotakeRobbytotheshopnextdoorforalookaroundatthetoys,”Mama said intoHallie’s ear. “Hemight be a bit too restless in here.Theyalllookexpensive…”ThenshewavedtoBenandHallieandwentbackthroughthefrontdoor.

Ben stood beside Hallie, curious and interested himself by the photos.Whilehewasn’taphotographer,he’dalwaysappreciatedHallie’sworkandhe’dbeensupportiveofit.Halliewassotakenwiththeimages,asshemovedfromonetothenext, thatshebarelynoticedthefactthatsomeonenewwasstandingintheentrywaywiththem.

“Doyoulikewhatyousee?”

Shetorehereyesawayfromashotofamint-flavoredicecreamconethatalmost took on the same quality as the sand and water outside. It wasincredible.Butwhatwasevenmoresurprisingthanthatwasthepersonwhowasstandingbeforeher.

“Gavin?”

“Hi.”Hewasdrinkingher in, clear delightonhis face at seeingher. “Itookthatonerightoutside.”Hepointedtotheicecreamcone.

“Theseareyours?”Shegesturedtowardtheshotonthewall.

“Yep.”

“Doyoutwoknoweachother?”Benasked,hiscuriosityclearlygrowingtoastronomicallevelsashelookedbetweenthetwoofthem.

“Ah,yes,”Gavinsaid,“wemetatStarlightCottage.I’mdoingsometrimpaintingforHankEubanks.”

“Why are you painting houses?” Hallie asked, completely floored thatsomeonewiththisamountoftalentwouldbeslappingbluepaintontothetrimatthecottage.

“Funny story.” Gavin led the way into the house, each room’s artworkdesigned to have its own personality—some were more masculine, whileothers were lighter and softer in tone and color. “Your uncle called herebecause apparently I’m the only one in town that comes up on an onlinesearchfortheword‘painter’,andhespecificallywantedsomeonenewtothearea.”

“Newtothearea?”

“Imovedherejustafewmonthsago.”

Then it hit Hallie. She knew how Uncle Hank thought, and she waswillingtobetthathewouldonlyletsomeoneontothepropertywhocouldn’tpossibly be the trespasser.While she’d already decided thatGavinwas tookindtobelurkinginbushes,thismadeherfeelconsiderablybetter.Although,whenshelookedatBen,hewaseyeingGavinsuspiciously.

GavinpointedhertowardaroomtotherightandHalliegasped.

“Youpainttoo?”sheasked.

“Yes.”

Large canvases covered the walls, all of them abstract but with actual

imageshiddeninthem,justlikehisphotographs.

“Theseareabsolutelystunning.”

“Thanks.”

“Thephotosyoutakelooklikethey’reshotinnaturallight.Youplaywiththatsamecolorinthesepaintings.”

“That’sright,”hesaid,smilingather,thosegreeneyesonher.

“I’d like tohavea longconversationabout the lightingandyouruseofangles,butIdon’twanttomonopolizeallyourtime.Iknowyou’reworking.”

“Wecanchataboutittonightthen.”

AnewinterestwashedoverBen’sface.“Tonight?”heasked.

Gavin explained, “We’re going out tonight.” Just then, a woman askedhimaquestionandhepolitelymovedtowardhertoanswer.

Ben’sattentionturnedentirelytoHallie,allthosethoughtsfillinghiseyes,and she knew that hewas getting overprotective like he didwhenever shedated someone new. He didn’t have to. She was a grown woman, fullycapableoftakingcareofherself.Butshecouldunderstandhisconcern,giventhe fact that they still hadn’t found who was peeking in on the StarlightEstate.

“We’regoingoutasfriends,”sheaddedinawhisper.Butitdidn’tseemtochangeanythingintheexpressiononBen’sface.Heswiveledaroundtolookatoneofthepaintings,andshewonderedwhathewasn’tsaying.

When Gavin returned, he was clearly trying to figure out the dynamicbetween Hallie and Ben, and she knew that she’d have to explain theirrelationshiptohimsoonerratherthanlater.

One thingwas for sure: she’d learned fromJeff that anyonewhodidn’tlikeBenwasn’tworthhertime.

Halliestoodin thebathroomatStarlightCottage,wearingherfavoritebabyblue sundress, the strappy sandals with the wedge heels, and her silver

teardropearringsasshecombedherhairinthemirror.Thesummersunhadlacedtinygoldstrandsthroughherchestnuthair.

“Whereishetakingyou?”Benasked.Hewassittingontheedgeofthetubwithabagofchipsinhishandwhileshefinishedherhair.Hepoppedoneofthechipsintohismouthandcrunchedonit.

“I’mnot sure.”Sheappliedherbarely there lipgloss.WhenBendidn’tsayanything,shelookedoverathimandsawhewasstaringather.“What?”

“Youdon’t even knowhim.And you’re going somewherewith him byyourself.Witheverythinggoingonwithstrangersontheproperty,shouldn’theatleasttellyouwhereyou’regoing?Howdoyouknowhe’sagoodguy?”

“You’reworryingunnecessarily.Ihavemycellphone,it’sfullycharged.And everyone knows who Gavin is—he owns a gallery in town. He’s notsomeguyIpickedupoffthestreet.”

Benwasquiet.

Hisbehaviorwasupsettingher,andnowshehadastrangefeelingaboutgoingoutwithGavin, even just as friends.She suddenlywanted to changeintoherpajamasandcurluponthesofawithBen.Maybeitwasbecauseheremotionswere right on the surfacewith everything going on, or perhaps itwasherowninsecuritiesafterherbreakup.Butshehadtobestrongandmoveforward.NothingwouldchangeifshestayedinwithBentonight.

“I’m a grownwoman and it’s just an evening out,” she said, her voicebreaking,causinghimtofocusonher,hishandstillinginthebagofchips.Hepulledhisfingersoutofthebagandsetthechipsonthetub.“It’sgoingtobea perfectly wonderful night—it’s something positive, which has rarelyhappenedtomeinthelastfewmonths.I’llbejustfine.”

Hestoodup, thoseeyesfloodedwithunsaid thoughts.“Ididn’tmeantoupsetyou.It’sjustanaturalreaction.”

“WhyisitnaturaltomakemefeellikeIhavetobeafraid?”

“Youdon’thavetobeafraidofthem.”Helookedasthoughthewordshadcome out against his will, intensity engulfing his face. He turned awayquicklyandpickedupthebagofchips.

Whatdidhemeanbythat?Nowhewasn’tmakinganysense.

“Hallie?”Sydneycametothedoor.ShepeeredoverHallie’sheadatBen,probablywonderingwhattheyweretalkingabout.“Gavinjustdroveup.I’lllethimin.”

Benranhishandsthroughhishair,frustrated.

“Ben,”shestarted,buthestoppedher.

“It’sfine,”hesaidcalmly.“Enjoyyournight.”Hekissedheronthecheekandheadedout.Halliefollowedhim.

BenwalkedpastGavin andgreetedhimpolitelybefore leaving throughthe door. She watched him make his way to the guesthouse, wishing shecould’vehadmoretimetodiscusswhatwasbotheringhimbeforegoingout.

“You okay?”Gavin asked.He slipped his hands into the pockets of hisjeans.Hewascasual,but it lookedas thoughhe’dputa littlework intohisappearance,hishaircombed,hisfaceclean-shaven.

“Yes.Sorry,”shesaid,puttingonahappyface.

“Youlooknice.”

“Thankyou.”

“You’reforgettingsomething,”hesaid,hiseyesonherhands.

“What’sthat?”

“Your camera. You’ll definitely need it tonight. When I called a fewminutesago,yourunclesuggestedIlookatsomeofyourphotos.”

“Ohmygoodness,hetoldyou?”shesaid,embarrassed.

Sydneyranoffdownthehallwayandreturnedwiththecamera,passingittoHallie.

“Youdon’thavetoletmeseeyourphotosifyoudon’twantto,”hesaid.“Butyoudohavetobringyourcamera.I’vegotafewthingsinmindtoshowyou tonight that look best through its lens.” He ushered her forward andwaved to Sydney,who handedHallie her handbag on theirway out of thecottage.

“Whatelsedidmyuncletellyou?”sheaskedasheopenedthedoortohistruck,thecoolleatheronherlegsanimmediaterelieffromtheheatoutside.Sheheldhercameraandherhandbaginherlap.

“Notmuch.Why?Istheremoretoknow?”

“Idon’tthinkso.Howaboutyou?There’smoretoknow,forsure.Whereyou’refrom.Whyyoumovedhere.Whyyoudecidedtoopenthegallery…”

Hetookinadeepbreath,hiseyebrowsrising.“Wow.Eachoneof thosemighttakemeallnighttoexplain.Howlonghaveyougot?”

Eventhoughitseemed,byhisreaction,tobearangeofheavytopicsforhim, itwas as if hewanted to tell her, and shewas interested. “I’vegot aslongasittakes.”

Withagrin,Gavinstartedthetruckandheadeddownthelongdrivetothestreet.

THIRTEEN

Halliecouldn’thelpbutconsiderBen’sconcernasGavindrovethemoutoftown,downawindingroadlinedwithtrees.Ithadstartedtogetdarkandshehadno ideawhereshewas.Shesneakedapeekathercellphoneand therewas no service,making her suddenly nervous. “Where arewe going?” sheasked.

“To dinner.” Gavin looked over at her, and seemed to guess her slightapprehension.Headded,“Atmyhouse.It’soutsideoftownbecauseIliketohave the quiet to paint and edit my photographs. I’mmost creative in thesilence.”

Hepulled up a longgravel drive and came to a stop in front of a fullyrestored two-story colonial home. It had white siding and midnight blackwooden shutters, large iron hinges holding them in place. A front porchwrapped around three sides of it, shaded by towering oak treeswith limbscoveredinmoss.

“Allthisforjustyou?”sheasked.

“Not originally, but now it is.” Gavin got out of the truck and walkedaroundtoopenherdoor.“Watchyourstep.”Heheldouthishandtosteadyherasshetrodontheunevenstonesofthedrive.

“This is incredible.” Hallie tilted her head up to view the three brickchimneysthatprotrudedfromtheslateroof.

“Thankyou,”hesaid,asheletgoofher.

“Doyouownthis?”

“I’ve had it for awhile but just now finished it. The renovations got…delayed.”Heofferedashakysmileandthenopenedthefrontdoor.

The outside was traditional but the inside was filled with modernamenities.Gavin clicked on the lights, illuminating the roomwith recessedlighting nestled in the raised ceilings. It gave off awarm glow against thewhiteinterior.Heturnedonafewmorerusticlightfixturesthatofferedalaidback, traditional feel. They walked toward the kitchen along soft maple-glazedhardwoodsaswideastheplanksofaship,leadingtoastonefireplacethattookuptheentirewallofthelivingarea,which,alongwiththekitchen,wasopen towhere theywerestanding.Noneof thatcompared,however, tothesmellofdinnerwaftingtowardher.

“Whatareyoucooking?”sheasked.

“I’m not cooking anything,” he said. “I have a housekeeper namedGeraldine.She’sthebestcookI’veevermet—simplyamazing.Andshehasthiswayofdrawingmeinandmakingmetalk.IletitslipthatI’daskedyouout,andbeforeIcouldexplainthatwe’ddecidedtosimplymeetasfriends,sheinsistedshecookthisromanticfeastforus.Sheputitintheovenbeforesheleft.”

“That’ssweet.”

Gavin went over to a wine fridge and opened the glass door. “I haveseveraltypesofwine…”Hepulledthebottlesfrominsideandsetthemonthecounter,shuttingthedoor.“Andofcourse,Ialsohavethetypical:lemonade,water,icedtea…”

“I’llhaveaglassofwhite,thankyou,”shesaid,settingherhandbagandcameradownononeofthebarstools.“Youjustmovedhere?”sheasked.

“Yep. I’moriginally fromNorthCarolina, but Iwanted a new start andlesssnow…”Hepoppedthecorkoutofthebottleandpouredtwoglasses.

“Isthelackofsnowtheonlythingthatbroughtyouhere?”

Hehandedheraglass.“Forme,I’mmostcreativewhenI’maroundlight,andNorthCarolinahadbecomeasortofdarkplace.”Hestaredintohereyeskindly,asifhewashopingshe’daskhimtoelaborate,butatthesametimehe

seemednervoustosaymore.Heturnedawayandcheckedtheoven.

“Howso?”Throughthewindow,shecaughtsightoffirefliesinthebluelight that remained from the last strip of sun on the horizon behind all thetrees,butshecouldn’tgetagoodviewof themfromwhereshewassitting.Gavinstartedtotalk,pullingherfocusbacktohim.

“I dated someone for a very long time. Her name was Gwen.” Thewoman’snamecameoutasifhe’dhadtoworktoactuallysayit.“Shehadaheartdefect,anditwentundetecteduntilitwastoolate.Shediedtwoyearsago.Thiswasgoingtobeourhome,butGwennevergottoseeit.”

“Oh,I’msosorry.”

“Like I said earlier.” He tried to smile, talking on an exhale. “I’m notpracticedatthissortofthing.Ididn’twanttobringyourspiritsdownwithasad story, but it’smy story, so I figured that if I want to have any sort offriendshipwithyou,Ishouldgetitoutthere.Itmighthelpyouunderstandmealittlemore.”

Theoventimerwentoff,andhegrabbedapotholdertopullagloriouslyrichseafoodcasseroleoutoftheoven.Hesetitonatrivetnexttothestove.

“I’veonlytoldoneotherpersoninFireflyBeachmystory,andthat’syouruncle.He and I related to each other on our shared experiences. It’s funnyhow it happened. He sounded so sad on the phonewhen he called for thequote topaint the trim that, even though Idon’tusuallypainthouses, I feltcompelledtoatleastgivehimmytimeandgoouttoseetheproject.Wespenthoursonhisporch. I toldhimIwasnewhereand then itall justcameout,andwebothsatmisty-eyedforawhile.Itookthejob.Icouldn’ttellhimno.”

Halliefoundherselfleaningonthebar,herhandinherchin,listeningtohim.How incrediblymoving thatheandUncleHankwere there to supporteachother.Andwhatasweetgesture to takeon the jobeven thoughGavinclearlyhadotherresponsibilities.

“WhenIfirstmetyouruncle,andexplainedthatIwasadifferentkindofpainterthanwhathewaslookingforandIactuallyownedagallery,wegottotalkingaboutthedifferentmediaIuse,andmyphotography.Hetoldmethat

he thought you should be a photographer,” Gavin said, leaving the dish tocoolandreturningtohisglassofwine.

“MyfamilyseemstothinkIcouldbe,butI’veneverpursuedit.”Shefeltlessintimidatedbyhimnow,andfounditeasytotalktohim.

“Mm.” Gavin picked up her glass, holding both of them. “Grab yourcameraandcomewithme.”

Hewalkedover toa small tablewherehisowncamerawas sitting, andthenopened thebackdoor.As if thehousewasn’tmagnificent enough, thebackgardenswereunquestionablythemostbeautifulsoutherngardensshe’dever seen,with rowsofhedges,brightgreengrass, and flowers everywhereshelooked,allunderacanopyoftrees.Shecouldhardlyseeitallintheneardark, and could only imagine how expansive theywere in the light of day.SheturnedaroundtofindGavin;hewasatastonefirepitinthecenterofthepatio,throwingsmalllogsintoit.Hegrabbedsomematchesthatweresittingontheledgeandlitthelogs,atinyblueflickereruptingintoadancingorangeflame.Withalighttug,hepulledachairovertothefireandmovedHallie’sglassfromtheedgeofthepittothewidewoodenarmofthechair.

“Letmeknowifitgetstoohotforyou,”hesaid.

Thecoastalwindkepttheintensityoftheheatatbayenoughtoenjoythefire.

“Sohaveyou alwaysowned agallery?”Hallie asked, takinga seat, thecoolglassinherhandrefreshingandlight,helpinghertorelax.

“No. I was in medical sales before this.” He leaned against the broadstonesof the firepit, theedgeof it so far from thecenterof the fire that itcould serve as a table. “I always tookpictures, though.Evenwhen I didn’thaveacamera.Irememberthingsinmomentsandimages,likethewayyourhandrestedonyourheartwhenIstartledyouthefirsttimewemet.”

Hallienoddedhappily,understandingexactlywhathemeant,delightedtoknowshewasn’ttheonlyonewhodidthat.Theideaofhowsherememberedthingshadn’toccurredtoherbefore.

“You’re so talented,” she said. “I’m surprised you ever chose to do

somethingotherthantakepicturesforaliving.”

“Iwantedaplanformy life. Iwanted toknowwhere themoneywouldcomefromsothatIcouldmakeagoodlivingtoraiseafamilyoneday.Andthen…everythingwentwrong.AfterGwen…”Heshiftedalittle,pickinguphisglass.“Istoppedworryingsomuch.”Hetookalongdrinkandthensaid,hisfacebrightening,“Isentoffafewofmyphotographstosomemagazinesandwassurprisedtofindtheyshowedinterestinthem.Afterthat,Ifinishedtherenovationsonthehouse,quitmyjob,lefthome,andopenedthegallery.”

“Youwereverybravetodoallthat,”shesaid.

Hechuckled.“FunnythingisthatIdiditallnotoutofbravery,butoutoffear. Fear that I wouldn’t be able to move forward if I didn’t completelychangemylife,fearthatImayneverstophurtingifIhadtowakeupinthesamehouseweshared,fearthatI’dfindmyselfanoldman,wonderingwhatI’ddonewithmylife.”

HiscommentsmadeHalliethinkofAuntClara’slist.Couldthisbewhyshe’dsuggestedit?WasshehopingforsomethingdifferentforHallie,anewstarttopreventHalliefromhavingregrets?

Gavinstoodandbroughthiscameratohisface,leaningover,tippingthelensupatanunusualangle.Halliewatchedhim,andshecouldseewherehewasgoingwithit.Hepointeditatthefire,twistedthefocus,andsnappedaphoto.

“Let me see,” she said, feeling more relaxed after he’d shared such aheartfeltstory,almosteagertoviewhisperspective.

“Wait.”Hekepthiscameraclosetohim.“Youtakeashot.”

“What?”

“Iwanttoseethetechniqueyouuse.”

Even though she felt comfortable talking to him about it, Hallie wasfrozen in place. Shewasn’t surewhy, but shewas afraid. She’d never hadanother person outside her family judge her abilities before. Regardless ofhowhe’dgottothispoint,shewascompetingwithapro,anditwasmakinghertoonervoustothinkthroughhowshewantedtotakethepicture.

Gavintookastepnearertoher,theskinbetweenhiseyeswrinklingwithconcern.“Ionlywanttoseeyourmethodoutofcuriosity.Yousee, thewaywedecipher lightandangles isasuniqueasweare—no twophotographersviewitthesameway.”

“Buthowothersperceiveourviewiswhatsetsthebestofthebestapartfrom the average person,” she challenged, not knowing where all of thisfeeling was coming from. She hadn’t ever thought about any of this, butsomehow she had opinions regarding photography methods, and herstatement surprised her. Sure, she’d taken pictures growing up, but puttingrules around it, creating a technique that was uniquely hers—she’d neverconsidereditbefore.

“Ah,butwhatifthe‘bestofthebest,’asyousay,issimplyanopinionaswell?Whatifit’sjustamatterofpeopleconnectingwithyourinterpretationof an image?”He tookanother stepnearer, puttinghis face intoher lineofvision.“I’mnot judging it. I justwant toseewhatyousee,”hesaidgently.Gavinsethiscameradownonthechairandthencameupbehindher,leavingamplespacebetweenthem.“Closeyoureyes.”

Insteadsheturnedherheadtomakeeyecontact,notsureofhismotives.

He smiled hesitantly. “Hold your camera in both hands and close youreyes—gowithmeonthis.”

Halliedidasshewastold,realizinghewasjustgettingoutofherview.

“Locate the heat from the fire on your skin,” he said from behind her.“Takeinthescentoftheburningembers.”

She inhaled deeply, the smell of summer and woods and fire… andGavin’scologne—notesoflimeandwhitepepper—consumingher.

“What do you want people to feel from this shot? Fear? Love? Fun?What?”

“Serenity.”

Hesteppedawayandsheopenedhereyeswithhismovement.

“Nowlookatthefirethroughyourlens.Givemeasereneshotofit.”

Hallieliftedthecameratohereyeandsuddenly,itallbecamecleartoher.Sheneededapictureofthegardens.Thefirewasonlyadetail,oneelementintheshot.Shewanted tocapture thequietof the trees, the lowlight, the firejustoffcenter,theemptychairthatwaswaitingforsomeonetositinit.Shenoticed the fireflies in the distance again, and adjusted her focus toincorporatethem.Then,shemovedaroundthefireuntilshehadjusttherightanglewiththechair,thevisualaspectsofthecompositionworkinglikemusicinhermind—thesamewayBendescribedhowittakesalltheinstrumentsinharmonytomakeasong.Shehadtomove,toplayherowninstrument,untilalltheelementsinviewweresinging.Thenshesnappedashot.

Gavin stepped back over and looked down at her screen. “Wow.That’samazing.”

It was as if she’d never understood her camera before. She wanted tospendeveryminutefromhereontakingmorephotosjustlikethatone.Inthatmoment, something changed inside her creatively, and it was as if all thescatteredpiecesofwhoshewasweresharpeningandcomingtogethertogivehermeaning.Halliehadbeenright:shewasn’taphotographer.Notuntilthisminute.AuntClarahadjustseenherpotentialbeforeshehad.

“Yourdepthoffieldisspoton.Ilovehowthetreesmakeanaturalframeat the edges. It’s almost geometrical.The front lighting you chosewith thediffractionofthegardensthereisincredible.”Hetappedthescreen.Thenhetiltedthecamerabacktoher.“Lookatthecolorsnow,ratherthantheactualphotoitself.Whatcolorsarecapturedinyourshot?”

“Eventhoughthegardensaregreen,thelownaturallightcausesthemtobealmostadenimcolor…Andthefirehasagoldtonethatcomplementsthedarkbrownofthefirepitandthewoodenchair.So,blue,gold,andbrown.”

“Howwouldyoumatandframeblue,gold,andbrown?”

“Um…Adarktan-coloredmat?Maybewithsometexture—likeaburlap.Thetexturewouldadddepthtothesimplicityoftheshot.”Shelookedupathim for encouragement, and to see if he agreedwithwhat she said, andheseemedactuallyinterested,asifhedidn’thaveanopinionhimself,asifshewere the expert, telling him.She continued, “Andbecause the shadows are

nearlyblack,theframeshouldbeblack.Asimpleblackframetobalancethetexture of thematting. Itwould be perfect pairedwith awhite canvas sofawithburlapthrowpillowsinvariousshades,andmaybealightbluesculpture—somethingnaturallikeatreeoravine—onatablenearby…”

Hewas smiling, a bright happygrin. “You,mydear, are a natural.”Helaughedoutloud.“Comeinside.Let’shavedinnerandthenwe’lluploadyourshottomycomputer.I’llshowyouhowyoucaneditittoadjustforcrispnessandcolorharmony.”

Hallie and Gavin had talked about photography so much over dinner thatshe’dbarely realizedwhen she’d finishedher food, theplates sittingemptyfor hourswhile they discussed different views and times of day, how theirexperiences shaped their photography, and the energy that consumed themwhentheywereabletofindtheirshotofthefirepit.Shecouldn’tstoptalkingabout it,askingquestions,watchingeverythinghedid.TheycontinuedtheirdiscussionsallthewaybacktoStarlight.Inherentirelife,she’dneverfeltsoartistic. Photographywas like this giant open space just waiting for her tofigureouthowtofillitwithcolorsandfurnitureandfabrics,andshehadn’tgraspeduntiltonighthowbadlysheneededtoputherselfinthatspace.

Gavinwasanendlessstreamofknowledge,hisideasblowingherawayatevery turn. They’d spent the last two hours after dinner tweaking andchangingthephoto,whichshe’dneverdonebeforeandfoundtobeextremelyfulfilling artistically. The editing might even have been her favorite part.Gavintoldherthathe’dhelpherpurchaseandinstallthesoftwareifsheeverwantedhimto,andshetoldhimsheplannedtobuyitassoonasshecould.

HalliewavedgoodbyetoGavinashepulledoutthedrive.Shewaswiredfromtheexcitement.Shecouldn’tpossiblyshutherselfup inherroom,andeveryonewasprobablyasleep.Really,shewasmakingexcusesforwhyshewantedtosharethisnewexhilarationshewasfeelingwithonepersonandonepersononly.ShenoticedBen’slightwasonintheguesthouse.Hallienearlyskippeduptothedoorandslidherkeyintothelock.

Benwason thesofawearinghisoversizedheadphones,hiscomputer inhislap,concentrationetchedonhisface,withonehandonthekeyboardandtheotherhandrestingonBeau.Hehadn’theardhercomein,andwhenBenwasn’tconcerned,neitherwasBeau,whoonlymovedhiseyestolookatherso hewouldn’t disturb Ben’s gentle rubbing on his side.With a silly grin,HalliebuttedintoBen’slineofvision,makinghimjump.Beaufinallyliftedhishead.

Bengaveheracrookedsmile.“Hey,”hesaid,takingoffhisheadphones.“Youlooklikeyouhadagoodnight.”

Halliedroppeddownnexttohim.

“Howmuchwinedidyouhave?”Hechuckledatthesightofher.

“I’mnotdrunk!Well,I’mdrunkonelation.”

Ben’sfacesoberedbuthewasclearlytryingtomaintainapleasantlook.“DidyouhavefunwithGavin?”

“Ihadthetimeofmylife!”

He took in a deep breath and let it out quietly, forcing his smilewider,thoseever-presentthoughtsfillinghiseyes.“That’sgreat!”

Hallie told him all about what Gavin had taught her, about editing herphoto, and how she’d never known that therewas anythingmore than justsnapping a shot. She was overwhelmed by the presentation of it, by theexcitementofeditingandmakingtheimageuniquelybeautiful.Butitdidn’tstopthere.Shecouldenvisionanentirerangeofdesignproductstogowithit,allofthemasuniqueasthephotoitself.Shecontinuedonuntilsherealizedshe’d been talking a mile a minute, but Ben was lost in her explanation,listeningtoeveryword.

“I’vebeentellingyouforyearsthatthislineofworksuitedyou.”

“YoualwayslikeeverythingIdo,soIthoughtyouwerejustbeingnice.”

Hissmilecontortedtoamoreseriousexpression.“Iwishyouwouldtrustme sometimes.” He moved his computer to the coffee table and set hisheadphonesdownbeside it, facingher. “I like everythingyoudobecause I

truly believe in you. You don’t do things that are mediocre, Hallie. Iunderstandthatcreativeworld—Ithinkthat’swhathasdrawnmetoyousincewe were kids. I know talent when I see it. I’ve bet my adult life on thatability.”

Onceagain,shehadn’tlistenedtoBenwhensheshould’ve.

“But regardless of whether you believed me or not,” he said, “you’vefinally foundyourpassion—Ican tellbecause it’s right there inyoureyes.”Hestoodup.“Weshouldcelebrate.Iwassavingit,buttonight’simportant.Ihavechampagneinthefridge.”

Hallie’seyesgrewround.“Youdo?Why?”

“Iwasgoingtobringitoutonceyou’dcompletedallthethingsonyourlist.”

Shelaughed.“HowdoyouknowI’mgoingtocompletethelist?”

“OnceIsawyoutryingtomakeasandcastle,Iknew.You’llgetitdone.”Hewentaroundthebarandopenedtherefrigerator.

“Ben,”Halliesaid,gettingupfromthesofaandfollowinghimover,hisunwaveringfaithinherabilitiestroublingher.Whatifshecouldn’tliveuptohisopinionofher?“I’mgladyoubelieveinme,butbuildingasandcastleandfinding excitement in photography doesn’t mean I’ll finish that list. I’vedecided to try—for Aunt Clara—but some of her demands are downrightimpossible.”

Ben set two flutesonto the counter andunwound the casing around thebottle. “Nothing’s impossible.” He pressed against the exposed cork andpointeditawayfromthemintothelivingarea.Itwouldn’tbudge.Bengrittedhisteethandadjustedhisthumbsonit.“Nothing’simpossibleexceptgettingthiscorkoutofthebottle.”Helaughed,clearlystrainingagainstit.Hesetitdownandrestedhisfingersaminute.

“Letmetry.”Halliegrabbedthebottlebytheneckandpushedagainstthecorkuntilherfingersweresore,thethingnotmoving.

Benwrapped his arms around her, putting his thumbs outsidehers.Hisbreathonherneck,hesaid,“Onthecountofthree,push.Ready?”

She looked back and nodded, succeeding only in taking in the scent ofhim. Itwas thesmellofhome,ofeverythingshe’deverknown.SheclosedhereyeslikeGavinhadtaughtherandbreathedinasBencounted,wonderingwhat shewas trying to capture in thismoment…Her inner voice told her.Perfection.

“Youdidn’tpush!”hesaid,hislaughterpullingheroutofherthoughts.

Hallielookeddown,noticinghowmasculinehisarmswere,howdifferentthey’dbecomefromtheyearswhenhe’dtaughthertofishaskids.Thathadbeenthelasttimehe’dhadhisarmsaroundherlikethis.Shehadn’tnoticeditat all then, but now they provided security, calm, a sense of overwhelmingneedforhimtoneverletgo.Sheblinkedoverandover,wonderingifalltheromanticizingofthephotographyshotstonighthadmadeheroverlyeuphoricorsomething.ItwasBen.Shecouldn’tbehavingthesethoughtsaboutBen…Hewasofflimitsinsomanyways.

“Tryagain.Ready?One,two,three!”

She pressed against the cork with him, her thumbs straining, and thenPOP!Thecork sailedacross the room, landingon the rug.Beauwentoverand inspected it, the smellof the liquidmakinghimsneeze.But shehardlyprocessed it before champagne erupted from the bottle like a sparklingvolcano,angrilyfizzingandbubblingdowntheirhands,causinghertosqueal.Hallie jumpedout ofBen’s armsashemoved thebottle to the counter.Hegrabbedthekitchentowelforher.

“It’salloveryourarms,”hesaid,smiling.

“It’severywhere.”

“Hangon.Here,it’sonyourneck.”

Heputthetowelagainstthebareskinofhernecktowipeofftheliquid,his hands slowing when his fingertips came in contact with her skin, thelaughter sliding off his face. His touchwasn’t anything like the Ben she’dknown,theboywho’dbeenapartofherchildhood.Hislightcaresswasthatofaman,andoverwhelminglymorethanjusthavinghisarmsaroundher,shetrulyfeltwhohewasnow.She imaginedhis fingers trailingdownherskin,

hismouthatherneck…Tryingtogetthepictureoutofhermind,shefocusedonhis face, findinghis lipsas theymoved justslightlywithhisbreath,andsuddenly all those thoughts she’d seen in his eyes but didn’t understandbecame clear. Her skin prickled with the realization that, not only did sheunderstandhisthoughts,butshenowfeltthesameway.

And it terrified her.What was this she was feeling? Their moments ofcloseness flashed like a slideshow inhermindand she started towonder ifsheneededBen’sproximityinherlifebecauseshewasinlovewithhim.Shecouldn’t live without him. Was that what this was? There were so manyreasonsthiscouldn’tbehappening.

He offered her the towel, their hands touching again as she took it.Hegentlycaressedherfingerswithhisandhisgazeseemedtobeaskingher ifthey shouldmove into thisnew realm.Herbreathingwas shallowand fast,her pulse racing. Ben had touched her hundreds of times. He’d kissed hercheek,rubbedhershoulders,takenherhand…Noneofitfeltlikethis.He’dmadeherfeeldesirable.Sheswallowed,thetowelwoventhroughherfingers,notwanting tomoveforfearshe’derase the trailalongherskinwhereBenhadawakenedhernerves.

Iftheyallowedthemselvestogoanyfurtherandthingswentwrong,shestoodtoloseherbestfriend.Andthenifthingswentright…She’dneverbeabletoofferhimahappylife.Hedeservedmorethanshecouldgivehim.Hedidn’t know… Tears welled up in her eyes, and she didn’t have to sayanythingforhimtounderstandthatshewasn’tgoingtodothis.

Benturnedaway,pullingapapertowelfromtherollandwipingdownthecounter where the champagne had splashed as if nothing had happened,leavinghershockedandconfused.

Hallie jumped when he opened the trashcan to throw the paper towelaway. He ripped off another and started to wipe the spill on the floor, hisstrokeshardandfastasifhewereupsetwithhimself.

Oncehe’dtakencareofthemess,Benslippedhishandsintohispockets.“All clean,” he said, producing a smile. He grabbed the flutes again andhandedonetoher.“Weshoulddrink,”hesaid.Hedidn’thavetosayaword

forhertoknowthatifshenevermentionedthis,itwouldbeforeverburiedintheirpastsandhewouldn’tputherinthatpositionagain.

“Tofindingthethingsinlifethatbringyoujoy,”hesaid,lookingdejectedandunlikehimself.Heliftedhisglass.He’dsaidthewords,buttherewassomuchmorebehindthem.

Sheraisedherglassandtouchedittohis.

FOURTEEN

“Good grief, Hallie.” Mama’s voice meandered through Hallie’sconsciousness as a streak of light pierced the back of her closed eyelids,making her head ache. “Did you drink all this?” Another vibrating soundrattled in her earswhenMama tugged a second shade to allow the light tofilterin.Sheletitgo,thewidevinylcoilingaroundtherolleratthetopofthewindow.

Hallie opened her eyes, the summer sun blinding her. She squintedthrough it to see a blurry image of Mama holding the empty bottle ofchampagnefromlastnight.Afterthefirstglass,HalliehadtoldBenthatshewas really tired, andhe’dcorked thebottle and toldher to take itwithher.She still rememberedhis eyeswhenhe toldhergoodnight—theysaidmorethantheyeverhad,ormaybeitwasjustthatshecouldfinallyreadhim.SherolledoverandputherfaceinthelumpoffeathersAuntClarahadcalledapillow when she’d insisted they buy them, because the quality of comfortequaledthedesign.

“Ineedtotalktoyoubeforeweallgodownforbreakfast,”Mamasaid.

Halliesatupandstifledayawn.

“IfoundLewis.Iaskedthepoliceofficerwho’sbeenhelpingoutwiththetrespasserifhecouldfindhim,anditonlytookacoupleofhours.”

“Lewis?”

“FromAuntClara’s letter. Ready for this?He’s seventy-eight years oldandhelivesjustoutsideoftown.”

Hallie forced herself to focus, this information notmaking sense. “ThisLewis andUncle Hank share a last name and they’re close in age—UncleHankhas toknowhim.”Sherubbedhereyes,gainingconcentration.“Whydowehavefamilythatwedon’tknowabout?Couldhehavebeenostracizedfor some reason? If that’s the case, I’m not sure we’d want him comingaround.”

“But, don’t forget that Aunt Clara wanted us to find him. Uncle Hankmustknowmoreaboutthisthanhe’slettingon.However,whenItoldhimI’dfound Lewis, he closed right up and said that if I brought him here, hewouldn’t give him the inheritance. Uncle Hank is the only one with thecombinationtothesafe.SoI’mstuck.”

“Wow.”Hallierubbedhereyes,stilltryingtowakeup.Thiswasalottotakeinfirstthinginthemorningonahangover.

“UncleHankisn’thappythatwe’vefoundhim,andhe’sinarottenmoodthismorningbecauseof it. I’mhopingbeingaround the familyatbreakfastwillcalmhimdown.Itisn’tgoodforhimtobesoupset.”

Hallie’sheadwasnowthrobbing.“Definitelynot.Andatsomepoint,he’sgoing to have to give one of us the combination to the family safe.Whatwouldwedoifsomethinghappenedtohim?”Sheranherhandsoverherface,notcomfortablewiththeconversation.SheneededtocalmUncleHankdownassoonasshecould.

“IsBenupyet?He’sgreatwithUncleHank.”Stillholdingthechampagnebottle,Mamawentovertothedoorway.“Maybeyoucangogethim,andthetwoofyoucancometobreakfasttogetherasaunifiedfront.”

Unified.Hallie closedher eyes and remembered the feeling of his armsaroundher.“Okay.I’llgogethim.”

Shegotherselfreadyforthedayandthenheadedtotheguesthouse.ThefirstthingsheobservedwasthatBeau’swaterbowlwasgonefromtheporch,whichmeant that theyhadn’t taken theirmorningwalk.ShewonderedhowBenhadgotten awaywith notwalkingBeau—his dog loved thewater andwouldpoutbythedoor,makingthemallfeelguiltyuntilBentookhimout.Perhaps he’d stayed up late after she’d left last night, and he was still

sleeping.

Sheknocked twice.Whenhedidn’t answer, she let herself in.Only thenatural light coming through the windows lit the white space, the gentleslappingofthegulfoutsidethelonesoundaroundher.

“Ben?”Hallienoticedtheperfectlyplacedthrowpillowsonthesofa,theabsenceofBeau’sdogbedinthecornerofthelivingroom,Ben’scomputernotwedgedontothesidetable,thecleankitchencounter…Shezeroedinonasinglepieceofpaperlyingthereandpickeditup,runninghereyesoverhername.ShereadthenoteinBen’shandwriting:

IhavetogobacktoNashville.SylvanParkjustgotofferedaspotastheopeningact inaprettyprominent festival.Theywant torecordanewsingleandthenseeifwecansqueezeoutafewmorecutsforthealbum with what they’ve got written faster than we’d all planned,althoughIneedtomeetwiththemtofindoutspecificsfirst.PleasetelleveryoneI’msorryIhadtoleaveandIlovethemall.Textmeifyouneedme.

She lookedup, disappointment swimming around inside her. She didn’tknowhowtomoveforwardwithBen,butshe’dthoughtshewouldatleastgetthechancetofigureitout.Nowhewasgone,andwithUncleHanknotdoingwell andAuntClara’swishes to take care of,Hallie couldn’t just run afterhim.Andsheprobablyshouldn’tanyway.Shepulledherphonefromherbackpocket,notevensurewhatshewantedtosay.

Whensheopenedthescreen,shehadatextwaitingfromAshley.They’dexchangednumbersthelasttimetheyweretogether,andHalliehadmeanttokeepintouchbuttheneverythinghadhappenedwithJeff…Shereadthetext.

HiHallie.Benisn’tansweringhisphone.IsitallrightifIcomeovertoseehim?Ineedtotalktohim.

Hallie’s mouth was dryer than even the champagne had made it, herstomachfeelinglikeithadabowlingballsittinginit.TheimageofAshley

smiling and chattingwithher at theChristmasparty floodedhermind, andshefelthorriblethatthingshadn’tworkedoutbetweenBenandAshley.Eventhough nothing had happened, Hallie knew how she’d felt in that momentwithBenand the things thathadcrossedhermind,and it allmadeher feelresponsibleforthebreakupinsomestrangeway.

But justasconcerningwas thefact thatBenhad left townwithouteventellingtheminperson.Thatwasn’tlikehimatall.ItwassounlikehimthatHallie’sheartwaspounding.Whyhadn’the justcometo themainhouse tosaygoodbye toeveryone?Was theresomeotherreasonforhimtohave leftthisway?Didithaveanythingtodowithlastnight?

Butthenshetookinasteadyingbreath.Benhadsethisjobontheback-burner tobringHalliehere.Shehadno ideaabout the timeframethisbandhad or the amount of work that had been piling up for Ben. He was tooconsideratetoevenmentionanythinglikethatwhilesheandherfamilyweredealingwithsomuch.Perhapstherewasnootherreasonforleavingthewayhehadotherthanthefactthathejustneededtogetthere.Itwasconceivablethatthebandhadtohavethingsdoneasquicklyaspossible,andBenwasjustthetypeofpersontogiveiteverythinghehad.

ShecalledAshley.

Ashleyansweredimmediately.

“Hi.It’sHallie.Isawyourtext.”

“HiHallie!IwasjustwonderingifitwouldbeokaywiththefamilyifIstoppedby to seeBen. Is he there? I’ve tried to call him,but I just get hismissed-callmessage.Andheisn’tansweringmytextseither.”

“Heisn’there,butheleftanote.Ifounditthismorning.He’sgonebacktoNashvilleforwork.”

The linewassilent forapulsebeforeAshleysaidquietly,“MayIcomeoveranyway?Ireallyneedtotalktosomeone,andyouknowhimsowell…”

Anothertwingeofguiltsnakedthroughher.Butsheremindedherselfthatnothingatallhadhappenedlastnight,anditwasn’therfaultifthingshadn’tworkedoutbetweenBenandAshley.“Haveyoueaten?We’remakingabig

breakfast.Whydon’tyoucomeoverandwecantalkafter.”

“Iwouldn’twanttoimpose.”Hervoicesoundedvulnerable.

Hallie was certain her family wouldn’t mind having Ashley there. Ifanything,herpresencemightkeepUncleHankcivilwhentheybroughtupthetopicofLewis.“Youwouldn’tbeimposingatall!Pleasecome.”

“Okay,I’llbethereintenminutes.”

“Great.Seeyousoon.”HallieendedthecallandheadedbacktothemainhousetohelpMamasetaplaceforonemoreatthetable.

Ashleyscootedherchairunderthetableandputherhandsinherlappolitely.“Thank you, Mrs. Flynn, for having me over this morning,” she said toMama. Her blonde hair was tied up into a ponytail, showing off her highcheekbones.Shehadaninnocencetoherfacethatrevealedherhonestyandkindness,butsheseemedalittlehesitant,notnearlyascarefreeandhappyaswhen they’d been at the party together. The circumstances were clearlyaffectingher.

“It’slovelytohaveyouwithus.PassAshleythepotatocasserole,please,Sydney,”Mamasaid,sittingdownbesideUncleHank.

Robbygotontohiskneestoreachacrossthetableforthesalt.“Where’sBen?”heasked.

“HehadtoleaveunexpectedlyforNashvilletowork.Somethingwithoneofhisbands…”Hallietoldhim.

As soon as she said it, Sydney regarded herwith unsaid questions.Hersister’sexpressionmadeHalliefeelasifshe’ddonesomethingtodrivehimaway, but she knew that it was Sydney’s desire to protect Robby that wasmakingher question the situation. It didn’t stop the tingling sensation fromcrawling up her neck, the responsibility for Ben’s leaving falling uponHallie’sshouldersdespiteherattemptstothinkotherwise.

“I’msosorrytohearthat,”Mamasaid.“Iwishhe’dhadsomebreakfastbeforeleaving.Ididn’tevengettosaygoodbye.”

“Maybethatmeanshe’llbebacksoon,”Robbysaid,hishopesshowinginhisexpression.

“Maybe!”Sydneytoldhim,asshepassedabowlofeggstoUncleHank.

Every day that they spent at Firefly Beach, the Flynns had breakfasttogetherwithAuntClaraandUncleHank.Itwastheirtime.AuntClarahadsaidthattheonlywaytostartthedaywaswithprayerfirstandthenfamily.Prayer would guide them and family would ground them. They had livelyconversationsaroundthetable;theysharedstories,laughed,andevenhelpedeachother through their concerns.Butnow theatmospherewasempty, justliketheoldSteinwaythatsat in thefront room.Theywerepresent inbody,butnotpresentthewayAuntClarahadinsistedtheybe.Onthesurface,theywerestillbehavingliketheyhad,butthingshadchangedatStarlightCottageforsure.

“Ashley,howareyourgrandparents?”Mamaasked.

“They’re doing well. Mimi and my gramps are getting ready for hisseventy-ninthbirthday.Thehouseisfullofrelatives.Mama’sthrowingthemapartyandwe’veallbeenhelpingherplanit.”Sheraisedhereyebrowsandsmiled.“Y’allaremorethanwelcometocome!”

“Thankyou,Ashley.That’skindofyoutoask.We’llseeifwecanswingby,butwe’vebeenbusywiththingssinceClarapassed.”

Ashley’s gaze dropped to her lap out of respect for Aunt Clara. “Yes,ma’am.Iunderstand.It’sadifficulttime,I’msure.”

“Itis,”Mamaadmitted.“Andtherearealotoflooseendstotieup.LikefindingoutaboutafamilyfriendnamedLewis,rightUncleHank?”

PerhapsMamathoughtblurtingitoutinfrontofAshleywouldbethebestway to handle it, but Hallie would’ve danced around the topic a bit first.Mamawasn’toneforbeatingaroundthebush,though.

UncleHankpursedhislips.“Heisn’tafriend.”

“Whoishethen?”Mamaasked,urginghimwithhereyestotellthem.

“He’ssomeonewho’sbeengonefrommylifeforquitesometime,andI’d

liketokeepitthatway.”

“EvenifAuntClarasawthingsdifferently?”

“Claragotoverlysentimentalattheend.Ormaybesheknewwe’dallfeelso dreadful she could ask outlandish things of us andwe’d feel obliged toappeaseher.”HesentaremorsefullookovertoHallieassoonashesaidit.

Hallieunderstoodexactlywhy.UncleHankknewthatbysayingthat,hewassuggestingHallie’s listcouldbeoneof those“outlandish”requestsandthatHalliewouldappeaseAuntClarainhergrief.He’dencouragedHallietofinishthelist,andheknewthathispredicamentwasn’tsodifferentfromhers.Shestaredathimuntilhebrokeeyecontact,clearlyrecognizingwhatshewasthinking.

Ashleyquietlypiledhashbrownsontoherplate.

“Youalwaystoldheryou’ddoanythingforher.Irememberhearingyousay it over and over growing up,” Mama said to him. “Why is this anydifferent?”

“Itjustis.Caseclosed.”

Hiseyesbegantofillupwithtearsandheclearedhisthroat,diggingintohiseggs,soMamadroppedit. Itwasn’t likeher tomakeaguest illatease,andeveninhergriefandherstruggletodorightbyAuntClara,shewouldn’tstarttoday.

“Dotrythebreakfastcasserole,Ashley,”shesaid,hervoiceliftingasshehandedAshleytheservingspoon.“Feelfreetotakesomehomewithyou.Wehavemorethanenough.”

AshleysmiledandglancedoveratUncleHankunderherlashes.“Thankyousomuch.”

Afterbreakfast,HallieandAshleylefttheirsandalsontheporchandtookawalk on the beach. Hallie was glad for the sunshine and the squawk ofseagulls overhead to lighten the mood. The wind rippled her shirt as theymadetheirwaypasttheseagrassandoverthewhitedunes.Theywalkeduntil

the tinklingofAuntClara’s glasswind chimeon thebackporchwasbut afaintsoundundertherushofwateraroundtheirfeet.

“WhatdoyouthinkisgoingonwithBen?”Ashleysaid,puttingherhandsinthepocketsofhershortsasshekickedagurglingwave,thesprayspittingoutinfrontofthem.

“I don’t know,”Hallie said honestly. Even if therewas something newbetween them, itwasn’t likehim to leaveHalliewhen sheneededhim.Heneverdidthat.“Ithinkhemightjustbereallybusyatwork.”

“No.Idon’tthinkso.”Ashley’svoicewastentative.“I’msurehetoldyouthatwebrokeup.”Herlipwobbledandsheturnedtowardthesea.“WhenIgottoFireflyBeach,I’daskedtomeetupwithhimsoIcouldgetsomekindofclosure.Ourbreakupseemedsosudden;Idon’tunderstandit.”

HalliehatedtoseeAshleysosad.“Wanttotalkaboutit?”

She took in an anxious breath. “I thought things were fine, and then acoupleofweeks agohe cameby thehouse and toldmehedidn’t thinkweshould date exclusively, that it wasn’t fair to me. I have no idea what hemeantby thatbecause I didn’twant todate anyoneelse.Howcoulddatinghimbeunfairtomewhenhe’sallIwant?”Sheblinkedawaytears.

“Thishappenedacoupleofweeksago?”

“Iremembertheveryday.I’djustcomehomefromworkformylastdaybeforemytimeoff.ItwasaFriday,andIwashopinghewascomingovertomakeplansforthenightbecausetheweatherwasperfectfordrinksoutside.We’dtalkedaboutgoingtoTheGulch.I’dhopedwecouldmaybegooutandhave a nice dinner and a glass ofwine or something at one of the rooftopbars.”

TwoFridaysagowas thedayHalliehadcalledBen toaskhimtocomewithher toFireflyBeach.And likea flash, she remembered theirexchangewhen Gavin came to pick her up: she’d asked him why it was a naturalreactiontomakeherfeellikeshehadtobeafraidofeveryoneshedated.

He’dreturned,“Youdon’thavetobeafraidofthem.”

Itwasallstartingtocometogether…Hedidn’teverseemtolikepeople

shedatedbecausehewasafraidofthem.Howlonghadhefeltthiswayabouther? The spot on her chest tingled where his fingers had first been. Sherubbedittomakeitstop,unabletogetabreath.

“IinvitedhimoverbecauseIwantedanexplanation…Iwaited,offeringhimicedtea,lettinghimchatwithMimi,untilthelastpossibleminute,whenIcouldaskhimtotellmewhy,buthedidn’tgivemeananswer.Hesaidhehadtogo,andhewouldn’tstay.Youknowhimsowell.WhatshouldIdo?”

Hallie did knowBenwell, but this side of himwasn’t her expertise. Infact,hewassurprisingherateveryturn.Shethoughtaboutthoseblueeyes,thesilverflecksinthemashelookedatherlastnight,howeasyithadbeentoknowhisthoughtswhenforsolongshe’dbeenunabletodecipherthem.

Halliedidn’tknowwhattosay.Thetruthwas,shehadnoideawhattodo.

FIFTEEN

Feeling alone, Hallie stood in the open area of the guesthouse, lookingaround. For what, she wasn’t sure. She already missed Ben’s little pile ofpapersonthecounter,hisheadphonesrestingonthearmofthesofawhilehetypedon his laptop.She inhaled,wondering if she could catch his scent todecipher what kind of emotion she felt when it hit her, but even that wasgone.ShestillneededBentogetthroughthis,butshewasn’tsurehowtobearoundhimnow.Perhapsheknew thatwouldhappenand thatwaswhyheleft. Therewas no “perhaps” about it. Thatwas exactlywhy he’d left. Nomatterwhat,he’dneverputworkabovethepeopleheloved.

TherewasaknockatthedoorandHallienearlyjumpedoutofherskin,thetrespasserstillintheforefrontofhermind.WithoutBen,shewasjumpy.Thelatemorningsunwascominginataslant,castinglongshadowsthroughtheroom,everyoneofthemjabbingherinsideswithmildapprehension.Asopenasthelittlebungalowwas, therewasnowindowinthedoor,probablyforprivacysince itopenedright into the livingspace.Becauseshecouldn’tseewhowasonthefrontstoop,sheresolvedtoputanewdoorinifshewasgoing to spend any length of time there. With everyone else in the mainhouse,noonecouldhearathingwayouthere.

Hallieopenedthedoorslowlywithafirmgripontheknob,readytoslamitshutonanyonewithlessthanfavorableintentions.Shepeeredthroughthecrackshe’dmadebetweenthedoorframeandthedoor tofindGavin, toherrelief, holding an enormous paper-wrapped parcel. The tension in hershouldersreleasedandsheopenedthedoorwider.

“Hi,” he said, his face lifted in excitement. “Your sister said youwere

probablyouthere.Ihavesomethingforyou.MayIcomein?”

Halliesteppedbacktoallowhimtoenter.Hewalkedovertothekitchenarea, stoppingmomentarily to assesshis surroundings, and shehad tokeephermindin thepresentwhenhesteppedover towhereBenhadbeenwhenthey’dopenedthechampagne.

Gingerly, Gavin set the parcel on the kitchen island. “Unwrap it,” heinsisted.

Curious, givenhis enthusiasm,Halliepulled the twine ribbon loose, thepaperslackeningaroundtheshapeinside.Withatinytug,shedrewthepaperfromunder theheavyobject and then lifted it off, revealingwhat hadbeencovered.

“Ohmygoodness!”shesaidwithgenuinehappiness.Shepeereddownatalargerversionofherphotograph,mattedinburlapandframedinblackjusttheway she’d said she’d have done it. It looked so lovely that she had toremindherselfitwasherownwork.

“Yourfirstpiece.”

Thebeautyofitastoundedher.It toldsuchadifferentstoryinthisformthanithadonthelittlescreenofhercamera.

“Ihaven’tput thepaperbackingonyet.Wouldyousignthebackof thephotograph?Icanshowyouhow.”Hebeamedather,andshewonderedhowshe’deverworriedabouthisopinion.Hewassokind.“I’dliketoputitinthegallery.I’llgiveyouonehundredpercentoftheprofitifIsellit.OrshouldIsaywhenIsellit.It’sfantastic.WouldIhaveyourpermissiontodothat?”

“Yes!”shesaid,practicallybursting.“Gavin,itwouldbesuchanhonor.”

Hebrokeoutintoanenormousgrin.“Gladtohearthat.Now,wouldyoutrustmeifItoldyoutograbyourcamera?Wehavemoreworktodo.”

Halliecouldn’thelpbutwonderifAuntClarahadahandinallthis,andHallie wanted to make her proud. She thought about Gavin’s particularphotographystyle,andasheledherdownthestonepathtothemainhouse,she consideredwhat her own stylewould be.What did shewant people tothinkwhentheylookedatherpictures?SherememberedAuntClara’swords:

Life is what you make it. That was when it hit her. She wanted herphotographytobeaboutlife.

As theywalkedup theporch stepsofStarlight, she liftedhercamera toadjustherfocusandsquatteddowntogetanewangleofAuntClara’srockingchair,leaningjustslightlytothelefttoallowthesunshinetostretchacrossthesurfaceofit.Shetookhershot.Justthattinyadjustmentwasmilesbetterthanthe last time she’d shot that chair. Now it actually looked like a placesomeonewouldsit,thewarmorangeglowofsunshinegivingitlife.Shewasalready imagining how to adjust the light and filterswhen she got back toGavin’s, and she had a million different ways she could display it. Large-weave tan and creamblankets, glass bowls of sand and seashells, blue andwhitestripedthrowpillows…

“Youreadmymind,”Gavinsaid.“Ithinkyoumighthaveanaturalabilityattakingphotosofobjectsinparticular.”Hepeeredoverhershoulderattheimageshe’djusttaken.“Youknowjusthowtobalancethelightanddarkinthem.Eachofyourphotographs takesona sortofpersonality.Whatwouldyounamethisone?”

Halliepushedthecameraawayfromhertogetafocusedviewoftheshot.Itwascozyandhappy, thewaythechair lookedinhermemorywhenAuntClarawas justabout to lowerherself into it.Her laughfiltered intoHallie’smind,makingher feelawaveof jubilationas ifHalliecould reachoutandtouchher.“Ithinkthisonecouldeasilybecalled‘StillThere’.”

“Perfect.”

“WhatifIdidmore?WhatifItookphotosofobjectsthatdepictedlifeonthecoast?I’mthinkingcoastalcomfort.”

“Youjustnamedyourseries.”Heshookhishead,disbeliefshowinginhisgrin.“Iwasgoingtoaskyouifyou’ddoafewprintstoputupinthegalleryalongsidetheoneIframed.”

“Myseries?”

“Essentially,aseriesisagroupingofartworkthatallfitsunderonetheme.The fire-pit photo in theguesthouse is a perfect piece forCoastalComfort.

AndIhaveafeelingtherockingchairwillbeaswell.”

“I’d love to do more,” she said, thinking. “What if each piececomplementedtheothersinacolorpalette?”

“Verybranded.Ilikeit.”

“SodoI,”shesaid,withnewperspectiveabouthowtogiveformtothistalent she had. Like a tidal wave, ideas were flowing and she was havingtrouble turning themoff.“I’d like toname the framedphoto ‘Beginnings’,”she said. She squared herself at the front door and snapped another photo.“Butoneseriesdoesn’tmakeabrand.Idon’thavearealbrandyet…”

“You’regettingaheadofme,”Gavin saidwitha laugh. “Whydon’twetake about a hundred shots and then choose the best ones to create yourCoastalComfortseriesoverabitetoeatintown?”

“Okay.”

“Great! Then I’d better get to painting the trim before your uncle firesme.”

“Let’s ask him to go to lunch with us. Maybe that’ll make up for mylateness.”

“Did the doctor’s appointment go okay?” Hallie asked, as she and GavinhelpedUncleHank sit down at the table atWes andMaggie’s.Mama hadtaken him for a follow-up to discuss his lab work, but she’d gotten sopreoccupiedwith taking care of things around the house thatHallie hadn’theardtheresults.

SohappytohaveUncleHankthere,Weshadgiventhemthetablerightby the bar so they could flag him down with their every need. The giantgaragedoorswereopen,lettinginadeliciousbreezethatpickedupthescentof rumfrom themixeddrinksWeswasmakingas itpassedover thebar totheir table. Softmusic played in the background, the sound of steel drumsoverthelightchatterofthetouristsliketheheartbeatofsummer.

“Mybillofhealthwascleanasawhistle,”UncleHanksaid.“Thedoctor

thinksthatit’sallinmyhead.Itoldhim,‘Ofcourseitis!That’swhereIgetdizzy.’”

Gavingrinnedathisjokeashesethiscameradownontothetable.

WhenUncleHankwas settled,Maggie placed a cup of black coffee infront of him. Nomatter how hot it was outside, it was Uncle Hank’s firstrequestwhenevertheyvisited.

“The doctorwantsme to go to grief counseling. He thinksmy anxietyoverClaraiscausingphysicalproblems,andthat’swhymybalanceisoff.”

“Itprobablyisn’tabadidea,”Hallieoffered.Sheplacedhercamerabagontothefloor.

“Idon’tbuyintoallthatmumbojumbo.Mywifedied.Imissher.Idon’tneedtopaysomeonebythehourtolistentometellthemthat.”

Halliesatdownbesidehimandpickeduptheplasticmenubutdidn’tlookatit.“Theyhavestrategiestohelpyoumanageyourfeelings.”

“Well,Idon’tknowifthere’sanygoodwaytomanagelosingyourwholeworld,”UncleHanksaid.

Gavinclearedhisthroat,hisfacegoingwhite.“Excusemeasecond,”hesaid,standing.Hewalkedofftowardthebathrooms.

Uncle Hank’s sorrow over losing Aunt Clara must have brought backpainful memories for Gavin. While he and Uncle Hank had shared a fewprivatemoments together, thiswasout in theopen,withHalliepresent.Herskin prickledwith concern as she leaned forward to see if she could catchsight of him, but the bathroom door had already shut. She turned back toUncleHank.

“They’renotsayingyoucan’tbesad,”shesaid.“Buttheymighthelpyoudealwithyoursadness…teachyouhowtobesadwithoutfallingdownallthetime.”

“What’stheoldsaying?‘Youcan’tteachanolddognewtricks?’”

“Idon’t believe that.”Shewatched the surf through theopen restaurantdoors. Itwas another red-flag day, thewaves impatiently foaming onto the

powdery sand. “AuntClarawouldn’thavewanted to seeyou thisway.Shealwaysembracedlife, livedit toitsfullest.Shewouldbemortifiedtoknowthatyou’vequittrying.”

UncleHankgrittedhisteeth.

Moregently,shesuddenlywonderedaloud,“WhatdidAuntClarasayinher letter to you?” She was certain that Aunt Clara would’ve told himsomethingsimilartowhatHalliehadjustsaid.

“Idon’tknow,”UncleHankansweredquietly.

“Youdon’tknow?”

Heshookhishead.“Ihaven’topenedherletter.”

Halliefeltherfacecrumplewithconfusion.“Whynot?”

“I’mangrywithherforleaving.”Hepickeduphismugofcoffeeandputittohislipswithashakyhand.“Idon’twanttoknowwhatshehastosay.”

“She didn’t have a choice in thematter.”When he didn’t respond, shesaid,“Youneedtoopentheletter.Itwasimportantenoughforhertowriteit,andshe’sable tospeak toyou through it.Don’tyouwant tohearhervoiceagain?”

Atearformedinthecornerofhiseyeashestaredintohiscoffee.

HalliewishedBenwereheretohelphertalktoUncleHank.He’dknowjust the right things to say to make Uncle Hank understand. Ben couldconsolehimandhelphimtoseeherpointofview.Andwhatshedidn’twanttoadmittoherselfwasthatshewantedBentomakeher feelbetteraswell.UncleHank’ssadnesswastearingherapart,andshewasworkingsohard toholdherselftogetherforhisbenefit.

“How’sthecoffee?”Maggiesaid,settingglassesofwaterdownforeachofthem.

UncleHank lookedupatherandproducedasmile.“It’sasdeliciousasever,”hesaid.

“Gladtohearit.Where’syourfriendMr.Wilson?”

Hallie eyed the bathroom—the door was still closed. But then laughtercaughtherattentionoutside.ThatwaswhenshesawGavinonthedeck,hishandsspreadontherailing,hisfacetowardthegulf.

“He’s outside,” she answered. “I’ll just go and check on him. Can yougiveusafewmoreminutesbeforeweorder?”

“Absolutely.I’llcomebackinabit.”

Hallie excused herself from the table andwalked out into the sunshine,squintingthroughthebrightlighttofocusonGavin.Shecameupbehindhim.“Youokay?”sheasked.

He turned around. “I’m sorry,” he said. “It might be too soon…” Helookedweary,uncertain.

“Toosoon?”

“ToosoontopretendlikeI’mnotsoeatenupwithfearthatIcan’tmoveforward.” He looked past her to their table. “I understand your uncle’sperspectiveperfectly.Wearen’tverydifferent.”

“Youaredifferent,”shesaid.“You’reactuallytryingtomoveforward.”

“Iwasrightwherehewasforquiteawhile.”Helookedbackoutat thesea,overafamilythathadsetuparingtossonthebeach,theirjoviallaughtercontrastingwiththesituationbetweenthethreeofthem.“There’sapartofmethatwantstoholdontothatfeelingyourunclehasrightnow,becauselettingit gowould allow the possibility that Imight forget what we had. But theagonyofholdingonisexhausting,andsometimesIjustwanttoforgetallofit.I’mtryingtomakeaplanformylife.Toworktorebuildit.ButitfeelslikeIkeepmentallyfallingdownwheneverIstandup.SoIgetwhatyouruncleisdealingwith.”

“Ithinkmovingononlymeansthatyou’reallowingyourselftobeokay.”She smiledupat thisman shebarelyknewbut felt completely comfortabletalkingto.“You’llneverforget,”shesaid,thinkingofherloveforAuntClara.“You’llfindmorehappinessifyouallowyourselftolookforit.”Shewasn’tsurewherethatadvicehadcomefrom.ItfeltlikeAuntClarawasgivingherthewordstosay.

Gavinkepthiseyesontheripplingsurf.

“There’snorush, though.Rightnow,we’rehere to lookatphotographs.Whydon’twefocusonthat?Let’sshowUncleHankthepictureswetook.I’dlovetoseeyourshots.”

Gavin nodded, took in a steadying breath, and put his hand onHallie’sbacktoleadherinside.Shedidn’tmindtheirclosenessatall.Itfeltkindofnicetobethestrongoneforonce.

Whentheygotbacktothetable,UncleHankhadnearlyfinishedhiscupof coffee. Maggie replaced it with another and took their orders. Hallielightened the mood by mentioning what she and Gavin had been up to atStarlightCottage.

SheleanedoverandturnedthescreenofhercameratowardUncleHank.“Tellmetheonesyoulikethebest,”shesaid.

Uncle Hank’s face lit up when he saw her picture of the front porchrocking chair. But that wasn’t all she had. She’d taken pictures of thelighthouse,theshimmeringwaterasitrushedunderthedock,thestonepathleadingtotheguesthouse…HundredsofshotsofthehouseatFireflyBeach.Shehadanunusualfeelingassheclickedthroughthoseimagesoftheplacethat had changed her in somanyways. It had been the housewhere she’dseentrueloveforthefirsttime,betweenherauntanduncle;ithadbeentheplacethathadgivenhersecurityandhappinesswhenherdadleftthem;andithadbeen there towatch her grow into awoman.Now itwas changingheragain.Thiswaswhatwasmeantforher.Theideahadbobbedaroundinheruncertaintyforawhile,butthemoresheleanedintothistalentshe’dfound,themorerightitfeltandthebiggeritgotinherhead.

Whiletheytalkedaboutherphotography,UncleHankhadlifeinhiseyes,aglimmerofwhatusedtobepresentallthetime.Shewasgladshe’dbroughthimouttoday,butonethinghadhappenedthatshe’dneverexpected.Halliehad comforted both Gavin and Uncle Hank by herself, without leaning onanyoneforsupport.Halliewasstartingtogetsomeofheroldstrengthback.

SIXTEEN

UncleHankwaswalkingbettertoday.Hehadaslightspringinhisstepaftertheir timeoutyesterday,butHallie stillgavehimherarmfor supportasheheadeddownstairsatStarlightCottage.SydneyhadgoneoutwithMamaandRobby.They’dtakenadvantageofHallie’soffertostaywithUncleHankandthey’dgonetotheparktoletRobbyplay,sothehousewasempty.

After Uncle Hank’s nap, having lumbered his way to the first floor onHallie’sarm,hepausedintheentrywaytocatchhisbreathfromthejourneydownstairs.Theearlyafternoonsunlightfilteredinfromtheglass-panedfrontdoor,reachingacrossthehardwoods.

“Areyouhungry?”sheasked.

UncleHankshookhishead,contemplative.“Lunchyesterdaywasgood.Ienjoyedit,”hesaid,allowinghimselfasmallsmile.

“Metoo.”

Itseemedlikeheneededaminute,so theyloiteredthere in thehallway,the silence louder toher than their laughterhadbeenover theyears.UncleHanksentaquick look through the living roomdoorway,over to thepianothatsatinthecorner,thetopdown,likeaneglectedfamilymember.TheoldSteinwayhadbeeninthecenterofsomanywonderfulmemoriesandnowitsat unused, abandoned, the keys hidden from view by the dust-coveredfallboard.

ShegaveUncleHankalookthatsheknew,despiteherattempttohideit,told him how much she missed hearing him play. To Hallie’s completesurprise, he began tomake hisway over to it. He sat down slowly on the

bench, lifted the fallboard, then linedhis fingersupon thekeys, restinghisrightthumbonmiddleC,whichwastheonlykeysherememberedfromwhenhe’dtriedtoteachherasagirl.

Hitting each note individually, intentionally giving space for thoughtbetween them,hebegana slow, sad song that shedidn’t recognize.She satdownbeside himwhile he continued.His fingers seemedbulkier than theyusedto,butthesoundwasstillfluidashepickedupthepace.Asshetriedtodecipher the tune, he stopped the song right in the middle and shut thefallboard.

“WhenIenjoymyself,Iforgetforamomentthatshe’sgone,”hesaid.“Inthose instances, I feel likemyselfagain,andIhaven’t felt likemyselfsincebeforeshegotsick.Idon’tlikeitwhenithappensbecauseitseemslikeshe’sright in thenextroom,andwhenI realizeshe isn’t, ithurtsalloveragain.”Hisvoicebroke.

Hallieputherheadonhisshoulder.“I thinkyoushouldreadher letter,”shesaidgently.

“Ican’tjustyet.”HeleanedonthepianotosteadyhimselfandHalliesatup.“I’mstilltired.I’dliketositdown.”

“Okay,”shesaid.“Letmehelpyoutoachair.”

Ihopethemusiciscomingalong,HallietextedBen.

Whenhedidn’t respond,sheputherphone inher lapand lookedoutatthecloudsmovingin.Theaircomingoff thewaterwascooleraheadof thestormthatwasheadedtheirway.LateafternoonrainwasoneofthethingssherememberedmostaboutsummersatFireflyBeach.AuntClarawouldstayoutontheporchuntiltherainwouldforceherinside.She’dgetboardgamesanddecksofcards,booksandpuzzles,spreadingthemalongthefloor,thevanillascentofcandlesfloatingthroughtheairastheyallgiggledandchattedduringtheirgames.

Everyonewasstillgone,andaftera fewhours inhischair,UncleHank

hadwantedtorestwherehecouldbemorecomfortable,soshe’dassistedhimbackupstairs.He’dbarelymade it tohis room—ithad takenallofHallie’sstrength to get him to his bed—so Hallie decided to rest, herself. She’dchosen to sit outside in the gazebo alone. She didn’t get much respite,however; scanning the coastline every few minutes to make sure she wasactuallyalone.ItwasreallyhardtostaypositivewithoutBenthere.Andshehadsomuchtotellhimaboutherphotographyandthedesignideasshehadtoaccompanythephotos.Nottomention,she’dliketoknowwhatwasgoingonwiththetwoofthem.

Sheheldherphoneupandtyped,Imissyou.

Immediately,thistime,thebubblesappeared.

Imissyoutoo,hereturned.I’mjustsuperbusy.

She texted back, I hope it’s productive-busy!Call me when you get achance.

Okay.

“The wind is picking up,” Sydney said from down the dock, pullingHallie’sattentiontohersister,whowaswalkingtowardherwithRobby.Hegrippedapieceofpaperinhislittlehandasitwavedwildlywitheverygust.

WhentheyreachedHallie,Robbyclimbedupontoher lap.“ImadethisforBen,”hesaid.“It’sthetwoofusplayingfootball.”

Askinnychild,Robbywasn’tbuiltforfootball,andhe’dgottenhurtthefirst timehe’d tried toplay in the recreational league, soSydneyhadurgedhim toward baseball, but he still loved the game. Having been a collegequarterback,BenhadtheskillstoteachRobbyhowtoplay,buthewasalsogentleenoughtokeephimfromgettinginjured.TheyspentmanySaturdaystogether watching Robby’s favorite teams on television. Ben had taughtRobbythenamesandintricaciesofvariousplaysbeforehe’devenlearnedtheentire alphabet. As the team broke from their lineup to execute a play, aplayer running around the end of the formation, Ben would say, “What’sthat?”

Atfouryearsold,Robbyjumpedupandcalledoutthenameoftheplay:

“JetSweep!”

“IwasjusttextingBen.He’sstillreallybusy.I’llbethe’dliketoseeyourdrawingwhenhegetsback,”HallietoldRobby.

“He saidwe’d play, but then he had to leave.”Robby looked up at herwithdisappointmentinhiseyes.“Ibroughtmyfootballandeverything.”

“I’lltellhimyouwanthimtoplaywhenItalktohim.Iaskedhimtocallmeassoonashegetsachance.”SheshiftedRobby’sweightonherlegs.“Hedidn’tmeantorunofflikehedid.Hejusthadtogobacktowork.”

When she looked up, Sydney was staring at her, an indecipherableexpression on her face. Hallie tried to question it with a look, but Sydneyturnedherhead toward theblowingwind.Thewavesrushed into theshore,lapping hungrily under the dock, the sky above them a lush shade of gray,billowinginformationsthatmadethemappeartobedancinginthewind.

“Weshouldprobablygetinsidebeforeitpours,”Sydneysaid.“Andwe’llwant to be inside to soften themood.WhenUncleHank gets up,Mama’sgoingtotrytoconvincehimtoletherbringthatLewisguyover.ShewantstocallLewis.”

Halliestoodup.“Yeah,weshouldprobablygetinside.”

Buttheywerejustaticktoolate.

“Howdareyou suggest callinghim?”UncleHankbellowed fromdownthehallwayastheyarrivedatthecottage.HewasawakeandclearlynotveryhappyathearingthenewsthatMamawasinpossessionofLewis’snumber.But then, as Hallie, Sydney, and Robby entered the room, he added morequietlyunderhisbreath,“He’snotcomingintothishouse.”

Aclapofthundershookthewalls.

Robbyranovertograbtheboxofcoloredpencilsandmorepaper.HesetBen’spicturedownonthetableandpulledacleansheetfromthestack.

“Atleast letusknowhowAuntClaraknowshim,”Mamasaid,shuttingthewindowsastherainbegansheetingdown.Themanictinklingofthewindchime silenced when the last windowmet the bottom of its frame.Mama

twistedthelocksonitbeforesearchingUncleHankforananswer.

Heclenchedhisjawdefiantly.

“We can’t just continue to have this stand-off. You’re denying AuntClara’swishes.Iknowshe’dhavewantedyoutomoveforwardwiththisorshewouldn’thavegivenmetheletter.”

“She’s finally gotten me in a position where I can’t argue,” he said,defeated.Hisgaze fell tohis lap,his lipspursed so tightly theywerewhitewithtensionandanguish.

Mama’sfacedroppedinsympathyforherachinguncle.“Wecanleaveitforthetimebeing,butwe’llhavetotalkaboutitlater,”shetoldhim,hertonegentlerthanbefore.

Afterthat,thewholefamilyplungedthemselvesintoaquietsymphonyofmovementtopreparedinner, theundertakingofamealat thecottagenowaseriesoftrainedactions;passingplatesandtakingonehelpingbeforeofferingthe next person the serving dish, whether or not they planned to eat thatparticulardish.

Just then, Hallie’s phone rang. “It’s Ben,” she said. She felt a neweagerness tohearhisvoice,butat thesame time,shesuddenlydidn’tknowwhattosayorwheretobegin.Itrangagain,flusteringher.Sheneededtobeinsilencetothink,butshedidn’twanttoletthecallgoforfearshewouldn’tgetanotherchancetospeaktohimduetohisschedule.“I’lljustgrabitontheporch.”

“You’regonnagetsoaked,”MamawarnedasHallieheadedoutsideontotheporch,closingthedoorbehindher.

“Hello?”Hallieleanedagainstthehousetoavoidtherain.

“Hey.”

The wind whipped around her furiously, the sky darkening to a solidsmokygrayandthechoppyturquoisewaves lookinglikestaticasraindropspelted them.A single jagged bolt of lightning lit up the sky and then dovedown into the sea, another loud clap of thunder chasing it. Shepressed thephonefirmlyagainstherface,gripping it tightly.“How’s themusicgoing?”

sheasked,unsureofwhattosayotherthan,“Whattheheckisgoingonwithus?”—asubjectshedidn’twanttoapproachjustyet.

“Good.” With the phone clamped to her ear, she could hear his lightbreathingontheotherendofthelinedespitethegustsofwindandtherain.Hisbreathssoundedthewaytheydidwhenhewasworried.“I’msorryIleftsoquickly.”

“When can you come back?” They had a lot to talk about: what hadhappenedbetweenthem,andifHalliecouldmusterthecourage,theyneededtodiscusswhytheycouldneverhaveanothermomentlikethatagain.

“I’mnotsure…”Hisvoicewasgentle.

“Robby’supsetthatyouleft.Hewantedtoplayfootballwithyou.Hesaidyoutoldhimyouwould.Iexplainedaboutyourwork.”

Afrustratedgroancamefromtheotherendof thephone.“Damnit,”hesaid inawhisper.“I forgot I’dmentioned that tohim.Ihadno ideawhenIofferedthatI’dhavetoleave.”

“Iknow.I’msurehe’llunderstand.”

Heblewairthroughhislipsloudly.Andthensilence.ShecouldfeelhisdeliberationallthewayfromNashville.“TellhimI’mcomingback.”

AnunexpectedtightnessseizedHallie’schest.Benwascomingback,andwhileshecouldn’twaittoseehim,shedidn’twanttohavetofacetellinghimthe real reason she and Jeff didn’t make it. “He’ll be so happy,” she saidinstead.

“I’mglad.Hey,I’vegottago…”

“Okay.”

“TelleveryoneImissthem.”

“Willdo.”

“AndHallie?”

Shetippedherheadagainstthehouseandclosedhereyes,afraidtohearwhathehadtosaytoher.Shedidn’tknowwhatshewantedhimtotellher,

but a distress like no other swam through her. Perhaps it was the fear ofchange, of things being different between them, of having to learn a newnormal, a normal where they both found themselves having unexpectedfeelingsbutcouldn’tactonthem.“Yeah?”shefinallysaid.

“Imissyouthemost.”

Hewaschangingeverything.

“Seeyousoon?”shesaid,cradlingthephonetoherfaceasifitwerehishand.

“AssoonasIcan.”

Whenshegotoffthecall,Sydney’swarningscreamedatherfrominsideherhead.AfterBenhadlethisfeelingsshowevenalittle,ithadsenthimallthewaybacktoNashville.Hewascertaintostayfarawaywhenshetoldhimher secret.Because once she told him that, any relationship that hewantedotherthanfriendshipwouldbecompletelyoutofthequestion.Andshehadn’ttotallyfiguredoutherown,newfeelingsforBen.Butonethingshedidknowwasthatshe longedfor thefeelofhisarmsaroundher, tohavehiseyesonher, his unstill hands caressing her. If she allowed herself to feelwhat shesuddenlywantedtofeelforBen,theonlythingthatwouldcomeofitwouldbeheartbreak.Couldn’tthingsjustbesimple?

Halliewentbackinside,herhairdamp.Anotherclapofthunderpoundedthem.Robbywasdrawingatruck.“WhatdidBensay?”heasked,hispencilmovingacrossthepaperashesketchedtheroadunderit.

“You’llbehappytoknowthathe’scomingbackjusttoplaythatfootballgame.”

Robbylookedup.“Really?”

“Yep.Hedoesn’tknowwhenjustyet,buthesaidassoonashefinishes,he’scomingtoFireflyBeach.”

“Ican’twaittoseehim!”

“NeithercanI,”Halliesaid.And thenshe lockedeyeswithSydney,butturnedawayquickly,herfaceburningwiththeknowledgethateverythingshe

feltforBenwasrightonthesurfaceforeveryonetosee.

SEVENTEEN

It was late. Sydney had piled up Robby’s drawings on the table and takenRobbyuptogethisbathandreadstories.Hallieinsistedthatitwasherturntocleanupdinner,andshe’dtoldMamatorelaxwithherbookandputherfeetup,soMamadecidedtomakeacupofteaandheadupstairsforalittledowntime.UncleHankhadstayedback.Hestillsatatthecleantable,thelastoneinthekitchenbesidesHallie.

“Wouldyougetmeabeerfromthefridge?”heasked.

Hallieopenedtherefrigeratordoorandpulledoutabeerforhim,andthenoneforher.“MindifIhaveone?”sheasked,holdinguptheotherbottle.

“Notatall.”

She popped the tops off the bottles and brought them to the table,loweringherselfdownacrossfromUncleHank.

He tooka long,quietdrinkfromhisbottleand thenpeereddownat thelabel, pretending to inspect it, but it was evident that hewas gathering histhoughts.“Youraunt ismaking thisverydifficultonme.”He lookedup.“Idon’tunderstandwhyshewouldleaveanythingtoLewis.”

“Whoishe,UncleHank?”Hallieheldherbottlewithbothhands,leaningforwardininterest.

“He’snooneimportant.Hehasn’tbeeninmylifeforoverfiftyyears,andI’dratherkeepitthatway…ButIthinkImightneedtoreadherletter.IwanttoseewhatClarasaysabouthim.It’stearingmeupinside.”Hereachedintohispocketandpulledoutatatteredpinkenvelope.Itwascreasedinhalf,still

sealed,withhisname inAuntClara’sscripton theoutside.Heset iton thetableandstaredatit,tippinghisbeeruptohislipsforanotherdrink.

“Doyouwantmetostay,orwouldyouliketobealone?”

“Stay.Please.”Hepushedittowardherwithhisfingertips.“Infact,wouldyoureadittome?”

A lump formed in Hallie’s throat as she pulled the crumpled envelopetowardher.Thecornerswereworn,presumablyfrombeinginUncleHank’spocket—he must have carried it around just like Hallie had carried hers,unable to letgoof the last tangiblepieceofAuntClara.WithHallie’sownemotionsonthesurface,itwouldbenicetohearhervoice,evenifonlyinhermindasshereadthewriting.

ShestraightenedhershoulderstokeepawaythepinchthatalwayscamewhenevershefacedlifewithoutAuntClaraheadon,andpickedattheedgeoftheenvelope flapuntil shehadenough space to slideher fingerunderneathand free it from the seal. In a split second, shewas holding the letter, thatfamiliar script scrawled across the page, beckoning her eyes to decipher it.UncleHanktookaheavydrinkfromhisbottleassheread.

MyDearestHank,

I’m praying you’ll actually read this. You’re as stubborn asanyone I know,andevenas Iwrite it, I’mworried that you’ll be soannoyedwithme for getting to paradise first that you’ll grudginglycarry this letteraroundandneverhear thewords that Iwantyou toknow.Soifyou’rereadingthis,you’vealreadysurprisedme…

Hallielookedupathimandsmiled.

Firstofall,Iwantyoutoknowthat ifIhavethechanceatall tobewith you in death, I’m there.My chair at the table is full. And I’mlookingatyouwithadoringeyesthesamewayIdideverynight,justlike those quiet summer evenings after the family had headed homeandwewerebothexhausted from theirvisit.Remember theblisswe

shared,justknowinghow,inasmallway,we’dhelpedtoraiseHallieand Sydney, and now theywere adultswho’d gone on to have theirownlives?Wewouldjustsitinthesilenceandsmileateachother.

Uncle Hank didn’t glance over at the chair like Hallie had, his gazeremainingontheletter,buthiseyesfilledwithtears.Herowneyescloudingup,Hallie stoodandwalkedover to theplacewhereAuntClaraalways satandscooted thechairaway from the tablea little, as ifAuntClarahad justgottenupandthenreturnedtoherownseat.Now,morethanever,Halliefeltherthere.Shepickeduptheletteragainandbeganreadingtherestofit.

Thebeautiful thingabout life is thatwedon’t have theanswers. It’shuman nature to search for them, and if we’re lucky, those burningquestionswillgetansweredforus,butevenifallofthemaren’t,whenwelookbackatwhatwe’vedone,wehavesomuchdefiningthepathofwhowearethatthelittlemysteriesdon’tmatter.Myadviceisthis:goblindly into therestofyour life.Do the things thatscareyou themostbecauseiftheyterrifyyou,theyhaveworthtoyou.

Hank, your years are numbered.Wewon’t be apart very long. Iknowyou’lltakecareofallthebusinessendofthis,butyoustillhaveworktodo,andasIsithererightnow,I’mcertainthat’sexactlywhyyoustayedonthisearthafterIhadtoleaveit.KnowinghowstubbornyouareaboutLewis, I’mgivingyoua littlepush.Butultimately, it’sup to you to make your family whole. There’s nothing holding youbacknow.Ican’tgetinthewayofitanymore.IsawyoustaringattheemptychairIleftforLewiseveryholiday.

Halliestoppedreading,thelastlinehittingalittletooclosetohome.Theway they all noticedAunt Clara’s absence at the table was thewayUncleHankhadnoticedLewis’s.Whowasthisman?SheprobedUncleHankwithaquestioningstare,buthewasn’tbudging.Sinceshecouldn’tgettheanswersfromhim,shejustkeptreading.

Everytimewegotthefamilytogetheraroundthetable,youlookedat

thatemptychair.Andifitweren’tforme,Lewiswouldhavebeeninit.Go.Fill it.Becausemyhope foryou is thatyouhavenot twoemptychairsthisyearatyourtablebuttwothatarefilled—onewithLewisandonewithmymemory.

Our life together has a breathtaking view from where I sit as Iwritethis.Everyoneinyourfamilydeservesthekindofloveyougaveme. I can’t wait to see what you do next. I’ll be right beside youcheeringyouon.

Iloveyou.

ForeverYours,

Clara

Theybothsatinsilence,thelighttappingoftherainontherooftheonlysound around them. The fact that Aunt Clara had already thought of theempty space shewould leave before it happened rockedHallie to the core,andmadeherbelievethatAuntClarawasrighttherejustlikeshesaidshe’dbe.

UncleHankdrainedhisbeerandgentlysettheemptybottleonthetable.Hiseyeswerestillmisty,hislipspursedtokeepthemfromwobbling.

“Will you talk to Lewis?” Hallie asked, her voice cutting through thestillness.

Withlaboredmovements,heshookhishead.“Idon’tknow…”

“Youhaveto.DidyouhearwhatAuntClarawassaying?”

“Idon’tknowifIwanthiminmylife.”

“AuntClarathinksheshouldbe.”

Whenhedidn’tanswer,Halliewentovertothewindow.Theheavyrainhad lifted, leavingonly agentle sprinkle through the lights that illuminatedthepropertydowntothebeach.Shecouldmakeouttheturbulentwaters,stillupsetfromthestorm—asiftheywereechoingwhatwasgoingonrightnowwiththeletter.UncleHankhadtodothis.AuntClarawasabrilliantwoman

andhehadto trusther judgment.Shehadaperspective thatwasfarclearerthantheirs,becausewhenshewrotethelettershedidn’thaveanymorelifeinfrontofhertoblurherclarity.

Suddenly,Hallie’sthoughtswereinterruptedbythedarkshadowthatwaswalking down the beach away from the property. The figure turned back,staring at thehouse, unmoving, chillingher to thebone.Couldhe seeher?Herbreathcaughtinherthroat.

“UncleHank,” shewhispered, pulling her phone out slowlywith shakyhands,hermovementsminimalincasethepersonouttherewaswatchingher.Sheheld thephoneoutofviewof thewindowandonlymovedhereyes tolookdownatitasshehitthenumberforthelocalpolice,whichshe’dsavedinhercontactsaftershe’dfirstheardaboutthetrespasser.“Someone’soutonthebeach,”shesaidquietly,notturningaround.“Don’tmove.I’mcallingthepolice.”Shehitthespeakericon.

Thephonerangtwicebeforesomeoneanswered.“ThisisHallieFlynnatStarlightCottage,”shesaid.“There’sanintruderontheproperty.”

“Telluswhereyousawtheintruder,Hallie,andwe’llsendsomeoneoutimmediately.”

“He’s on the beach, just down from the gazebo. He’s facing the houseright now.” She squinted in an attempt to get a description but she couldhardlyseeathing.Hewasjustanunnervingshadow,adarkform,makingthehairsonherarmsstandup.

“I’vealreadygottwocarsheadedthatway.Onehasthesearchdog.Theotherwaspatrolling in theareaandshouldbe theresoon.Lockupandstayput.”

“Okay.”Sheended thecalland then turnedaround to faceUncleHank,theupsettingpresenceof thestrangeratherbackmakinghernauseous.Shesatdown,pushingherbeeraway.

UncleHankwaslookingoutthewindow,withaclearviewofthemanonthebeach.“That’shim,”hesaid.“ThatlookslikethepersonIseeeverytime.Heusedtocomerightuptothewindow,buttheproblemwasthatIcouldn’t

get to it quickly enough to catchagoodglimpseofhim. Iwasworried I’dfall.He’dbehidingorgonebeforeIcouldgetthere.Andwhenhe’sfurtheraway, he’s never in a place where I can see more than a shadow. It’s sofrustrating.He’s alwaysdeliberatewithhismovements.Henever runs.Butevenstill,Ican’tgetasolidlookathim.Eversinceyouallcame,he’sstayedfurtheraway.”UncleHankcuthiseyesattheimage.“Youallprobablyscaredhimoff,sinceyou’reyoungandabletochasehimifhegetstooclose.”

She turned to look at the figure and saw him heading away from themdown the beach. Hallie silently prayed the police officers would find him.Would theygethere in time?“I’mgoing tocheck thedoors, and letMamaandSydneyknowsotheyaren’talarmedwhenthepolicecometothedoor.”

Just as shewas leaving the room, she saw the elongated beaming glowfromasearchlightstretchacrossthegrass.Theywerenearlyhere.

EIGHTEEN

“Do you want to press charges?” the police officer asked Uncle Hank, asHallie’suncle sat inoneof the twomatchingdarkbluebergère-stylechairsthatAuntClarahaddelightedinwhenshe’dredonethelivingroom.“We’vegothimoutinthecar.”

“Ithinkweshouldbringhimin,”Mamasaidfromthesofa.“Weneedtofindoutwhat’sgoingon.”

UncleHanksentadagger-likelookherway.

Sydney wasn’t offering any further advice, clearly allowing Mama tohandlethis.Sherubbedhershoulder,rollingherheadaround.Halliefeltthesameway.Thingshadtakentheirtolloneveryone,butthiswassomethingnoonehadseencoming.

Whenthepolicerequiredthetrespassertoidentifyhimself,themangavehis name:LewisEubanks. It allmade sensenow.Nowonder hewas in nohurrytogetoffthegrounds.Hewasanoldman;hecouldn’tmoveveryfast.Andthiswashisfamily.Butwhyhadn’thejustknockedonthedoor?Whatmadehimcower around,hiding in thebushes?Halliehadnever thoughtofUncleHankasapoorjudgeofcharacter,soifhedidn’tlikethisguy,shewasstartingtowonderiftherewasarealreason.Washeabadseedinthefamily?Shouldtheybewaryofhim?

“I’llbethejustwantshismoney,”UncleHanksaid.“Heprobablyheardabouthisinheritanceandhe’scometogetit,buthe’stoomuchofacowardtoaskmeforit.”

“Allright,”Mamasaid,standingupfromthesofa.“I’vehadaboutenough

ofthis.Ifyouwon’ttellmewhat’sgoingon,thenI’llhaveLewisdoit.Bringhimin.We’renotpressingcharges.”

TheyalllookedatMamawithwideeyes.

Uncle Hank didn’t speak, but it looked like his face would burst withanger.

“Howcanyoudropallcharges?Whatifhewasplanningtodosomethingawfultous?”Sydneyasked.

“He’sfamily,”shesaid.“AndAuntClarawantedhimwithuseverysingleholiday.Thattellsmethathe’sgood.”

“I’llbedamned!”UncleHankstoodwiththeforceofaneruptingvolcano.Hegrabbedthearmsofthechairtosteadyhimself,hiskneesbarelyallowingforthespeedatwhichherose.“He’salying,thieving,awfulperson!”

Mama considered Uncle Hank’s words for quite some time. Then, sheturnedtotheofficer.“Bringhimin.”

“Okay,”theofficersaid.“Wouldyoulikemetostay?”

“He’sseventy-eightyearsold,andhe’sfamily.Ithinkwe’llbejustfine.”ShewalkedtheofficertothedoorandHalliefollowed.

“I’lltellyouwhat.I’llstayinthecaruntilyougivemetheokaythatyouwon’tbeharmed.”Heopenedthedoor,mosquitoesbuzzingaroundtheporchlight asheexited thecottage.Hewalked to the squadcar,opened thebackdoor,andpermittedLewistoclimbout.

WhenLewismadeeyecontact,heseemedkindandgenuinelymortifiedbywhathadtranspired.Buthehadtoknowthatthiswouldhappenifhewereon thegroundsuninvited.Heclimbed theporchstepswithease,and itwasclearthathewasyoungerandinbettershapethanUncleHank,yethelookedsomuchlikehimthatnoonecoulddenythefact that theywererelated.HehadUncleHank’sbroad,definedfeatures, thesamehoodedeyes,andsilverhairthatwassosimilarHalliewasnearlysurethey’dbothhadthesamecolorgrowingup.

HegreetedMama.“Nicetomeetyou,”hesaid,breathless,assheshook

hishand.“I’myouruncle,”hesaid.“Hank’sbrother.”

UncleHankhadneversaidhehadabrother.AndfromthelookonMamaand Sydney’s faces, theywere just as surprised by it as Hallie was.WhenHallielookedoveratUncleHank,hewasn’tintheroomanymore,hischairempty.

“Comein,please,”Mamasaid,shuttingthedoorandusheringhiminsidethelivingroom.

Lewis’sgazesweptlovinglyoverthefurnishings,beforealoudbangofadoordrewtheirattentiondownthehallway.

“Here,”UncleHankbarked,marching in and jabbinga checkatLewis.HegrabbedLewis’shandtoshovethepaymentintohisgrasp,butLewisdrewback, thegreenandgraypersonal check from theEubanks’private accountflutteringtothefloor.ItwasmadeouttoLewisintheamountofonehundredthousanddollars.“Whatelsecouldyoupossiblywant?”

Lewisdidn’tflinchatUncleHank’sanger.Infact,hebehavedasifUncleHankwereactingtotallynormal,whichwasveryoddsinceHalliehadneverseenhimbehavelikethisinherentirelife.“Iwantedtomakesureyouwereokay,”Lewissaid,steppingoverthechecktohaveaseatonthesofa.Heranhishandalongthecushion.

“Get up,” Uncle Hank snapped. “You aren’t allowed to enjoy Clara’sfurniture.”

SydneywalkedoverandputahandonUncleHank’sarm,herconcernforhisstateclear.Hewasn’tingreathealthemotionallyalready.Hedidn’tneedthislevelofstress.

“I’m so sorry to haveworried you all,” Lewis said, turning away fromUncle Hank. “When I read that Clara had passed, I had to make sure mybrotherwasokay.Icheckedonhimalotatfirst,andIwasdelightedtoseeyou all come.Once you arrived, I onlywanted tomake sure someonewashere so I’d take my nightly walks onto the property. I live just outside ofFireflyBeach,soI’dwalktheroutetotheparkintownandcutthroughthehikingpathbetweentheparkandthecottage.Whenyouleft,Iwasgoingto

startcominguptoseehimagain.”

“Isn’titkindofstrange tobepeeking intosomeone’swindows?”Mamasaid,obviouslybotheredbyUncleHank’sresponsetohim.

“WhatchoicedidIhave?”Lewissaid.“YousawthereceptionIgotwhenIcamein.”

“Asyoushould,”UncleHanksaid,glaringathim.

“Itwassomanyyearsago,Hank;wewereallsoyoung.AndI’vebeenaskingyour forgiveness ever since it happened. I hadno right todowhat Idid,butlovemakesyoudocrazythings,thingsyounormallywouldn’t.”Hetookastepclosertohisbrother.“Shepickedyou,Hank,”hesaidinalmostawhisper.“Forfiftyyears,shepickedyou,withoutawaver.I’mnothingbutalonelyoldman.Forgiveme.”

UncleHankturnedawayfromhim.

Lewis addressedMama. “Thank you for not pressing charges,” he said.“IfI’dhaveknownIwasfrighteningpeople,Iwould’vefoundanotherwaytocheck on him. I’m so sorry.”Hewalked over to the door and opened it, awarm gust of summer wind blowing the check across the floor like aminiaturetumbleweed.“Iwon’tstay.Havingmehereisobviouslyupsetting.IonlywantedtomakesureHankwasallright.There’snothingelseIwant.”

“Wait,”Mamasaid.

Lewisturnedaround.

“It’slate.Youliveallthewaypastthepark.Whydon’tyoustay?”

“Iwouldn’tdareintrude,”hesaid,sendingasadlookovertoUncleHank.

“You can’t possibly walk home. It’s after ten o’clock.”Mama brushedpast Uncle Hank and shut the door. “I insist. Uncle Hank can pout all hewants,butyou’refamily.Hallie,couldyoustayintheguesthousetonight?I’llputsomenewsheetsonyourbedupstairsandwe’llletLewisstayhere.”

BeforeHalliecouldanswer,UncleHankcutin.“Thepoliceofficerisstillsittingoutside.Hecandrivehimhome,”hesaid,refusingtoacknowledgehisbrotherwithanythingmorethanaresponsetoMama.

“Oh!Mygoodness,”Mamasaid,rushingtothedoor.Shegavethepoliceofficerathumbs-upandawave,andsenthimonhisway.“Ican’taskthemanto give rides—that’s not his job,” she said, coming back inside. “Plus, wehavetogiveLewisAuntClara’sotherletter,remember?”

UncleHankwassilent,grindinghisjawandremainingdefiant.Finally,hesaid,“Anyofyoucoulddrivehimhome,butyouwon’t,willyou?Well,youdon’tknowwhathedid,soyou’remakingamistakeinvitinghimintoClara’shome. Ifhestays, I’llbeupstairs,andIwon’tcomedownuntilhe’sgone.”Thenhelefttheroom.

“I’ll drive him home,” Hallie suggested, feeling as if they were allganginguponUncleHank.

Evenifhewaswrong,StarlightCottagewashishouseandtheyshouldberespectfulofhiswishes.Anduntilshehadtheentirestory,shedidn’tliketheideaof thisman,whowasastranger to them,sleepingat theirhouse.Theyhadachildtoconsiderinallthis.Wastonight’satmospherewhatthey’dlikeRobbytowakeupto?

“I’lljustgrabmykeys,”shesaid,withoutallowinganyonetoofferfurthersuggestions.

Lewis lived in an unfussy little bungalow just outside of town, only a fewminutes’ drive from Starlight Cottage. If it hadn’t started to rain again, hedefinitelycould’vewalked.Hewasfitforhisage.He’dtoldHallieontheridethathespentalotoftimetravelingandhiking,andupuntilafewyearsagowhenhis back started giving himproblems, he even rock climbed.Hewassociableandkindheartedontheirdrive;nothinglikethepersonUncleHanksawwhenhelookedathim.ShewantedtoknowwhathadhappenedbetweenthetwobrothersandAuntClara,butsheneededtohearitfromUncleHankfirst.

Hallie lay inherbed in the sewing room,holdingherphone in thedimglowof lamplight.Even though she didn’t really knowwhere she andBenstood, shewanted to talk tohim to tellhimwhathadhappened tonight.He

had thisway about him that could always clear the clutter in hermind andmake her feel better about the situation. It was nearly midnight, now thatshe’dhadalongbathandgottenreadyforbed.TherewasamissedcallandvoicemailfromGavinthatshe’dchecklater,butrightnow,shewantedtohearBen’svoice.Shetextedhimtoseeifhewasawake.

Herespondedrightaway:Justlockingupthestudio.I’llcallyouinasec.

Afterafewminutes,herphonelitupandsheanswereditrightaway.

“You’reworkinglate,”shesaid.

“Yeah.I’mtryingtomovequickly.”

Shecouldhearthejingleofhiskeysasheopenedhiscardoorandthenthehumwhenheputheronspeakerphoneandstartedtheengine.

“Ihave somuch to tellyou,” sheblurted,wishinghewere there so shecouldseehisunderstandingeyesasshe toldhimeverything.She started in,talkingamileaminute,beginningwithAuntClara’slettertoUncleHankandcontinuing onwith barely a breath until the lastmoment of her day beforeshe’dclimbedintobedandcalledhim.

“SodoyoubelievewhatHanksaysabouthim?”heasked,hisvoiceclear.Thebackgroundwasquietnow;shemusthavetalkedallthewaytohishouse.

“Ibelieve thatUncleHankbelieves it.But likeany story, there are twosides.”

“Right,”hesaid.Sheheardtherushofwateratthesink.Thenthesoundquieted,andhisvoicewasatherearagain.“I’mcomingbacktomorrow.”

“That’sreallysoon,”shesaid,boththinkinghewascrazyformakingthatdriveagainsoquickly,andtotallyelatedatthethoughtofit.

“Weneedtotalk,”hesaid.

Fearswallowedher.Whatifhewantedtotalkabouttheirexchangeoverthechampagneorallthoseunsaidthoughtsthathealwayshad?Andifhewasready to discuss those things, what did she think about them? She tried todecipher the flutter in her stomachwhen she heard his voice tonight.Whatshedidn’twanttoadmittoherselfwasthatshefeltdifferentlyabouthimnow.

The love she felt was a different kind than the childlike adoration of heryouth,anditmadeherrealizethatiftheydidtalkaboutthis,she’dhavetotellhimeverything,thingsshestillhadn’thadthecouragetodisclosetoanyone.Washereadytohearwhatshehadtosay?

NINETEEN

Hallie headed downstairs for breakfast the next morning with a full dayalready planned. She was going to spend some time researching editingsoftware.

Gavin’smessagesaidthathecouldhelphereditherphotosfortheseries,andhe’d showher a fewof theprogramshe likedbest.When she’d textedhimthismorning,he’dtoldhertocomeoverassoonasshegotachance.

A pensive hush settled over the kitchen as everyone divvied out theirbreakfastthesamewaytheyhadallweek.Halliecouldn’thelpbutlookatthetwoemptychairsattheendofthetablealittledifferentlynow.AuntClara’sseatwasstillpulledoutjustabit.She’dhadaboutenoughofthis.

TheyalllookedupasHalliewalkedin,butsomethingcameoverherafterthinkingofAuntClaraandshecouldn’tbelieveshehadn’tdoneitsooner.Shewaved, giving them a lighthearted look, hoping the mood would brighten.NothingbututterconfusioncamefromSydney,aslightinterestfromMamaandRobby,anddefinitecuriosityfromUncleHank.

Gotime.

Hallie headed right back out of the room, ignoring Sydney’s whisper,“Whereisshegoing?”

Swiftly,sheenteredthelivingroomandsatdownatthepiano,raisingthelid.Then,sheplayed theonlysong thatUncleHankhad taughtherand theonlyonesheknew.Shejoviallybangedout“HappyBirthday”overandover,refusingtostop.Whennothinghappened,shestartedplayingandsingingasjoyfully as if it were a party. They all needed to just snap out of it for a

minute.

“Isitsomebody’sbirthday?”Robbysaidexcitedlyfromthekitchen.

“Singwithmeeee!HAPPYBIRTHDAYTOYOU…”Halliekeptplayingloudly.Her fingersmoved on the keys, finding the tune as easily as if shewerewellpracticed,andsheremindedherselfthatAuntClarawaslikelytherecheeringheronjustasshepromisedUncleHankshe’dbe.

Afterafewminutesmore,Halliemovedherfingersacross thekeysandstartedagainanoctavehigher.Andthenlower.

Finally,whenshe’dhithergrandfinalnote,justbeforebeginningagain,shenoticedUncleHankinthedoorwaywithhishandsoverhisears.“WhatinGod’snameareyoudoing?”heasked,tryingnottolaugh.

“You always played before breakfast.You played every singlemorningwhile Aunt Clara made her sausage and egg casseroles or her homemadepancakes,”shesaid.“AndnoonehasplayedbeforebreakfastsinceIgothere.Soifyouaren’tgoingtodoit,thensomeoneelsewillhaveto.AndthisisallIknowhowtoplay.”

Hegaveherawarylook.

“You’vegotmorework todohere,UncleHank,” shewhispered. “AuntClarasaidso,andweallknownottomesswithAuntClara.”

Hesmirkedalittle.

“Start right here,with your family. Robby doesn’t remember that appletreesongyouusedtoplaywhenwewerelittle.Heneedstofeelwhatit’slikeherefirstthinginthemorning—allthelaughter,thefunweusedtohave.Inourfamily,he’s thenextgenerationandyouare the lastofyourgeneration.Teachhimwhatourfamilyislike.”

WhenHankdidn’tsitdownnext toher,shestartedplayingagainas thewholefamilycametoseewhatshewasdoing.

“All right, all right,” Uncle Hank said, stilling her hands, the keysgroaninginprotest.“I’llplay.”Halliestoodup,givingUncleHankthewidthoftheentirekeyboard.Whenshedid,hepattedthebench.“Robby,comesit

here.”

Robbyclimbedup.

“AnyguesswherethemiddleCis?”UncleHankasked.

Robbyshookhishead.

“It’srighthere.”UncleHanktookRobby’slittlehandandputhisthumbinthesameplacehe’dputHallie’swhenshewasthatage.AsRobbypressedthekey, the tink tink tink of it gaveHallie goosebumps.Sydney andMamawerebeaming.

ThiswaswhatAuntClarawanted—Halliecouldfeelit.

“Canwetalkforaminute?”Sydneysaid,catchingHallieonthestairwayasshe went up to get her camera before leaving for Gavin’s. Sydney neverwantedto“talk”inthatsense,soclearlytherewassomethingbotheringher.

“Sure.”

Halliefollowedhersisterdownstairs.Theysettledintotworockingchairsonthebackporch.Thesunhadalreadyburnedthroughthelightmistofearlymorningandthegulfwasshimmeringinthesunlight.AuntClarahadalwayswornturquoisejewelry,andwhenHalliewasyoungsheusedtothinkthatitwas the gulf, captured there in the stones of her rings. Thewaterwas thatsame color today, and the storm had left the beaches combed flat by thenight’shightide.

Hallie’sgazewasstillonthewater, thewarmthjuststartingtopenetrateherskin,whenSydneycamerightoutwithwhatwasbotheringher.“DoyouandBenhavesomethinggoingon?”

“What?”Halliewhippedherheadaroundtohersister.“No.”Shecouldn’tgetanymorethanthatoutbecausetheburninginhercheekshadderailedanyabilitytocontestSydney’sobservationofthesituation.Butthetruthwas,theydidn’thavesomethinggoingon.Theyjusthadthesomething.Itwasn’tgoinganywhere.

“I’vealreadyspokentoBenaboutit.”

“Aboutwhat?”Mortificationwas swimming around inHallie’s eyes, soshelookedbackoutatthewatertohideit.

“YouknowwhatIthinkaboutallthisalready,andhowIfeelabouthavingBen there forRobby, but this conversation isn’t aboutme ormy child. It’saboutyou.Iseethehappinesshegivesyouwhenyoutalktohim,theabsolutereliefwhenhetexts.Look,itallsoundssoperfectrightnow.He’syourbestfriend.He’sanamazingguy.But things like thiscan ruin friendships—I’veexperienced it first hand. I don’t speak to Christian anymore. Not a word.Anything we had before our relationship has evaporated into thin air, andwe’vebeenreducedtocourtappearancesandchildsupport.Ican’tsitbyandwatchithappenagain.”

“Benwouldn’tcheatonme,”shesaidquietly,realizingthat thiswasthefirst time she’d admitted out loud that there could be something other thanfriendshipbetweenthem.Shekeptherfacetowardthewater,terrifiedtolookatthepaininhersister’sfaceforfearitwouldscarehertodeath.

“Iknowhewouldn’t,”Sydneysaidmorequietly.“But—andthisiswhatItold him too—itwould be terrible if the two of you realized that itwasn’tworkingandyouhadtopretendbecausebothofyouweretookindtoadmitittooneanother.Holdontothisfeelingthatyouhaverightnowanddon’tdoanythingtochangethat.Don’truinit.”

Halliesat silently.Shewas awareof her breathing, long, steadybreathsgoinginandout,thewaythecounselorhadtoldherinthedaysafter…Anydreams she had of finding that fairy tale life had already washed away.Sydneywasright,andHallieknewit.She’dbeensosweptupintherushofher feelings that she hadn’t taken time to think things through. Being atStarlightCottagehadtakenhermindoffitallforalittlewhile,andmadeherfeelmorelikethepersonshewasbeforeeverythingchanged.Butnow,itwastimetofacereality.

“Youdon’thave toworry.Ben isa familyguy.Heneedsa family;he’sgoing towant lots of kidswhen he finds that perfect person—and I’m nother,”Hallie said, herwords nearly awhisper, tears surfacing theway they

alwaysdidbeforesheforcedthewordsout.ForJeff.Forthecounselor.Andnow for her sister. “Jeff and I found out we were pregnant a few monthsbeforethewedding.”

Sydneygaspedbutdidn’tsayanything.Halliestillcouldn’tlookhersisterintheeyebecausethesurpriseonherfacewouldmakeHalliefeelevenmorelikeafailure.Shewasbroken.Againstherwill,andthroughnofaultofherown, the guilt she carried over it swarmed her like angry bees. “I lost thebaby,”shesaid,herfacecrumpling.“AndtheytoldmethatIshouldn’ttryformore.”Sheclosedhereyes,thenameofherconditionhittingherjustashardtodayasithadwhenshe’dfirstheardit.Halliefinallylookedathersister,atear running down her cheek. “They said I have something calledantiphospholipidsyndrome.”

Sydney, still speechless, shookherhead,notunderstandingwhat itwas,thesamewayHalliehadbeenwhenthedoctorhadsaidittoher.

“Myimmunesystemmistakenlyproducesantibodiesthatmakemybloodclotirregularly.Thedoctorprescribedmedicinetohelp.Butinmyparticularcase, Idoubt Icouldevercarryachild to term,andeven if Imanaged,myhealthwouldbesignificantlyatrisk.Ihadnoideauntiltheydidsometests.”

“My God, Hallie. I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry.” Tears welled up inSydney’seyesasshegotoutofherchairandthrewherarmsaroundHallie.

ThesobsthatHalliehadsuppressedexplodedfromherwiththeforceofarocket,herchestheavingassheburiedherfaceinhersister’sshoulder.She’dtriedtomoveforwardwiththings,toactnormally,butwhenitcamedowntoit, thiswasalwaysat the forefrontofhermindnow,andsheknew that lifecouldn’tbethesameeveragain.

Hallie gently pushedher sister back to look at her. “BendeservesmorethanwhatIcangivehim,”shesaid.“Soyoudon’thave toworryaboutmemessingthingsup.”Asshesaidit,thedespairofnevergettingachancetoseewhatmighthavebeendescendeduponher,strongerthaniteverhadbefore.

TWENTY

HalliepulledupatGavin’shousejustalittlebeforelunchtime.He’dpromisedherhomemadepizzaandlemonadewhiletheyworkedonhercollection,andshewashappyforthediversion.Thetruthwasthatherdiagnosiswasapartofwhoshewas,andwhileshewouldstillgetlowaboutitattimes,liketoday,shehadtotellherselftorememberAuntClara’swordsaboutmakingthemostofherlife.

Itwasascorcherofaday,andGavinhadtoldUncleHankhe’dworkonpaintingthetriminthelateafternoon,oncethesunwasbehindthetrees,andthe next two hours or so would be devoted to art. When Hallie saw thecounselorafterherdiagnosis,shefoundthattheartisticexpressiontherapieswere themost helpful for her, and she’d definitely felt happier after beingimmersedinherphotography,sosheclearedhermindandspentthedrivetoGavin’sfocusingonherideasforexpandingbeyondthephotographyfortheCoastal Comfort brand. While she loved taking pictures, a tiny urge waspushinghertodomore.

“Pizza’sintheoven.Ifiguredwecouldgetstraighttowork,”Gavinsaid,meetingheronthefrontporch.Holdingopenthescreeneddoor,hecontinued,his eyes sparklingwith excitement. “Your shots are incredible on the largescreenandI’vegotsomanyconceptsalready.”Hewasdressedcasually,andshenoticedafewspecksofpaintonhisshirt.

“Were youworking?” she asked, setting her bag containing her cameraandlaptopunderthehalltable,hisenthusiasmlikeabreathoffreshair.

“Yes.Iwasputtingafewfinal touchesonmylatestpaintingjustbefore

youcame.Wouldyouliketoseeit?”

“I’dloveto.”

“Okay. But first, lemonade.” He swept through the kitchen, filling twoMason jars with ice and juice, handing her one. His movements werebecoming familiar now, and his relaxed demeanor made her feel at home.“Followme!”

Gavin tookHallieupstairs.Shehadn’tbeenupstairs inhishomebefore,andassheascendedtheoriginalwoodenstaircase,shefeltthepersonalnatureofwhere shewas going.Thiswaswhere the bedroomswere and the placewhere he painted. She felt a little like an intruder, but his smile wascontagiousandmadehercuriousastowhatshewouldseeoncetheywereatthetop.

Thestaircaseledtoanenormousopenspace,theentirebackofitnothingbutwindowsthatallowedlighttofilltheroomandofferedextensiveviewsofthegardens,takingherbreathaway.Againstthefresh,whitewallsthegreenofoutsidescreamedforattention,butsheforcedherfocustowardthecornerwhereGavinhadplacedaneasel,thehardwoodfloorsdottedwithpaint.

Halliewalkedovertoit.

“Doyoulikeit?”heasked,standingbesideher.

She set her lemonade down on one of the tarps next to the wall andreturnedtothepainting,herentireattentionononlythat.“Ohmygoodness,”wasallshecouldsay.Itwasacrylic,usingbig,chunkystrokes,butasawholecreatingthemostgorgeousdesign.Therewasagreencirclemadeofbuddingbranches, with varying shades of olive and chocolate, and in the mostbeautifulcursivescript in thecenter, it said,“CoastalComfort.”Butbehindthelogo,coveringtheentirecanvas,asifthelogowerestampedontopofit,was a very lightly painted, translucent version of her photograph of AuntClara’swhiterocker.Shecouldn’thaveimaginedabetterdesign.Itwascleanyet feminine, natural and inviting—just like Aunt Clara. She had to blinkawayhertearsofhappiness.

“It’sonlyan idea,but ifyou like it, Icanhang it in thegallerybyyour

photos—I’veclearedoutaroomforthem—andIcanmakeadigitalimageofitthatyoucanuseforstationeryandbusinesscards.Yourbrand.”

Shewantedtohughim.“It’sperfect.”

“I’m glad you like it,” he said, smiling at her, clearly elated that he’dimpressedher.

“I just feel bad that you’re going to all this trouble…What if nothingsells?”

Hissmilewidened.“Itisn’taboutthemoney,”hesaid.“It’saboutdoingwhatyoulove,whatyouwereputonthisearthtodo.Ifyougetitright,themoneywillfindyou.Watchandsee.”

Shebelievedhim.AuntClara’sbusinesswasaperfectexampleofthat.

“Wannadoalittleediting?”heasked.

“Absolutely!”Halliewas in her element. Ideaswere coming faster thanshecouldgetdownthestairs.“I’mimaginingamovementofmutedcolorasthe eye travels around the room in the gallery. Somaybe five to six of thewhitephotos,framedinblackandcharcoalgray,andthenaddintheburlap-framedprint,movingintosomeofthetanshotslikethesandatFireflyBeachand the dock. The color can slowlymove to turquoise, so the entire roomtakesonthefeelofthecoast.”

“YouhaveaverystronggraspofCoastalComfortalready,”Gavinsaidastheyreachedthekitchen, thetimergoingoffontheoven.Hepulledout thepizzaandsetitonatrivet.

“I feel like it’s even bigger than what we’ve already thought of. I’mwondering if I could pair with local merchants to match furniture andaccessories to the prints. Wouldn’t it sell more photographs to havecoordinating sand-colored throws,white sofas, and seaside-themedcandles?CoastalComfortcouldbeanall-inclusivetheme.Designsfortheaccentshavebeenfloatingaroundinmyhead.”

Gavinrolledthecutterthroughthepizza,hisdelightclear.“Soundstomelikeyourauntwasn’ttheonlydesignerinthefamily.”

Halliehadbeensobusycreatinginhermindthatitwasn’tuntilhesaiditthatitactuallyoccurredtoherthatthiswasexactlythekindofthingthatAuntClarawouldbeapartof.WitheverythinggoingoninHallie’sliferightnow,she found these discussionswithGavin to be like oxygen for her deprivedsoul.

“After we have lunch, let’s get that software up and running on yourlaptopsoyoucangetstarted.Itsoundslikeyou’vegotbigplansforCoastalComfort.”

“Ben!”RobbytoreoutthefrontdoorpastHallieandSydney,racingdownthedrive at Starlight Cottage toward Ben’s parked jeep. He’d been watchingthroughthewindoweversinceBenhadtextedwhenhe’dstoppedforlunchtogive an approximate arrival time. Beau bolted from the backseat, nearlyknockingRobbyoverwithkisses,histailwaggingfeverishly.

“HiBeau.”RobbygiggledbeforeBendirected thedog towardaball inhishand.HechuckeditoffintotheyardandBeauranafterit.

“That’snottheonlyballIbrought,”Bensaid,reachingintothebackseatand holding up a football. “Ready?Go long!”Robby ran at full speed, hishead twisted around towatch for the pass, his legsmoving as fast as theycould go. Ben sent the ball sailing across the yard, spiraling like a bulletstraightintoRobby’sarms.Robbycradledit,changingdirectionandsprintingfullspeedovertoBen.

“Didyoumissme?”Bensaid,pickinghimupandspinninghimintheair.

“Yes!”Robbysquealed,clutchingtheballasBenwhirledhimaround.

“Arewegoingtoplayfootballlater?”Bensethimdown.

“Youbetweare!ItcanbeyouandHallieagainstMamaandme!”Withallhismight,Robbytossedtheballupintotheair.Itflewupnearthetopsofthepalmtreesthatlinedthewalk.

Asitcamebackdown,Bengrabbeditwithonehand.ThenhepitcheditbacktoRobby.“Ican’twait,”hesaid,buthiseyeshadalreadyfoundHallie

ontheporch.

Seeinghimagainwas likecominghomefroma long trip, likecrawlingintoherownbedafterbeingawayfromit.Shewaved.

“Let’sgiveBenandHalliealittletime,okay?”Sydneysaid,puttingherarm aroundRobby’s shoulder and guiding him toward the house. She gaveHalliealookofcautiononthewayinsidebutHalliedidn’tneedit.Shehadenoughtorestrainherselfallonherown.

Bennoddedtowardthebeach,hisgazenotleavingHallie.Shemethiminthe drive and, together, they started heading toward the water. Beau wasalreadyontheshore,hisballtumblinginthelightsurfashebouncedaroundit, plunging his snout into the waves and sneezing, clearly pretending hecouldn’tgetit,histailgoingahundredmilesanhour.

“Guess what I sawwhen I passed through town,” Ben said.When shedidn’tanswer,herespondedtoherquestioninglook.“They’resettingupforthe Firefly Beach fair.” He was making small talk, but those eyes of hisdevouredherwhenshesmiled.

Hallie had wonderful memories of that fair. “At least we won’t get introuble this time if we walk into town on our own to get Mable’s applefritters.”

Ben chuckled at thememory.MableownedBerkley’sFarmon thewayintotown.Whileshewasknownforsellingthebestproduceintown,everyyearatthefair—onlyonceayear—shemadeapplefritters,usingherfamilyrecipe.Theywereahit, andeveryonewantedher tomake themyear-roundandstocktheminthefarmshop,butsheinsistedononlymakingthemforthefair toencouragepeople tocomeoutandsupport thecommunity.Fordays,shepreparedforit,andthewholeweekbeforethefair,theentirefarmhouseatBerkley’ssmelled likeapple fritters,makingeveryoneantsyfor thesightofthatFerriswheelonthehorizon.

“Weshouldgo,”hesaid,leadinghertothedock.Beautrotteduptogreetthemand then ran along thebeach, disappearing in the long shadowof thelighthouse.“WecouldtakeRobby.”Bensatontheedgeofthedockwhereitmetthesand,andpattedthespacebesidehim.

“Yeah, he’d like that.” Hallie sat down and slipped off her flip-flops,digging her feet into the white sand. She focused on the grand porch thatstretchedalongthebackofStarlightCottagewhereAuntClarausedtosit,butshecouldn’tkeepherviewoffofBenforlong,returninghergazetohis.

“How’severythinghere?”heasked,clearlytryingtoworkhiswayuptotheloomingtopic,butshewasgladtohavealittlemoretimebeforetheyhadtofaceit.

Hallie got Ben up to speed on the latest events at the cottage, and shefoundherselfchattingendlesslyabout the logoGavinhadmadeforherandtheeditingsoftwarehe’dhelpedherdownloadforherphotography.Perhapsitwasherowncopingstrategytoavoidtheweightyeventsinherlife,butshejust wanted to share her excitement with Ben. It felt so good when heencouragedher.

“SoundslikeyouandGavinreallyhit itoff,”hesaid,andshecouldseethatbrainofhisfillingwithquestions.“Youtwoarebecomingfastfriends.”He smiled, but by the slight hesitancy he showed, Hallie felt the need toclarifytheirrelationship.

“We’vereallybondedcreatively,”shesaid.“Butthat’sall.”

HerassessmentwasrightbecauseBenlookedsurprisedthatshe’dreadhisthoughts so easily. “You don’t have to try to protect my feelings, Hallie.They’vegottenpretty rock solid from seeing youdate guys over the years.Justdowhatmakesyouhappy.”

Hallieblewairthroughherlipsinfrustration.“Iwishitwerethateasy.”Thethoughtcameoutasanaturalreactiontowhathe’dsaid,beforeshe’dhadachancetothinkabouthowshe’dexplain.

“Whatdoyoumean?”

ThiswouldbetherighttimetotellBenaboutwhatreallycausedherandJeff’s demise.Without even meaning to, she’d set it up perfectly. But thewordsgotcaughtinherthroat,andshecouldn’tutterthem.Sheknewexactlywhy. Ben was the last person she wanted to know about her real troublesbecauseshelikedthewayhelookedather,asifshewereapossibilityforhis

future.

TwoexpressionsofJeff’swereburnedinhermemory:theelationhehadwhen she’d told him they were going to have a baby, and then the utterdisappointment inhiseyeswhenshebroke thenews that they’d lost it, andnotonlythat,buttheywouldneverhearthepatteroflittlefeet.Theyhadn’trecoveredasacoupleafterthat.Intheirdarkestmoments,Jeffhadmadeherfeel like she’d stolen something from him. When it came to Ben, Halliewanted him to have everything his heart desired—and she knew he’deventuallywantafamilywithchildrenofhisown.

“What’s thematter?” Ben’s concerned face came into her view. “Whathappened?Istheresomethingyouwanttotellme?”Hetookherhand,hissoftcaressmakingtheacheinherheartworse.

Blinkingaway tears, she said, “No.There’snothing Iwant to tell you.”Whichwastrue.Sheneverwantedtotellhim.

Hewasvisiblytryingtoprocessherhugeswinginemotion,attemptingtomakesenseof it and findanswers,but sheknewhecouldneverguess this.Hersecretwassafe.Thenarealizationslidoverhisface.“Wehaven’tdoneanythingwrong,” he said. “You look like you feel guilty of something, butthere’snothingtofeelguiltyabout.I’mnotwithAshleyanymore.”

Sheknewthat,butitdidraisethequestionastowhy.SheconsideredpoorAshley in all this. She’d done nothing wrong. “Why not, Ben? She’swonderful.”Halliewasn’tjusttryingtomovethefocusoffherself.Shereallybelievedtheywereagreatcouple.“Ilikeheralot.ShelistenstothemusicIdo.Shehasthesamesenseofhumor…”

Benstoodupandranhishandsthroughhishair.“Yeah,thetwoofyouareverysimilar.Thatwaswhatdrewmetoher.Andthat’snotfairtoher.”

“Butyoucanlikesimilarqualitiesinpeople,right?Therehastobesomeotherreason.Whydidyouleaveher?”

He was slowly pacing around, and she could tell that the conversationmadehimuncomfortable,whichwasunusual forhim.Nothing ruffledhim.“Whydidyoujustbreakupwithheroutofnowhere?”shepressedhim.

“Because she wasn’t you,” he blurted. His body stilled, his shouldersfallenindefeat.“Shewasn’tyou,”hesaidagainmorequietly.“Ididn’twanttotellyouthatI lefther,becauseitwaseasiernottoactonmyfeelingsforyouifyouthoughtwewerestilltogether.”

“Whydidn’tyouwanttoactonyourfeelingsforme?”

Hesatbackdownbesideher. “It’swhat I’mused todoing,”he said. “IlovedyoulongbeforeImetAshley.I’vealwayslovedyou,butIfirstrealizedhowharditwastolivewithoutyoumyfreshmanyearincollege.WhileweallpiledintothestudentuniononSaturdaynights,laughingandcarryingon,thetruthwasthatmostofthoseguyswerehidinghowhomesicktheywere.Iwasn’thomesick.Iwaslovesick.I’dlieinbedandstruggletosleep,knowinghowfarawayyouwere,achingtoseeyou.”

“Whydidn’tyousaysomethingthen?”

“I didn’t want to pull you away from new experiences.Wewere threestatesapart.Allmyadmissionwould’vedonewascauseyoutocomebacktothepast,wherewewere.Iwantedyoutoseewhatelsewasoutthere,tohaveachancetofollowyourdreams.”

“Andaftergraduation?Youcould’ve toldme then.”Hallie felt the tearscoming.Foraninstant,shethoughtthatifshe’dknownthisbeforeeverythinghad gone wrong, maybe by some miracle her life would’ve turned outdifferently.Butifshewerehonestwithherself,sheknewthatshe’dhavemetthesamefateanyway.

“Istruggledtofindtherighttime.Iwantedtogiveusbothspacetofigureoutwhowewere,andafterawhileIgotusedtoholdingontomyfeelings,waiting until it felt right.When Jeff came along, I thought I’d lost you. Icouldn’t think straight. I was in my head all the time, my work wassuffering…IforcedmyselftomoveforwardandIstarteddatingAshley.”

Hallie wiped a runaway tear from her cheek, her heart feeling like itwouldburst.Shecouldn’tbelievehe’dfeltthiswayforsolong…

“Whenyoucalled to tellmeyouandJeffhadbrokenup, itwas likeI’dbeengivenasecondchance.Atsomepointoverthesummer,IknewI’dhave

totellyouthetruthabouthowIfeltorriskthepainofneverknowingwhatcould’vebeen.AndI’d learnedfromyourengagement that Ican’t livewiththatkindofpain.

“IcalledthingsoffwithAshleyandliterallyrantoyou.ButIquicklyfeltthatyouhadtoomuchonyourplatealready.AndyousaidyourselfthatyoulovebeingwithmebecauseIdon’twantanythingmorethanwhatwealreadyhave.Butthat’snotcompletelytrue…”

Hallie sniffled, trying togetherself together, but she couldn’t.Her eyeswerefillingwithtears,blurringhervision.

Benlookedoutoverthewater.Beauwasdiggingaholedownthebeach.

Shewasn’t surewhat to say.Hernew feelings forBenweredifficult tomanage,andshefeltunsureofhowtomoveforwardbecauseallshewantedtodowaswrapherarmsaroundhimandtellhimhowshefeltabouthim,butshecouldn’t.Herheadthrobbedandherchestachedwiththatreality.Shewasshaking,stunnedbyherrushoffeelings,terrifiedbytheneedtofeelhistouchandtohavehislipsonhers.

Shecouldtellhewastryingtofigureoutwhyshe’dclammedupbefore,whenshewassureitwassoobviousbyherreactionnowhowshefelt.If itwasn’tguiltoverAshley,thenithadtobesomethingelse…That’swhatwasgoing throughhismind, shewascertainof it.Understanding showed inhisface—ofwhat,shewasn’tsure.

“Hallie,Igetit,”hefinallysaid.“I’mnottheguyforyou.”

He’dmisinterpretedher emotion.Hemust have thought shewas cryingbecause shedidn’t love him and she knewhowmuch thatwould hurt him,whenthingscouldn’tbefurtherfromthetruth.

Hetookinadeepbreathandputhishandsonhisknees,hanginghisheadasifheneededtogethimselftogether.“Itwon’tchangeanythingbetweenus.It neverhasbefore.”He satup and looked intoher eyes. “Like I said, I’vebeen in love with you as long as I can remember. And through all yourboyfriendsandloveinterests,I’mstillhere.”

He didn’t understand at all. But then it occurred to her that she could

allowhimtobelievethatwastheissue.Thenshecouldmoveonwithherlifeandhecouldmoveonwithhis.Benwouldfindsomeonewonderfulandhavethehappilyeverafterhewasdestinedtohave…AndsheandBencouldgobacktobeingthewaythey’dalwaysbeen.Itbrokeherheart,andshedidn’tknowhow shewouldmanage if she did let himbelieve it, but itmade themostsense.

“I’m sorry,” she said, her voice breaking. Shewas sorry. Sorry that shecouldn’tgivehimwhathedeserved.Maybeonedayshe’dhavethestrengthtotellhimwhy.Shewipedthetearsthathadfallenbeforelosingherselfinhisblueeyes.“Iloveyou,”shewhispered.“Ido.”

Withincrediblecomposure,Benleanedoverandgentlykissedhercheek,onlysucceeding in tearingherapart,becausesheknewthathe lovedhersomuchthathe’dpushedallhisfeelingsdownsoshewouldn’tfeelawfulaboutrejectinghim.Hepressedhisforeheadtohers.“Iloveyoutoo.”Hetippedhisheadbackandletoutalittlegroanoffrustration.ThenhestoodandwhistledforBeauwhile grabbingHallie’s hands andpulling her up. “Time tomoveforward.Noregrets,”hesaid,lookingoveratthehouse.“I’vegotafootballgametoplay.”Heproducedasmile.“AndIneedareceiver.Youupforit?”

Halliewipedanother tear,chasingthemawaywithachuckle,but itwasfollowedbyasob.Herbreathcaughtassheclearedit.“Yeah.”

“Okay,”hesaid,asBeaunearedthem.“Let’sgo.”Withthesoftwindattheirbacks,theyheadeduptoStarlightCottagetogether,Ben’shandinhers.

TWENTY-ONE

“Weneedmusic!”Bensaid,justbeforerunningbackinsidethecottage.

AfterBenandHallie’sdiscussion,havingdinnerwiththefamilyseemedtolifttheirmood.Robby’sexcitementovertheirupcomingfootballgamehadkepttheconversationlightandhappy.They’dspentmostofthedinnerhourchattingaboutthegame,Robbytalkingmorethanhehadallweek,decidingwith Ben where they should set up the field, dividing the teams, anddiscussing running plays. Ben made a joke about climbing over Hallie’sshoulderstocatchtheballasoneofhissecretplays,andevenMamalaughed,her amusement causing the whole table to chuckle. Uncle Hank had alsoaskedHallietotelleveryoneaboutthephotographsshe’dtakenwithGavin,andasshetoldthemallherideasaboutCoastalComfort,shecouldfeeltheenergy that she’d thought had drained away seeping back in. Uncle Hankhadn’tstoppedsmilingsincedinner.ThebuoyantatmospheregaveHallietheability to push her emotions back down, nearly burying them where shewishedthey’dstay.

ChairsweresetupalongtheedgeoftheyardforUncleHankandMama,who’d taken their seats for the big game.Mama had her legs crossed, oneflip-flop dangling from her toes as her foot bouncedwith anticipation. Shewassmiling,contented,remindingHallieofyearspastwhentheyusedtoallsit outside together around the evening fire, toasting marshmallows andtellingstories,theirfaceswarmfromthefireandtoomuchsun.Today,MamahadpoppedcornanddishedsomeoutforUncleHank.Beauwaswaitinginthewingsforanythatcamehisway.

UncleHankhadn’tprotestedwhenBenaskedhimifhe’dwatchthegame

outside. Hewas sitting next toMama, a tall glass of iced tea in his hand,looking toward the lighthouse on the beach, just like he used to do beforepointingoutthefireflieswhenHalliewaslittle.

Hallie realized shehadn’t seen the firefliesverymuch thisyear.They’dbeensobusysincethey’darrivedthatshehadn’tgoneouttothebeachduringtheslipoftimewhenthesunhadyettocompletelysurrendertonight.Thatwaswhenthefirefliesfilled thecoast.Atdusk,whentheskyoverStarlightCottagewasabrilliantmixtureofshades—oranges,pinks,andpurples—withallthoselittlewhiteblinkinglightsfromthefirefliesdottingtheshore,itwasan incredible sight. She promised herself she’d spend an evening out theresoon.Hallie squinted in thedirectionof thebeach, followingUncleHank’slineofvision,butshedidn’tseeanyyet.

Oneofthelivingroomwindowsslidopenfrominsidethecottageandaspeakersurfaced through the screen, the thump of drums rumbling out andoverthemakeshiftfootballfieldthatBenandRobbyhadsetupafterdinner,using toy orange cones. The sound of horns came blaring forth over thedrums, giving the entire yard the musical atmosphere of a party. Robby,wearingthefootballjerseyBenhadgottenhimforChristmaslastyear,wasinthecenterof the field,kneesbending,hipsmoving, arms flailing around indance.Sydneyjoinedhim,wigglinghershoulderstothebeat.

Halliewasgladforthedistraction.

Ben jogged back down the front stepswith the football under his arm.“So,we’replayingtofive!Robby,doyouhavethecoin?”

RobbyrummagedaroundinthepocketofhisshortsbeforeholdingupthequarterthatBenhadgivenhimatdinner.

“Headsortails?”BenaskedhimoverthemusicwhenhemetRobbyonthefield,settingtheballdowninfrontofthem.HallieandSydneygatheredaroundthem.BenmusthavenoticedHallie’scontemplativemoodbecausehegrabbedherhandandgaveheraquickspintothemusictomakehersmile.

“Heads!”RobbynoddedexcitedlytoSydney.Thenheputthecoinonhisthumband flipped it into the air. It fellwith a small thud onto the ground,Robbyjoggingovertoit.“It’sheads!”hecalled.

Benplucked it fromthegrassand tossed itover toMama.“Okay, then!Yourchoice:whogetstheball?”

“Youstart!”RobbypickeduptheballandlobbeditovertoBen.

“Allright!Takeyourplaces!”

RobbyranoverbesideSydneyandputhishandsonhisknees,waitingfortheplay.Hallie linedupbehindBenwhohad theball inbothhandson theground, ready tohike it.Ben lifted theball, and it flew intoHallie’shands.Shedartedplayfully aroundRobby just asBen scoopedhimup and swunghim into the air before gently pretending to tackle him, laying him on thegrass.Hallierantotheendoftheyardforatouchdown.

“Oooooh!” Ben teased Robby and Sydney, as Hallie spiked the ball.“You’regonnahavetoanswertothat!”

Robbygrabbedtheballandrantothecenterofthefield.“Wewill!Youbetterwatchout,Ben!Mama,getready!”Robbyplacedtheballonthegrass,his littlehandsbarelyreachingacross thesurfaceof it.HallieandBen tooktheirspotsondefense.“Hike!”RobbycalledashesenttheballsailingtowardSydney,whocaughtitandstartedrunning.RobbydodgedHallie,andSydneythrew the ball over her sister’s head right intoRobby’s arms.Benwas justbehindhim, butwith awink toHallie he faked runningwith all hismight,lettingRobbyreachtheendzone.

“One toone!”Robbysang,dancingaround in time to thesong thatwasplaying.

“It’saclosegame!”UncleHanksaidfromthesidelines.Hehadhisicedtea in one hand and a fistful of popcorn in the other.Mamawas clappingbesidehim.“It’sthelittleonesthatsurpriseyou,Ben!”UncleHanksaidwithachuckle.“They’refasterthanyouthink!”

“That’s right!”Robby said, handing theball off toBen to start thenextplay.

Thegame continued the sameway it started, untilHallie andBenwereonepointdowntotieitatfivetofive.Robbyhadhisgamefaceon,thehairatthebackofhisneckwetwithperspirationandahugesmileonhisface.“You

can’tgetpastme!”hetauntedBen.

Atthestartoftheplay,Bentookoffwiththeball,passingRobby.Likeaflash,Robby’slittlelegsworkingovertime,hethrewhimselfontoBen’sback,wrapping his limbs aroundBen. Ben could’ve easily run to the end of theyard,butinsteadfelltothegroundasifRobbyhadtackledhim,droppingtheballandrollingontohisback.“Yougotme!”

Robbystoodupandcheered,hisarmspumping.“Wedid it,Mama!”hecalledtoSydney.Then,asBensatup,Robbythrewhisarmsaroundhisneck,andasBentwirledhimintheair,thedelightwasclearonbothoftheirfaces.Inthatmoment,Halliewassurethathoweverdifficultitwasforher,shewasmakingtherightdecisionlettingBengo.

“What’re you up to?” Hallie asked Sydney when she came into the livingroom.

The otherswere all in bed andBen had gone to the guesthouse for thenight.Halliecurledupon thesofabesidehersister,whowas typingonherlaptop.Sydneycloseditandexhaledananxiousbreath.

“You’vebeensoconcernedwithhavingtocompleteAuntClara’slist,butI’mkindofenviousofit.”

“What?” Hallie folded her legs under her and grabbed the afghan thatAuntClarahadalwayskeptonthearmofthesofa,drapingitoverherlegs.Inthesummer, that roomwasalwayschillyatnightfromtheairconditioning,andHallie’sthinT-shirtandpajamashortsweren’tenoughtokeepherwarm.

“Inher letter tome,AuntClaragavememoneyandtoldmetoquitmyjobanddosomethingIloved.SheknewIhatedbeingaparalegal.”

“Weallknewyouhatedit.”Halliegrinned.

WhenChristian left,Sydneyhad tohaveherown income, andwithherdegreeshelandedapositionatasmall lawfirm.Atthetime,she’dbeensorelievedtobeabletopaythebills,butthemoreshegotintoit,themoresherealized itwasn’twhat she should be doingwith her life. Tomakematters

worse,shehadanawfulbosswhobarelyeverlethertaketimeoffforRobby,andalwaysseemedputoutwhenshe’dhavetotakeasickday.

“Andwhen I blabbered on about howmuch I hated it, you’d say, ‘Youneedtofindsomethingelse.’”Shepickedatapieceoffringeontheafghanand then pulled a corner of the blanket over her own legs, sharing it withHallie.“Ididn’tfindsomethingelsebecauseIdon’tknowwhatI’msupposedtodo.AuntClaradidn’tgivemeanyideaslikeshegaveyou.Thetwoofyouweresoclose thatI feel likesheworkeda littleharderonwhat togiveyouthanshedidtherestofus.Lookathowyourphotographyiscomingalong;it’sleadingyouwhereyouwanttogo.You’reextremelytalentedandIcan’twaittoseewhathappenswhenyouputCoastalComfortoutthere.”

HalliehadthoughttheexactoppositeaboutAuntClara’sinstructions,butnowhersister’spointofviewseemedjustasvalid.

“ToobadIdidn’twritealistwhenIwastwelve,”shesaid.“Iwrotelettersto boy bands instead, trying to get them to do events near me.” Sydneylaughedatherowncomment.

“Youcouldbeapublicist,”Halliesaidwithagiggle.

“Very funny.” Sydney shook her head, amused. She opened her laptopagain. “Iwas looking at jobs…”She paused. “Here at FireflyBeach.” ShemetHallie’sgaze.

“Areyouthinkingaboutstaying?”

“Maybe.UncleHankcouldusesomeone to takecareof thecottageandRobby’s alreadycomfortablehere. It just seems like theperfect place toberightnow.”

Hallie couldn’t imagine not having her sister just down the road inNashville,orseeingherpoppingintoMama’shousewhenHallieandMamawere having coffee, like they did on the weekdays when Hallie was outrunningerrands for theagency.Shealwaysmadea sneakystopbyMama’sandhadalittlechatbeforeheadingbacktowork.Butthenagain,everythingelse seemed to be unrecognizable about her life. Hallie tried not to let heruneaseaboutitshow.

“IwonderedifUncleHankwouldletmepayrentsoRobbyandIcouldliveintheguesthouse.”

“I doubt he’d charge you a thing.” Hallie shifted closer to her sister.“Whatjobswereyoulookingat?”sheasked,noddingtowardthelaptop.

“Thereareafewoffice jobs,butnone that reallyhitme,”shesaid.“I’llkeep looking though.”Her facebrightened. “Butguesswhat Idid see!TheFireflyBeachfairisopeningtomorrownight.”

“Bentoldme!Iwanttogo.”

Sydney’s face dropped in concern at themention of Ben’s name. “Youtwookay?Youbothwereputtingonabravefrontatdinnerbut I could tellsomethingwasgoingonbetweenyoutwo.”

Hallie felt theache inching itswayback in.“We’reokay.”Sheabruptlystoodupandfoldedtheafghan.“It’slate,”shesaid.“Mamawillhaveusallupbrightandearlyforbreakfast,sowe’dbetterheadtobed.”

Sydneycouldobviouslyreadbetweenthelinesbecauseshesetherlaptoponthetable,stoodupinfrontofHallie,andgaveherahug.“Everythinghasawayofworkingout.”

While she wanted to believe that, Hallie wasn’t so sure. But what sheneededtodowasholdontotheideathatshecouldstillmakethebestofwhatlife had given her. Standing there in a room that was filled with gloriousmemories,shethoughtaboutAuntClara.Shehadn’thadanychildrenandherlifehadbeenamazing.AuntClarahadmadeanimpactoneveryoneshemet;mostimportantly,herfamily.Hallievowedtogiveiteverythingshehadanddothesame.

TWENTY-TWO

Aneight-year-oldHalliewasinherfavoriteyellowsundressandbrand-newtap shoes thatAuntClara hadbought her. Shewasdancing, her new shoespattering against the hardwoods, the dress fanning out around her, whileUncleHankplayedthepiano.AuntClaratookherhandsandspunheraround,andHalliewondered if the potatoeswere going to burn on the stove, theirsizzlingcomingthroughduringthepausesinthemusic.

“Youare really something,mydear,”AuntClara said, beaming. “Don’teverbeafraidofanything.Justjumpin…”

Knock.Knock.

Halliewasawareofcrispsheetsunderher.

Knock.Knock.

Thesunshonethroughhereyelidsandsherealizedshe’dbeendreaming.

“Hallie?”Mama’s voice came from her door,whichwas cracked open.“I’vegotpotatoesandeggsonthestovesoIhavetohurry,butIwantedtogetyouup.Breakfast is almost ready. I hadRobby runout and tellBen in theguesthouse.Comeondown,okay?”

“Okay,”shesaid,hervoicegroggy.

After Mama left, Hallie squeezed her eyes shut and tried to see AuntClara’s face again.Shewanted todrift off, back to thatplace and that timewhen everything was all right, when the music played. And for a second,Hallie thoughtshehadfallenbackasleepuntil,witha jolt,sherealized thatshewasn’t dreaming. Someonewas downstairs playing piano, and the only

onewhoknewhowtoplaylikethatwasUncleHank.

Halliesatuprightinbed,threwthecoversoffherlegsandrandownstairs,stoppingatthebottomtofindUncleHankinthelivingroom,hisbacktoher,hisfingersmovingfluentlyonthekeys,thegloriousmusicofherchildhoodfloodingtheroom.Justthesightofitbroughttearstohereyes.ThatwastheUncleHanksheknew.Sheranovertohimandthrewherarmsaroundhim.

Hisfingersstilledandhelookedather.“IdreamedofClaralastnight,”hesaid.“ShetoldmeI’dbettergetinhereandplay.”

Halliechokedbackhertears,findingitmorethanacoincidencethatshe,too,haddreamedofAuntClara.SherackedherbraintotrytorememberwhatAuntClarahadsaid,andthenitcametoher:Don’teverbeafraidofanything.Justjumpin.Itdidn’tmakeanysensetoher.Butthatdidn’tmatterbecauseUncleHank’sdreamdidmeansomethingtohim.

“Lookin’good,MissFlynn.”Ben’svoicecamefromthehallway.

Ittookheraminutetorealizethathiscrookedsmilewasatherexpense.Hallie had been so excited to hear Uncle Hank playing that she’d rundownstairswithout even a peek in themirror.With a quick glance into thekitchen,sherealized thateveryoneelseseemedtobereadyfor theday.SheranherhandsthroughhertangledhairandwentovertohimasUncleHankbeganplayingagain,thistimemoresoftly.

He looked down at her affectionately. “No, I mean it. You’re lookin’good.”Hebrokeoutintoahugesmile,andkissedhercheek.

Hallie rolled her eyes, but she liked his playfulness thismorning. “Oh,nowthatthecat’soutofthebag,you’regoingtobeopenlyflirtywithme?”

“I’mnotflirting,”hesaidwithmockoffense.“I’dsaythattoanyone.”Hesteppeddownthehallway.“Morning,Syd!Lookin’good!”

“What?”Sydneyleanedoverthetabletoseewhathewasupto.Whenhedidn’t say anything more, she shrugged it off and went back to talking toRobby.

“Whyareyousospunkytoday?”Hallieasked,soakingitin.

Hehungback from thekitchen foraminute toanswerher.“I shouldn’thave dropped all that on you—I’m sorry. Sorry for leavingwithout awordand sorry for putting you in the position I put you in yesterday.But it feltgoodtogetitoffmychest.RememberwhatItoldyouwhenwewerekids?Isaid thatwheneveryou’reupset, I’llmakeyou feel better.That’smy job. Ijustforgotforasecond.”

Halliegavehimahug,abigsqueeze,anindescribablefondnessforhimbubbling inside her chest. Then she pulled back, an idea coming to her.“KnowwhatIwantyoutodowithmetoday?”

“What’sthat?”

“Ineedyoutogoshopping.”

Hestaredather.“Shopping?”

“Yes!ForCoastalComfort.Iwanttogetideasandbouncethingsoffyou.Thenmaybe you can helpme contact some localmerchants once I have asenseofwhatIwant.”

Hiseagernesstohelpwasclear,andshecouldtellthatheenjoyedseeinghermoveforwardwithbuildingthisidea.“I’dloveto.”

Mamapeekedherheadintothehallway,ascrambledegg-coveredspatulain her hand. “Y’all grabUncleHank and come on in before this food getscold. And don’t tell him but I made blueberry biscuits with Aunt Clara’srecipe.”

“Did I hear you say blueberry biscuits?” Uncle Hank said, coming upbehind them, his face pensive. “I didn’t have to hear it though—the smellgave itaway.”Heclosedhiseyesand inhaled.Theyallwaitedonpinsandneedles to see ifMama’s gesturemight be toomuch for him. “That, rightthere,isthesmellofheaven.”

Helookedupasifhecouldseerightthroughthepearlygates.Andthenhesmiled.Itwasasifagraycloudhadlifted.Therewasabuzzaroundthetable. Robby was talking to Sydney about yesterday’s game. Uncle Hankpointed out the two biscuits he wanted, asking Mama if she’d used thebuttermilk or thewholemilk.Benwas dishing out the eggs, and suddenly,

Hallie felt it: the feeling she’d had for all those years around this table atbreakfast.ThiswasStarlightCottage.Buttherewasonethingthathadalwaysbeentherethatshejustcouldn’tshake:thatemptychair.Shewasn’tgoingtoruinthemoodbybringingupLewisnow,butlatershe’daskUncleHanktotellherthewholestory.

“Ican’twait to showyoumyphotos!”Hallie saidwhenshe roundedBen’sjeep.Shegrabbedhisarmastheyheadedtowardthegallery.“Gavinclearedoutanentireroomforthem.I’msoeagertoseethemallframedandreadytogo.”

Benopenedthegallerydoorandallowedhertoenterfirst.

Therewereafewpeoplemullingaround,chattingamongstthemselves.

“Heythere.”Gavingreetedthemashewalkedupfromthecounteratthebackoftheoldhouse-turned-shop.

“Hi!Istoppedbytoseetheroomyoumadeforme,”shesaid,barelyableto contain herself. She feltwhole for the first time in a very long time. “IbroughtmyfriendBenwithme—yourememberhim,right?”

“Nice to see you again.” Ben offered a friendly handshake. “Hallie’sreallyexcitedtoseewhatyou’vedonewithherwork,ifyoucan’ttell.”GavinandBensharedamomentofunityintheiramusement.

“Ican’thelpit—it’sexciting!Onceweseethephotos,Ben’sgoingtohelpmeshopforideas.Iplantodesignafewpiecestogowiththephotographstomakeaone-of-a-kindlook,sopeoplecanbuyafulldesignwithouthavingtohunt for things tomatch the photographs themselves.Then I’ll see if I canfind some local merchants who are interested in pairing with me on theCoastalComfortline.”

“You’realwaysonestepahead,”Gavinsaid,walkingthemdowntheshorthallwaytooneoftherooms.“Havealook.”Hegesturedinside.

Outside the space, on an easel made of driftwood, was the CoastalComfortlogo.Itwasabsolutelystunning.Butwhatflooredherwaswhatshe

sawintheroom.HalliewalkedinsidewithBenandshewasovercomebythesightofherphotographs.TheywereallmattedandframedjustlikesheandGavinhad talkedabout, andhe’dhung them incolororder from lightest todarkest and in clusters of complementing shades, exactly the way she’dwanted.AuntClara’schair,theseashore,thelighthouse,thebackporchwiththepaddlefans,thestonewalk—theywereallthereondisplay.Halliestoodthere in disbelief that she’d created this, because all the shots looked likeworksofart,likesomeoneelsehaddonethem.

“You’vedoneanamazingjobwiththedisplay,Gavin,”Bensaid,hiseyesdartingaroundashetookinallthepieces.

Gavinnoddedinappreciation.

“I’mcompletelyblownawaybythese.”Benwalkedovertothestonepathimageandgazedatit.“Everyoneofthemisgoingtosell.Icanguaranteeit.”

“He’sright,”Gavinagreed.“Ifinishedthedisplaythismorningbeforeweopened,andI’vesoldtwoalreadyandhadordersforprints.”

Hallieclappedherhandoverhermouth.“Ohmygosh,”shesaidthroughherfingers.“Ihaven’tevengottenthehomedécorinhereyet.”

“You can if you’d like, but you don’t need it,” Gavin said. “Thephotographs speak for themselves.People are looking!And theweekend isjustgettingstarted.ButemailmephotosofsomeofyourdécorideasandI’llshare them with the people who buy your pieces, until you can secure apartnershipwithalocalcraftsman.”

“Okay,Iwill.”

Hallie spent thenext fewminutes tellingBenabout eachof thephotos;what she’ddonewith their perspective, andher editing techniques.Likehewassogreatatdoing,helistened,smiling,clearlythrilledforher.

“Youmight need a bigger space,” he saidonce theywerebackoutside.“Maybe you could have your own showroom.” He opened the jeep’spassengerdoorandHallieclimbedin.

“I’veonlysoldtwo!”shesaid,beforeheshutherdoorandgotinonhisside.

“Twoinaboutfourhours.AndGavinsaidhe’dalsosoldprints.Doyouknowhowmuchhe’ssellingthemfor?”

“Wechattedabitaboutthatlasttimeweweretogether.He’spriceditallusingthesamepricinghedoesforhisown.”

Ben nodded. “It’s definitely working. I’m glad he’s helping you.” Heturnedonto themain road thatparalleled thebeach. “You’llwant tokeepafirmgriponsalesandmakesureyou’restayingcompetitivebutalsogettingthe most that you can for your work. I’m sure Gavin has dealt with it allbefore,though.”

“It’salottothinkabout.”

Bengaveheraquickglanceandacrookedgrin.“It’sallgoodstuff.I’vebeen there.You’vegotGavin toconsult, I’llhelpyouwithwhat I can, andwe’llresearchtheheckoutofwhatwedon’tknow.Buteventually,ifthisalltakesoff,you’regoingtoneedpeopletohelpyoumanagethings.You’llneedasalesperson,a receptionist—haveyou thoughtofconsultingondecoratingsothatpeoplewillknowwheretoputthisfurnitureiftheybuyit?”

“I’ve thoughtofallof it—it’ssoenormous that it scaresmesometimes.I’malsoenvisioningadesignteamthatwillhelpmegetitallofftheground,butIdon’tknowifI’llhavethemeanstostartsogrand.Ididn’tbelievethatanythingwouldcomeofit,andespeciallysoquickly.”

“That’s just it, Hallie. You have to believe. Don’t let it scare you toomuch.Justbreatheandfollowyourinstincts.”

Halliecouldn’thelpbutthinkaboutthatdreamshe’dhadofAuntClara.Justjumpin.

TWENTY-THREE

BythetimeBenandHalliegotbacktoStarlightCottage,shehadaphonefullof furniture images touse as a springboard for her designs, and ideas fromsome local merchants. She’d been madly emailing them to Gavin to passalong to any potential buyers. When she looked up from her phone, shenoticedthatLewiswassittingaloneinoneoftherockersonthefrontporch.

“Who’sthat?”Benasked,bringingthejeeptoastop.

She sent a wide-eyed look over to Ben and answered, “Uncle Hank’sbrother.”Halliegotoutofthecarandshutthedoorbehindher.“MindifItalktohimaminute?”sheaskedasBencamearoundtoherside.

“Notatall.I’llcheckonBeauintheguesthouse.Comegetmeifyouneedme.”

“Okay.”

Lewis offered a friendlywave toHallie as she approached.He seemedrelaxed,tippinglightlybackandthenrockingforwardasifhehadalldaytosit there, although his forehead glistened with perspiration from the thickhumidity.Foraninstant,HalliewasfilledwiththehopethatLewisandUncleHank had put aside their differences, but recalling Uncle Hank’s face thenightLewishadcomeinside,shedoubtedthatwasthecase.

“HiLewis,”Halliesaidwhenshereachedhim.

“Hello,Miss Hallie. It’s so nice to see you again.” He pulled a foldedhandkerchieffromhisshirtpocketanddabbedatthedampnessonhisface.

“MayI?”ShegesturedtowardAuntClara’schair,besidetheonehewas

in.

“Of course.” Lewis returned the handkerchief to his pocket and put hishandsonhisknees,rockingagain.

“MindifIaskwhyyou’reontheporch?”sheventured.

“Well,Iranintothepoliceofficerintowntoday.Theonefromtheothernight.HeandIhadagoodchuckleoverthemix-upwiththinkingIwassomesortofprowler,andIboughthimacoffee.”Hestoppedrocking.“Whileweweremakingconversation,heaskedwhatmylettersaid.Ididn’tunderstand.Thatwaswhen he toldme that yourmother hadmentioned that she had aletter for me from Clara, and they’d helped her track me down. They’dlocatedmebeforeI’devenshownuphere.”

“That’strue,”Halliesaid.“ThecheckthatUncleHankwastryingtogiveyouwasyourinheritancefromAuntClara.Shewantedyoutohaveit.”

“Idon’twanthermoney.”Emotionseemedtofillhis throat,becausehecoughedasifheneededtoclearit.“Ijustwantherletter.Iwanttoknowwhatshehastotellmeafteralltheseyears.IcametothecottagetodaytoaskHankforit,buthewouldn’tgiveittome,soItoldhimI’dsitouthereuntilhewasreadytohanditover.”

“Yourealizethatyoucouldbeouthereaverylongtime?”

“Yep.”Hestartedrockingagain.

“I’ll see if I can talk to him.” Hallie got up. “I can’t guarantee I canchangehismind,though.”

“I’vegottherestofmydaystosithereuntilhedoes.”

“Wishmeluck.”Hallieopenedthefrontdoor.

“Goodluck,”hesaid.“You’regoingtoneedit.”

Halliewalkedintothehouse,pastthelivingroom.Thepianofallboardsatopenfromthismorning.ShelookedforMamaandSydneybuttheyweren’tthere.Theymusthavegoneout somewhere. “UncleHank?” shecalled intothesilence,peeringintothekitchen,butthelightswereoff,thetableempty.

“Inhere,”hecalledgrufflyfromAuntClara’soffice.

WhenshegottherethedoorwasopenandhewassittinginAuntClara’soffice chair, running his hands along the edge of her desk, lost incontemplation.“Whatareyouthinkingabout?”sheaskedgently,comingovertohimandputtingherhandonhisshoulder.

“DoyouknowwhyyourauntgaveLewisahundredthousanddollars?”

Hallieshookherhead.“Idon’t.That’salotofmoney.”

“Yes.”HeliftedaframedpictureofAuntClaraandhimoffherdeskandpeereddownat it. “WhenClarawanted to expandherdesign company,wewereyoung—stillgettingonourfeetfinancially;wewereconsideringbuyingahometogetherwithoursavings.She’dsatontheideaforquiteawhile,butitwaseatingherupandshe finally toldme.ClaraandherbusinesspartnerSashaMorgan saw a real opportunity to expand abroad. However, it takesmoneytomakemoney.Shefacedtwopossibilities:one,marrymeandbuyahouse,ortwo,useallhersavingstoinvestinherbusiness.”

Hesettheframebackdown,staringatitasifitheldtherestofthestory.Perhapsitdid.

“Lewis had alreadymade a fortune by his twenties in real estate up inNewYork, and he had offices both inNashville and up north.Hewas justyoungenoughwithnoobligationstostillbedangerouswithhisinvestments.He andClara used to have lively conversations about their businesses; shereallyenjoyedtalkingtohimaboutit.HegaveClaratenthousanddollarstoexpand, andwewere thrilled by his offer, but felt likewe couldn’t take it.Thatwasmorethanwecouldrepayhimbackthen,andwedidn’twanttobeindebted to family.He insisted, tellingher thatheknewwhat itwas like tostartfromnothing.SashaMorgansaidshecouldofferhersavings,andiftheytookLewis’s gift they’d have enough to really get things goingworldwide.Clara and I could buy our home and she could still build her company.Against my better judgment, Clara took Lewis’s money and promised himthatonedayshe’dpayhimbacktenfold.ButIneverlether.Notafterwhathedid.”

Hallie satdownon theoffice floor,her legscrossed, lookingupathim.“Whatdidhedothatwassobad,UncleHank?”

“Hestartedshowingupwhereverwewere, toseehowthebusinesswasgoing.Flashy.Dressedwell,newcologne…”UncleHankcuthiseyesatthehallway, and Hallie remembered that Lewis was probably still sitting outthere.“Itwasn’tthewaymybrotherusuallypresentedhimself,orthewayheusuallybehaved.Iknewhimwhenhewasscaredofthedarkanddidn’tgiveahootwhatkindofhaircuthehad.”UncleHankclenchedhisfistsasifhehadpaininhisfingers.“Hesmiledalot,laughedatClara’sjokes,leanedintoherwhen she spoke. Ididn’t like it, butClara toldme itwasnothing.OnedayClara showedme a bouquet of flowers he’d brought her. She toldme thatLewishadaskedhertogoawaywithhim.He’dtoldherhewasinlovewithher.”

Hallie’smouthdroppedopen.“OhmyGod.”

“Clarawasbesideherselfwithguilt.She’dspentallthosemomentswithhimand takenhismoney,andshe felt like she’d ledhimonsomehow.Shesaidshehadtotalktohim,butItoldhernotto.Iwasn’tevergoingtospeaktohimagain,andshedidn’thavetoeither.”

“Didsheevertalktohim?”

UncleHanktookinalong,steadyingbreath.“Afewdayslater,shetoldmethatshe’dgonetoseehimtotellhimhowmuchshelovedme.Shetriedto talkabout theirmeetingwithme,but I refused to listen. Ididn’twant toknow.Iwasstill tooangryabout it towasteaminuteofmy timeonhim. Ijustaskedhertotellmeifshehadanysortofclosure,andshesaidshedid,soweleftitatthat.”

Lewisdidn’t seemlike thesortofpersonUncleHankwasdescribingatall.Helivedinamodesthome;hisclothes,fromwhatHalliehadseen,wereaverageatbest.Heappearedkindandhumble.“Whatifhe’schanged?”sheoffered.

UncleHank’seyes landedonHallie.“Clarawas thebest thing thatevercameintomylife.Shewasthesuninmyday.Andhetriedtostealthat—itblindsidedme.Lewiswantedtorobmeofmygreatesthappinessforhisowngain. Tome, that’s unforgiveable. And if he’s changed, then great. But hewon’tbeapartofmylife.”

Hallie sat up on her knees to get closer to his eye level. “UncleHank,AuntClarahadthingstosay,butsheknewshehadlimitedtimetosaythem.She left her own words for Lewis. You need to give him the letter. It’sbetweenhimandAuntClara—youdon’thavetobeapartofit ifyoudon’twantto.ButAuntClarahastrustedyouwiththis.Youhavetogivehimthemessage.Forher.”

UncleHankdrummedhisfingersangrilyonthedesk,clearlyconsideringherwords.

“If he’s still on the front porch, I’ll take it out to him.Youwon’t evenhavetoseehimifyoudon’twantto.”

With a huff, Uncle Hank walked over to the safe and turned the dialseveral times to line up the combination. The door swung open and hesnatchedanenvelope that sat in frontof the restof their familydocuments,leaving a second envelope thatwas underneath it in the safe—Hallie’s.Heshutthedoorandspunthedialtolockitagain.Hislipspursedindisapproval,hehelditouttoher.

Halliestooduptotakeitfromhim.

“Myhope is that thiswillmakehimgoaway forgood,”he saidbeforeleaving the room. “Ask him if he wants his check,” he called over hisshoulder.“Andthentellhimnottocomeback.”

Onherwaythroughthehousetothefrontporch,HallietriedtoreconcilewhatUncleHankwas tellingher aboutLewiswithwhat she’dobservedofhim. If he andAuntClara hadn’t come to some sort of understanding, shewouldn’t have saved an empty seat for him at the table every holiday.Norwouldshehavelefthimthemoneyshe’dpromisedtopayhimbackorhavewrittenhimaletter.Therewasagapingholeinthisstory,andwithoutAuntClaratheretotellit,theonlywayHalliecouldgetanswerswastoaskLewis.ShewasgoingtohavetofindoutwhathadhappenedifshewasevergoingtoconvinceUncleHank to includehim in the family. ItwasobviousbyAuntClara’sactionsthatthatwasexactlywhatshewanted.Butfindingaresolutionbetweenthetwobrothersseemedalongwayoffatthispoint.

Shewasrelievedtofindhimstillontheporch.Hesatup,hisbackpulling

awayfromthechair,whenhesawwhatwasinherhand.

“I’llgiveyouthis,”shesaid,“butifyouwantit,I’mgoingtoneedsomeanswersfirst.”

“Anythingyou’dliketoknow.”

HallieloweredherselfdownintoAuntClara’schair.

“DidyoutrytogetAuntClaratoleaveUncleHankandrunoffwithyousomewhere?”

Hestoppedrocking,hisfacesobering.“Yes.Butthatwasaverylongtimeago.”

Halliegrippedtheenvelopewithbothhands.“Wannatellmethestory?”

“Ifyou’dlike.”

“Iwould.”

He looked out over the yard, pensive. “When Hank said he wanted tointroducemetohisgirlfriend,Ihadnoideahowserioustheywere.WhenImetClara,shewasthemostbeautifulwomanI’deverlaideyeson,”hesaidwithout changing his gaze. “She had a smile that could turn my stomachinside out. Hank toldme that she wanted to buy her first house—shewaslookingforaverysmallfixer-upper.Ifoundafewtoshowher,andthetruthwasthat,despitemyattemptstoavoidit,Iwassmitten.”Hisfacelitupwiththememory.“I’donlyjustmovedbacktotheNashvilleareatohelptakecareofourmother,whowasn’twell.IhadfoundsuccessveryearlyinmycareerinNewYorkandwasalreadysellinglargeestates.IwassogoodatrealestatethatIevensurprisedmyself.AhousethesizeClarawaslookingforwasn’talotofmoneytomeatthatpointinmycareer,butIdidn’tcare.Ispentdayssearchingforher;Itouredareasmyselftomakesurethey’dbesafe.IwantedClaratohavetheverybestIcouldfindher.

“Iwasdrawntothewayshetrulycaredaboutpeople.Itdidn’tmatteriftheywerestrangers.Peopleshemetonthestreet,shopkeepers,taxidrivers…me. She treated everyone as if she’d known them forever. I wanted to bearoundthatkindofempathyforothers.Ifellfastandhardforher—Icouldn’tturnitoff.”

“Didyoufindherahouse?”Hallieasked,thisnewpieceofAuntClara’slifelikeararetreasure.

“Idid.”Hesmiled,hiseyesreturningtotheletterbriefly,andthentherewassadnessinthem,beforemeetingHallie’sgaze.“Shelovedthehouse.Butshe didn’t buy it. She and Hank had been discussing the purchase. He’dplannedtolivetherewithher,butaftergettingengagedtohimsherefusedtobuy a house thatHank hadn’t helped her choose, so they ended up buyingsomethingelseaftertheygotmarried.”

Hallie barely noticed the heat of the setting sun. She was completelydrawntoLewisandhisstory.ThedecisiontobuyahousewithUncleHanksohecouldbeanequalpartofitwassoveryAuntClara.Shewasalwaystruetoherselfandherfeelings,whilestillbeingwonderfultoeveryonewhoknewher.

“Shecamebymyofficedowntownandtoldmeshewasgoingtowaitabit,thattheengagementhadchangedherplans.WhiletheirrelationshiphadbeenmoreseriousthanIunderstood,Hank’sproposalhadsurprisedher—shehadn’tseenitcoming.Shewaspositivelyglowingaboutit.Whathadbeenasurprisetoherhadbeenabombshellforthewholefamily.Hankhadneversomuchasbroughtagirltodinner,andyethe’dproposedwithouttellingasoul.ButIknewwhy,becauseI’dhavedonethesamethingifClarahadlovedme.Everyonewasthrilled,andIhadtobejustasexcitedforthem.

“For the entire engagement, I split my time between New York andNashvilletohelpwithmymother.Clarawasatallourfamilygatherings.Wehad too much wine, stayed up late… I got to see her when she tiptoeddownstairstogetaglassofwaterfirstthinginthemorning.Itriednottoletmyfeelingsgrow,but theydid.Witheverybreath, I fellharder.Shehadnoidea.”

“Howheartbreaking.”Halliewascaptivated.Shecouldn’tlookawayfromthisman.“ButyouhadtoknowthatshelovedUncleHank.”

Henodded.“Butitbecameevenmoredifficult.Shewasaroundmeallthetime.Withourmother’shealthinsteepdecline,Clarawasalwaysthere.ShestartedaskingmequestionsaboutgrowingherdesignbusinessbecauseIhad

done the samewith real estate, andweconnectedon that, spending tonsoftimetalkingaboutideasandhowtomanagetheaffairsofgrowth.Icouldn’tescapeher,andIalsocouldn’tmakemyselfstoplovingher.

“Shemademewanttobebetter.Istartedtakingcareofmyself,worryingabout how she perceived me. I’d close my eyes at night and relish thememory of her laughter, the smile she’d given only me when I’d saidsomethingamusing.Iwastorturingmyself.IknewIshouldn’tfeelthisway,butIcouldn’tmakeitstop.”

HallieclosedhereyesandthoughtofBen.Whatwoulditbelikeforherifhe were to get engaged to someone? She couldn’t help but think how herfeelingswouldbequitesimilar.Nowsheknewthatkindoflove.

“Thenmymotherpassedaway.Somethingclicked,andthefinalityofherlife endingmademe impulsive. Inmygrief formymother, an intense feartookoverme,andatthattimeIjustthoughtthatifIdidn’tatleasttrytotellClara,I’dneverknowwhatwasmeanttobe.”

Tears filled his eyes and he cleared his throat, the rest of his story stillnoticeablydifficulttotell.

“I bought her flowers. Buttercups and hydrangeas, her favorites. I stillrememberhowthecellophanearoundthemrattledwithmytremblinghands.IknewwhatIwasdoingwaswrong,butIwastooyoungtounderstandthatIcouldforeveralterthecourseofallourlivesbygivingintomyfeelingslikeIdid. I should’ve considered how what I was about to do would affecteveryone,butmymindwasfilledtothebrimwithClara—therewasnoroomtothinkaboutanyoneelse.Ihadn’tgottenwhereIhadinlifebynot takingrisks, and at that time I felt this was a gamble worth taking. My futurehappinessdependedonit.SoIwenttofindherandaskhertochooseme.IpromisedherthatI’dspendmyentirelifemakingherhappy.”

Hisheaddroppedindefeat.

“Iwasyoungandirresponsible.Clarabasically toldmethat later, inherownkindway.AndIseethatnow.Butitwasdifficulttounderstandthroughtheanguishandmiseryofhearingthatshelovedonlymybrother.Icanstillseethesympatheticsmileshegavemeasshetoldme,andithauntedmethe

restofmylife.I’dneverfailedbeforethatmoment.ButnotonlyhadIfailedwithClara,I’dcompletelyruinedthingswithmybrother.Whenitallfinallycamedownonmeinthedaysafter,IrealizedI’dlostbigtimeandIwasn’tsurehowtorecover.”

“DidyoutrytotalktoUncleHank?”

“OnceI’dmadeitthroughthehazeofheartbreak,ItriedtotellhimhowsorryIwas,buthewouldn’tlisten.”

“Sowhat happened after that?Did you ever getmarried or settle downwithanyone?”

Heshookhishead,butdespitehisanswerheseemedcontent.“ItwasamomentthatchangedhowIlookedatlife.WhileIwasn’ttheoneforClara,Itookholdofhercompassionforothersand thehumanity inher interactionswithpeople.Itmademerealizehowemptymylifewas.IsoldthebusinessinNew York and donated half of my fortune to charities that I felt stronglyabout.Iinvestedtherest,soldmypenthouse,andmovedtoMexico,whereIcouldfishandreadonthesandforhoursuntilthesunwentdownaroundme,andIcouldgotosleepandnothavetothinkaboutwhatI’ddone.Iworkedwithkids, teaching themEnglish, and Iused someofmymoney tobuildaschoolthere.

“Butabouteightmonthsago,IheardfromafriendthatClarawasill.ThatwaswhenIcametoFireflyBeach.Ikeptalowprofile,spendingmostofmytimeintheneighboringtowns.Ididn’twanttoupsether.Ijustwantedtobenearher,hopingbysomemiracleshe’dfeelmypresence,andtheadmirationIhadforherwouldkeepherstrong.Itmadenosense,butIwantedtosupportherandHank,evenifIwasn’ttherewiththem.Whenshedied,Imovedherepermanently,tryingtofindthepeacethatClarafoundhere.AndIhave.

“When I first came back though, just once, I saw her in town—it wasearly on in her illness and she looked tired and weak, but she was stillbeautifulClara. I toldherhowshe’dchangedmyperspectiveon life. IalsotoldherhowsorryIwasforputtingherandHankinthatposition,andhowmyhopewasthatonedayIcouldbeforgiven.IaskedhertotellHankthatIwashere,thatI’dstayoutofhislifeuntilhewantedmebackinit,butassoon

asheaskedI’dcomesprinting.I’mstillwaitingforthatday.”

“IwishIcouldhelphimtosee,”Halliesaid,thestorymakingherfeelalittleoverwhelmed.

“SodoI.”

ShehandedLewistheletter.

Lewispresseditagainsthisheart.“MindifIreadthisinprivate?”

“Of course I don’t mind.” Hallie stood up and walked down the frontsteps,headedfortheguesthouse.Andatthatmoment,sherealizedsheneededBen.

TWENTY-FOUR

WhenHallieopenedthedooroftheguesthouse,shefoundBensprawledonthe sofa, his eyes closed,wearing those big headphones of his. She’d havethoughthewasasleepwereitnotforthetappingofhisfootagainstthesofaarm.Hewasprobablylisteningto the latest trackforoneofhisnewbands.Thesightofhimfilledherwiththecalmsheneeded.Hesensedherpresenceandopenedhiseyes,sittingup.Beaustirredinhisspotonhisdogbedinthecorner.

“Hey,” he said, taking off his headphones and setting them on the sidetable.

Hallieploppeddownbesidehim.“IjusthadaverylongtalkwithLewis,andIcan’tbelievewhathetoldme.”Shewasstilldigestingitall.“BeforeIgointoitthough,Ineedaglassofwine.Dowehaveanyinthefridge?”

“Ibroughtyouanewbottleoftheblackberryyoulike.”Hegotuptogethersome.

“You did?”Hallie followed him into the kitchen area. “Youwere slambusyeveryday,closinguplatethatonenightwetalked,andyoustillhadtimetogooutandgetmywine?”

Hegaveheralovinglook.“Always.”

Affectionforhimswelledinherchest.Shefelttheurgetogiveintoit,totellhimexactlyhowshefeltabouthim,butitwouldn’thelpanything.Lewiswas living proof of the havoc that being honest could cause. Ben washonorable.He’dstickbyhereventhoughshecouldn’tgivehimafamily,andshefearedshe’dcausehimregret.Soinsteadofhugginghimlikeshewanted

to do, she hung back from him, walking around to the other side of thecounter.

“I’llpouruseachsome,”hesaid,turninghisattentiontothewinecabinet.He grabbed two glasses and filled them, handing one to her. “Sowhat didLewishavetosay?”

“Awhole lot.But just the thoughtof it all hasmademe tired. I’ll needsometimebeforeIcantellyoueverything.”

“Youneedtohavefun.Drinkthatdown.”

They sat across from each other and talked about nothing important, toclearhermind.TheychattedaboutBen’slatestworkwithhisnewband,howoneofthesongswasgivingthemallfits,andhowhe’dmanagedtosecureabackup trackwith three of his favorite artists.Hallie had told him that shewantedtosprucethehouseupforUncleHank,getthebushestrimmed,makesuretheirrigationsystemwasupandrunning—heneededtofeellikeitwashome again. Ben had made a joke about her using the hedge clippers,recallingwhenshe’dnearlychoppedanentirebushdowntothegroundwhiletryingtowrestletheelectrictrimmers,makingherlaughsohardshehadtearsinhereyes.

Theentiretime,shewasfillingupherglass.Theyhadn’ttalkedlikethisinsolongandshe’dmissedit.Sheleanedheavilyonherhand,settlingintoaslightlynumbstateofeuphoria.

Ben noticed her happiness and grinned at her. “I haven’t seen you thisrelaxedsinceyourcollegeroommate’swedding.”Helaughedatthememory.“Whatwashername?Beth?”

Halliefoldedherarmsandletherheadfallontothem,herbackheavingwith her laughter. “I’m not that bad right now!” She remembered all thedancingsheandBenhaddone.She’dkickedoffhershoesanddraggedhimonto thedance floor, insistingshe lead.Andhe’d lether.Theyweresuchafunnypairtogetherthattheguestsformedacirclearoundthem,rootingthemon.Shelostherbalanceandstartedtofall,butBenswungaroundinaflash,catchingherand liftingherup,making it look likeamove from themovieDirtyDancing,whichsentthecrowdintocheers.

“Hangon.”Benwentovertothestereo,sethiswineonthelivingroomtable,andstartedtappingonhiscomputer.“Iknowwhatyouneed.Listentothis.”

Hehitafewmorekeysandmusicfilledtheroom.Ithadabeatthatwasas fluid as the waves outside, mentally rocking her mind back and forthbefore she could even get up to move her feet. It was fast and happy,rhythmic.Benmovedthecoffeetabletothesideoftheroom,makingBeaushiftfromhisbedtothesofa.ThenBentookHallie’shandsandpulledhertothemiddleofthefloor.

“Youcanlead,”hesaid.“Justdon’tdipme.”

Hallie started laughingagain,but caughtherbreath for amomentwhenBenspunheraround.Theyweredancing,hishandsmovingalongherbody,herheadtippingback,themomentlikenourishmentforhersoul.Nooneelsecouldmakeherfeellikethis.

Aftera fewsongs, themusic sloweddown, thesoundofacousticguitarfilteringinaroundthem—slowandsoftlikethewind.Hershouldersrelaxed.She letgoofBenand leanedover to the table,grabbingherglass,drinkingherwine,swayingtothesoundoftheband.ShedancedforafewbeatsbeforeshenoticedBenlookingatherwithasoftgrinonhisface.

Gently,hetookherglassandsetitbackonthetablenexttohis.Thenhereachedforherhands,pullinghertowardhim,wrappinghisarmaroundherwaistandmovingwithheruntiltheywereslow-dancingtogether.Sheputherheadonhischest,allowingherself to takein thescent thatwassouniquelyBen. His lips hovered around the top of her head, and she could feel hisbreath.

“Doyoulikeit?”hewhisperedintoherear.

She nodded, not knowing if hemeant the dancing or the song, but shedidn’t care. In that moment it felt like he could save her from everythinggoingonaroundher.Withthisonedance,hecouldmakeitallfadeintoblack.

Hismovement slowed further and sheopenedher eyes to seewhy.Benheldhergaze.“It’smoredifficultnow,”hesaidquietly.“Nowthatyouknow

howIfeel,Ican’tholditbackanymore.”Hepulledhercloser.“Iknewthatwouldhappen,whichwaswhyI left. Idon’tknowhowyouwantme tobewithyounow.”

Shereachedupandputherarmsaroundhisneck.“Justbeyourself,”shesaidhonestly.She loved thewayheheldher,andshewondered ifhecouldsenseit.

Withatendergrin,hesaid,“That’stheproblem.IfI’mmyself,Iwanttodothis.”Gently,hetouchedhislipstohers,anditwasasifeverynerveinherbodyhadbeenasleepherentirelife,wakingwithavengeanceinthatsecond.

She pulled back and she could see the trepidation on his face, butsomethingoccurredtoher.“Numberfour,”shesaid,beforelaughingquietly.

“What?”heasked,disorientedbyherresponse.

Shepulledhimcloser.“Numberfouronmylist:kissaboyIlove.”Thensheshrugged.“Ihaveto.AuntClarasaid.”

Ben tipped his head back and laughed. Then his smile faded to thatintoxicatingfondnesshehadwhenhelookedather.Heheldherface inhishandsandpressedhislipstohersagain.Itwassoftatfirst,theirmovementsinperfectsyncwithoneanother,building,yearsoflongingforthismomentexploding in his response to her. She felt lightheaded and exhilarated, likeanythingwaspossible if theycould justdo it together.His lipswere tenderandgentle,andshedevouredthesummerysaltytasteofthemmixedwiththeblackberrywine.

When they finally slowed to a more respectable level, Ben kissed hercheek and then said into her ear, giving her goosebumps down her arm,“We’llhavetodothatagain.”

Hallie couldn’t get her thoughts straight.All she could think aboutwashow she wanted to throw caution to the wind and blurt out that she wascompletely in love with him. She understood nowwhy he’d had to leave,because if shedidn’tgetoutof there she’d loseher resolve.Theirkisshadmadeitalltoorealandshedidn’tknowwheretogofromthere.“Wecan’t,”wasallshecouldgetout,heremotionscomingfasterthanshecoulddecipher

them.

Hegotclosertoherface,withalove-struckgrin.“Wereallydohaveto.Youknowhowmuchofaperfectionistyourauntwaswithherwork,andifthisisgoingtocountfornumberfouronthelist,ithadbetterbeperfect.”Benpulledback,pleasedwithhimself.“Sothatwasjustpractice.”

“Itwasprettyperfectalready,”shesaid,totallyinthemoment.

“Nah.Wecandobetter!”Withoutwarning,hepickedHallieup,runningtothesofa,nearlyfallingoverthecoffeetable,makinghershriekandgiggleatthesametimedespitehermuddleoffeelings.Helaidherdown,loweringhimselfoverher,andbrushedherhairoutofherfacesweetly.“Let’spracticesomemore right now,” he said, consuming herwith his eyes, her past andpresentandfutureallthereinhisgaze.

Thiswasthepersonshe’dbeenborntolove,thepersonshecouldn’tlivewithout.ThewayUncleHankhaddescribedhisadorationforAuntClara—thiswasit!Fortherestofherlife,she’dcompareeveryonetoBen,andthey’dlosebecausetherewasnooneinthisworldmoreperfectforher.Howhadshenot seen it? Suddenly, all her choices before this one seemed trivial. She’dneverfindanothermanwhowouldevencomeclosetomakingherfeel likeshefeltrightnow.

KissaboyIlove.

Iloveyou,shethoughtasshelookedintohiseyes.Ido.Shewantedtotellhim.Shewantedhimtoknowthateverythinghe’ddoneforher,allthethingshe’deversaidtoher—they’dallbeensoperfect.He’ddoneeverythingright.Buttheycouldn’t…Shefelttheprickoftears,panicandfearrushingin,andshepushedhimoffher.

“Whatareyouafraidof?”heasked,sittingupnexttoher.“YoumeantthatkissasmuchasIdid.What’sstoppingyoufromgivingintoyourfeelings?”

Shewishedby somemiracle that they couldmovepast her own issues,butiftheycouldn’tshehadRobbytothinkabout.She’dletherfeelingsmakeherchoicesforher,andifshecontinuedtodothat,shecouldruineverything.Hallieknewwhatitwasliketogrowupwithonlyhermother,andwhileher

motherwaswonderful,Halliealwaysfelttheabsenceofamalefigureinherlife. She’d savored her timewithUncleHank, and inRobby’s case,UncleHank’s health didn’t allow him to do the things he used to dowithHallie.RobbyneededBenfor that.And the restofher familyneededBen inotherwaystoo.

Hallie didn’t have an answer to his question without giving awaySydney’sfearsordisclosingherown,andshedidn’tknowiftellinghimanyofitwouldchangethingsanyway.

“Look.Iknowyouprettydarnwell,”hesaid,takinginalongbreathandletting it out, clearly attempting to regain focus. “Something is eating youalive, and for whatever reason you won’t tell me what it is. I wish youwould.”

He took her hand and rubbed the back of it with his thumb, causing alumpinherthroat.

“ButI’mnotgoingtoputanypressureonyou.Tellmeinyourowntime.”He intertwined his fingers in hers. “Let’s get ourselves together, and laterwe’llseeifRobby’sbackandtakehimtothefair.We’llgoontheridesuntilour tummies ache and our cheeks hurt from laughing, and I’ll win you anobnoxiouslylargeteddybearthatyou’llhavetodragaroundallnight.”

Hallie laughed despite herself, her anxiety lifting. “Can we get one ofMable’sapplefritters?”

Ben grabbed her other hand and pulled her up as he got off the sofa.“We’llneedtogetinlinefirstthing,”hesaidwithmockseriousness.Thenasweetsolemnitywashedoverhim.“Let’shavesomefuntonight.”

Stillfeelinglightwithintoxication,Hallieagreed.Thiswasexactlywhatsheneeded.

“You’regoin’down!”BensaidtoHalliefrominsidehiscobaltbluebumpercar,withRobbygigglingfromthepassengerseatasthecarsbegantomove.

Mama,Sydney,andRobbyhadbeenattheaquariumallafternoon.When

theygothomeandBenmentionedthefair,Robbyhadbeenthrilledtogo,soHallie and Ben offered to give Sydney a break and take him. Robby hadwanted to leave right away, so they did. They’d been on nearly every ridethere.

“You’llhavetocatchmefirst!”Hallieturnedhersteeringwheelwithallhermight,BenandRobbycomingstraightforher.Tryingtomaneuverthecarwhile laughing was no easy feat, but shemanaged to dart out of the way,swinging around and bumping the side of Ben’s car before heading in theotherdirection.

“You’regonnapayforthat!”Robbygiggled.“Gether,Ben!”

“We’re coming for you, Miss Flynn!” Ben dodged two cars beforeclearingeveryoneelseandcomingovertoHallie’sside.

Laughing uncontrollably at the goofy faces hewasmaking forRobby’sbenefit, she could hardlymakeher little yellow carmove.Benwasheadedstraight for her. Then, whack, he got her, right on the back corner, onlymakingherlaughharder.

“I’mhungry,”Robbysaidwhentheridewasover,andthey’dclimbedoutoftheircars.“Andmyfeethurtfromwalking.”

Ben lifted him up piggyback style. “Well, you’ve got a few dinnerchoices:youcanhavethatbigbagofcottoncandyoverthere,asliceofpizzathesizeofmyjeep,ortheFireflyFairspecial,whichisaworld-famousapplefritterandicecream.Or!Wecouldgeteverythingandnibbleallevening.”

“Sydneywouldneverspeaktousagain,”Halliesaid,hercheekshurtingfromsmilingsomuch.

The sunwas setting, the lights of the rides and the stalls all flashing inneon colors, the air filled with bells, chatter, an occasional scream ofexcitementfromsomeoneonaride,andthecoastalsoundsthatwerealwayspresent at Firefly Beach. Hallie’s face was warm from the sun, the breezefindinghereverynowandagaintocoolher.

Robby slid off of Ben’s back and ran around in front of him. “I wantcottoncandy!”Hewashoppingupanddown,headingovertoastandcovered

inbagsofpinkandblue.

“Youhavetoatleasthaveacorndogorsomething,”Halliesaid.

Benwasalreadyatthestand,buyinghimthebiggestbagtheyhad.

Hallie joined them. “That’s enormous!” she said, digging around in herwalletforsomecashtogethimacorndogtoo.

“It’saboutfuntonight,right?”Bensaid,handingRobbythebag.ThenhepulledRobbybackupontohisshoulders,thebagdanglingprecariouslyfromRobby’sfingersbyBen’sear.BeforeRobbycouldanswer,BentookHallie’shand.“What’snext?”

“Play that,Ben!”Robby saidwith excitement, pointing to a gamewithtwobasketballhoopsthatseemedtobeplacedmilesfromtheshootingline.Itwouldtakearocketlaunchertogetabasketballthatfar.

“ThinkIcanwinit?”Benasked,twistingtolookupathim.

“Yes!”Robbysquealed.

“I did promise Hallie a great big bear. She wants one really bad.” Hewinkedather.

BenwalkedovertothestandandthensquatteddowntoletRobbyclimboffhisshoulders.Thenhetookouthiswalletandgrabbedafewbillsfromit.“I’llplayfivegames,please,”hetoldtheattendant,handinghimthemoney.

“Five?”Halliesaid,surprised.“Youreallyonlyhavetoplayone,ornoneforthatmatter.”

“Andletyougohomeempty-handed?Never.”

Robbyleanedonthecounter,pullingwadsofpinkcottoncandyfromhisbagandstuffing them inhismouth,hiseyesgluedonBenasBen took thefirstbasketball fromtheattendantandbounced itonce in frontofhim.Benliftedtheballupwithbothhandsandsentitflyingintotheair.Theballsailedtowardthebasketinastraightline,hittingtherimandrollingarounditbeforebouncingout.

“Ooooohhh!”Robbycried.“Thatwasclose,Ben!”

Benshotanotheronewiththesameprecision.Ithungintheair,andthethreeof themstoodsilently,watchingitgo.Theballwent in,bouncedbackandforth,andthenpoppedbackout.

“No!”Robbysaid,amassofcottoncandyinhisfingers.“Thatshould’vegonein!”Hestartedjumpingupanddown.“Shootanotherone!You’llgetitin.”

“Third time’s a charm,” Ben said, making the shot. This time, the ballwentinandslidallthewaydownthenet,avictorybellsounding.RobbyandHalliebothscreamedwithglee.

“Whatprizewouldyoulike,sir?”theattendantasked.

BenturnedtoHallie.“Takeyourpick.”Hewavedhishandacrossthelineofgiganticstuffedanimalsineverycoloroftherainbow.

“WhatcolorshouldIget,Robby?”sheasked,butshewasstillsmilingatBen.

Robbyfinishedhisbiteofcottoncandyandsaid,“Getthegreenone.”

“Thebigfrog?”

“Yes!”

TheattendantpulleddownafrogthatwassohugeHalliewasn’tsurehowshe’dmaneuveritaroundthroughtherides.Heawkwardlyhandeditoverthecountertoher.“Thankyou,”shesaidwithherfacefullofgreenfur,andthenshesetitdownontheground,leaningonit.

“Youstillhavetwomoreshots,”RobbytoldBen.

Benruffledhishairandthenstoleabiteofcottoncandy,poppingitintohismouth.“Ido!ThinkIcanwinyouonetoo?”

Robby’seyesgrewround.“Oh,Ihopeso!”

“Ifnot,Robby,I’llgiveyoumine.”

“Ohno,Hallie,”Robbysaidwithworryonhisface,“Iknowhowmuchyoureallywantedit.Bensaidso.”

Benlaughed.“Youwon’thavetoworryaboutthat.I’mgoingtowinyou

one.Oratleastgodowntrying.”

He took the ball from the attendant and threw it toward the basket. Itlooked likeaperfect shot, and theballwent inbut itbouncedout.Robby’sface collapsed in disappointment. But with a deep breath, he regained hiscomposure.“Youcandoit,Ben.”

“Lastshot,buddy.”Hebouncedtheballafewtimes,lininguphisanglevisually. Then, slowly,Ben put the ball into position, both hands on it.Heheavedtheballatthebasket.Justlikebefore,itwentin,andHallieheldherbreathuntilsheheardthevictorybell, theballdroppingdownto theendofthenet.

“You won, Ben!” Robby said, dropping his bag of cotton candy andwrappinghisarmsaroundBen’swaist.

BensquatteddowntobeatRobby’seyelevel.“Whichonedoyouwant?”

Robbywalkedbackand forth,assessinghisoptionswhileHalliepickeduphis cotton candy, twisting the bag shut. Then shewent over toBen andkissedhimonthecheek.“He’ll remember this forhiswhole life,”shesaid.“I’msureofit.”

Benputhisarmaroundherandgaveheracuddle,kissingthetopofherhead.Itwasquitepossiblythebestfeelingintheworld.

TWENTY-FIVE

Halliegrinnedtoherselfwhenshewoketothegiganticgreenfrogsittinginthecornerofthesewingroom.Lastnightwasamazing.They’driddennearlyevery ride there.Robbyhadfallenasleep in the jeepon thewayhome,andBenhadcarriedhiminsideandupstairstohisroom.WhenhemetHallieinthehallway,Bengaveherakissonthecheekandtoldhergoodnightbeforeheadingouttotheguesthouse.HalliehadbeennearlyasexhaustedasRobby,fallingintobedandlosingconsciousnessalmostimmediately.

Her phone had a textwaiting fromGavin, but she’d get it in just a bit.Instead,sheinhaledthesmellsofmorningatStarlightCottage:bacon,eggs,potato casserole with cheese, homemade buttermilk biscuits… She got up,washedherface,pulledherhairback,andheadeddownstairstoherfamily.

Thepianowassilentthismorning.Halliehadhopedtohearmusicasshepaddeddown thestairs,but insteadall sheheardwas theclinkingofdishesand the sizzle of foodon the stove, silent theway it hadbeen since they’darrived. As she entered the kitchen, she found out why. She immediatelyzoned in on the two empty chairs at the table: Aunt Clara’s, which she’dexpected,buttheotherchairwasUncleHank’s.Therewasanewfaceintheircirclethismorning.

Lewis.

“Goodmorning,”hesaidwithacautioussmile.

“Hi.”Halliewalkedoverandsat inherchairacross fromhim,hereyesquestioning.

“Iwasinvited,”Lewissaid,holdingAuntClara’sletterintotheair.

MamaandSydneyexchangedglances.

“HasUncleHankbeendowntobreakfastyet?”Hallieasked.

“Yes,”Mama said, that one word filled with countless contemplations.“He’sdecidednottoeatthismorning.He’sbackinhisroom.”

“Hey there!” Ben said, coming in and nuzzling up to Hallie playfully.“Hey,buddy.”HewalkedovertoRobbyandgavehimafriendlypatontheback.“How’sthatbellyfeelingafterallthecottoncandy?”

Robbygiggled.

Thenhereachedahandacross the table.“You’reLewis, right?”As if itweretotallynormalforLewistobethere.

“Iam.”Lewisshookhishand.

“Ben. I’ma family friend.”He satdownnext toHallie. “They feedmeoccasionally.”

Lewissmirked,obviouslytryingtofigureBenout.

“Where’sHank?”Ben asked, only then observing the tense silence.Hepushedbackfromthetable.“I’llgogethim.”Beforeanyonecouldrespond,Benwasgoneagain.WhileBenprobablydidn’tknowwhathewasgettinginto by going to findUncleHankwith Lewis at his table, if anyone couldcalmhimdown,itwasBen.

HallieleanedclosertoLewis.“Whatdidthelettersay?Canyoutellus?”sheasked.

Lewisheldtheletterinhisfistasasmilespreadacrosshisface.“Shesaidshewasn’tangrywithme.AndIknewthatalready.ShealsosaidthatIwaswelcome to come for a visit and that she insisted I do at least once. Shesuggested breakfast, since that was the time everyone always got togetherbefore the day pulled the family in different directions. I brought somemuffins.”Hegesturedtowardabasketonthetable.

“Thatwasverykindofyou,”Mamasaid.

Hallie realized that the others didn’t know thewhole story behindwhyUncleHankwassoupsetwithhim,orhowsorryLewiswasforinterferingin

Uncle Hank’s life. And Uncle Hank didn’t know Lewis’s side. Everyoneneededtohearitall.“I’llcheckonBen,”Halliesaid,gettingup.

After looking in a few rooms, she finally found Ben and Uncle Hankupstairs inhis bedroom.Benwas sittingon the edgeof thebednodding atUncleHank.She’dexpectedtoseeUncleHankinafury,buthewasn’t.Hewas speaking calmly with Ben. They both stopped talking when Hallieentered.

“I’mguessingyou’reheretobringmedownstairs,”UncleHanksaid.Hewascivil,composed.

“Whatdoyouthinkaboutthat?”Hallieasked,curiousastohischangeindemeanorwhenLewiswasthesubjectofconversation.

“WhenIgotupstairs,IkeptrememberingClara’sletter,”hesaidinalmosta whisper, “the part where she said everyone deserves the kind of love Ishowedher.That’sClara.She lovedeveryonewithallherheart.And ifshetaughtmeanything,itwasthat.Yearsago,whenshehadachoice,shechosemy love.Shehad faith inmy love. I have to showher that her choicewasright, thatmy love forherwasbigger than anythingelse inher life. It’s soincrediblydifficulttobringmyselftolovemybrotherafterwhathedid.Butbytrying,I’mhonoringClara.”

Hallie took his hands and squeezed them. “That’s the Uncle Hank Iknow,”shesaid,emotionwellingup.“Imissedyou.Wherehaveyoubeen?”

Heblinkedashiseyesgotmisty.

“I know you’re still really angry with Lewis. But he told me whathappenedafterAuntClarachoseyou,andItrulybelievethatifyouhearhimout,you’llhaveitinyourhearttoforgivehim.”

Hisjawclenched,andHallieknewhowdifficultitstillwasforhim.

“Youdon’thavetobehisbestfriend.Justlethimtellyou.Lethimsitatourtable.”Shetuggedonhishands.“Let’sallgodowntogether.Thewholefamily.”

Ben,who’dbeensittingquietlyontheedgeofthebed,stoodup.“I’lljustgrabamuffinandheadout.Youallneedyourfamilytime.”

“Nonsense,”UncleHanksaid.“You’refamilytoo.”

The threeof themwentdownstairs together.When theycame in,UncleHanknodded atLewis,whichwasmiles abovehowhe felt for him,Halliewasnearly sure.UncleHankwasgiving it everythinghehad—all forAuntClara.

“I’m just finishing up the grits and hash browns now,” Mama saidguardedlyoverhershoulder,asshestirredthepotatoesonthestove.

UncleHankkept his handon thebackof his chair but didn’t sit. “ThatmeansIhavetimetoplaypiano,then.”

“Yay!”Robbyhoppedoutofhischair.“CanIplaytoo?”

“Of courseyou can.”His gaze flutteredover toLewis. “Shallwe showthem?”

AsmilecrawledacrossLewis’sface.“It’sbeenalongtime.”

UncleHanknodded.

Lewis and Uncle Hank walked out of the room with Robby trailingbehind.Sydney andMama followed, the sight so intriguing thatMama leftthepotatoeson thestove.UncleHankandLewiswent into the living roomandsatdownnexttooneanotheratthepiano.Halliehoveredinthedoorwayand Ben came up behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders like healwaysdid.

Lewisputhisfingersonthekeys,pausingforasecondasifhehadtogethis emotions incheck.UncleHankplacedhishandson thenoteswherehewasgoing to start, and then the twobeganplaying inunison.Their fingersmovedtogethereffortlesslyasifGodhimselfwerechoreographingthem,asifthey’dalwaysbeenmeanttobeawhole.Themelodywassweetandfluid,themostbeautifulmusicHalliehadeverheardcomefromthatpiano.TearsfelldownMama’scheeksandshewipedthemaway.SydneystoodbesideRobby,motionless and transfixed. Ben’s hands slid down from their position onHallie’sshoulders,findingherwaistwherehewrappedhisarmsaroundher,holding her as emotion welled up in her throat. This was the start ofsomethingwonderful.Halliecouldfeelit.

Ben’sphonerangashe leanedagainst thewhitebrickof the lighthouse.Hepeereddownatthescreen,hisbrowspullingtogether.

“Everythingokay?”Hallieasked.ShesatdownintheshadedgrassnexttowhereBenstood,her flip-flops lyingbesideherbare feet as she leanedherheadagainstthelighthouse,andclosedhereyestotakeinthesaltyairandthepurejoythatshefeltafterbreakfastthismorning.

“It’sAshley.”Hedidn’tanswerandtheringingfinallystopped.Heputhisphonebackinhispocket.“I’llcallherlater.”

Hallie lookedupathimandhe loweredhimselfdownnext toher. “I’mworried,Ben.”

“Whatareyouworriedabout?”

“I’dhate toseeyouloseoutonsomeonewonderful.Youwouldn’thavestarted datingAshley if you didn’t see a futurewith her. I know you.Youaren’tashort-termdatingkindofguy.Sowhydidyoustartdatingher?”

“Itoldyou.BecauseIthoughtI’dlostyou.”

“Andnow?”

“I’m willing to take my chances.” He gave Hallie a warm look thatknottedherstomach.

“That’snotfairtome,”shesaid.

“Whatdoyoumeanbythat?”

Hallieswallowedandtriedtogetthewordstocomeout,wheneverythinginsideherwasscreamingtosaysomethingdifferent.“Ijustdon’twantyoutothink that there’sachance for somethingmorebetweenuswhen I’venevertoldyoutherewouldbe.”

Benproppedhiskneesupandrestedhisarmsonthemashelookedoutattheocean,hisexpressionfrustrated.“You’renotmakingsensetome,Hallie.”He turned back to her. “I’m getting mixed signals from you. But even ifthere’snochanceforyouandmeatall, intheend,Ican’tdateAshley.”He

puthisfacerightinherlineofsight.“I’minlovewithyou.Completelyandtotallyinlovewithyou.Idon’tknowwhatmoretosaythanthat.”

Thelumphadfounditswaybackintoherthroatandherchestachedwithhisadmission.Hewasright.Shewassendinghimmixedsignals.Shehadtogiveiteverythingshehad,andnotletherfeelingsforhimshow.“WhatifItoldyouthatIdon’teverplantogetmarried?Idon’twantto.”

Hehuffedoutasighofdisbelief.“I’dsaythat’sweird,sinceIknowhowlongyou’ve thought about yourwedding, but okay. It doesn’tmatter.Whatmatterstomeisbeingwithyou.”

“AndIdon’teverplantohavechildren,”shesaid,thelastwordstingingonitswayout.Asobroseinherthroatbutshesuppressedit.

Benstaredather,histhoughtsunreadable.Thetideebbedandflowedonthe shore, constantlycallingout its song,a starkcontrast to the silence thatrestedbetweenherandBen.“You?Youdon’twantafamily?”

Sheshookherhead,unabletosayanythingmore.Shewantedtohideinhischest,tofeelhisembrace,tohearthesweetsoundofhisvoiceashetoldherhecouldfixthis.Butsheknewthatwasn’tapossibility.

“Ever?”

“No,”shecroaked,before the tearscame likea tidalwave.Shebrushedthemawayangrily,oneafter another.ApictureofBen lastnight at the fairwithRobbyonhisshoulders,laughingwithhim,gettinghimthecottoncandy—likesnapshotsinhermind,bangingtogetherandcreatingapiercingnoiseinherhead.SheknewhowgreatBenwaswithchildren,andafterlastnightshe also knew that not only did she have to protect Robby and Ben’srelationship, but she could never take fatherhood fromBen.Thatwould beselfish.

Ben looked down at the grass, fiddling with a piece of it, those ever-present thoughts inhiseyes turning toquestions,and then, there itwas: thedisappointmentshefeared.Thatlookwrappedaroundhersoul,stranglingher.

“I’m sorry,” she said, her breath shallow, feeling like the world wascrashingdownaroundher.

“We’llfigureitout,”hesaid.

Halliestoodup.“There’snothingtofigureoutatall.Youdeservetohavea family if you want one.” She faced the gulf, the turquoise water doingnothingtocalmher.

“Wecantalkaboutthislater,”hesaid.

“No.This is done.”Shewaggledher fingerbetween them. “I loveyou,Ben.You’remybestfriend.Butthat’sallwecanbe.”

Forthefirsttimeinherlife,Benlookedvulnerable.She’dhurthim.Butifthey became anything more than friends, even greater pain would beinevitable. Best to get the disappointment out of the way before anythingbegan.Shewassavingthembothalotofheartacheandregret.

“I’m going into town to seeGavin,” she said, attempting to get herselftogether.“Hesaidhehassomethingtotellme.”Beforesheturnedaway,shesaid,“PleasethinkitthroughproperlybeforeyoutalktoAshleyagain.She’sreallygreat.”

Ben didn’t look at her. He just sat, stunned, shaking his head, and shewonderedifhebelievedher.Hehadto.Itwasassimpleasthat.

TWENTY-SIX

Halliepushedthegallerydooropenandsteppedintotheicyair-conditionedentryway.Gavinwastalkingtoacoupleaboutoneofhispaintingswhenhewavedtoher,andmotionedforhertogivehimjustaminutetofinishupwiththecustomers.Shewanderedovertotheroomthatheldherphotography,andimmediatelynoticedthreeblankspotswhereherpictureshadbeen.ItlookedlikeGavinmighthavesoldanotherone.

“Hithere!”Gavinsaid,walkinginlikearayofsunshine.

“Didyousellmylighthousedoorphoto?”

Hissmilewidened.“Yep.”

“Ohmygoodness!That’sthree!”

“Well,Ihavebetternewsthanthat.”

“Whatisit?”

Another few people walked past them, telling Gavin goodbye as theyheadedout.Thebellsonthedoorjingledtosignaltheirexit.

“There’sthisnewmagazinecalledSouthernRush—haveyouheardofit?”

She had. It was the latest up-and-coming national home decoratingpublication.AuntClarahadboughtasubscriptiontoitlastyear.Eventhroughherstruggles,shewanted tobeon thecuttingedgeofherprofession.She’dtoldHalliethatthismagazinewassogoodbecauseshethoughtitwasrightonthecuspofthenextbigthingindesign.“Iknowit,”she’dsaid.

“Ihopeyoudon’tmind,butIspoketoaneditorforthemagazine—she’d

doneanarticleaboutmesoIhadhercontactinformation.Itoldheryouwereaphotographerbutalsoadesigner,preparingfor the launchofyourCoastalComfort brand, and I emailed her your photographs and the furniture youfoundtogowiththem.Shelovedthesortofone-stop-southern-shopconceptyou’vecreated,andshewantstodoapieceonyoufortheirDecemberissue.”

Halliegasped.“You’rekidding.”Shecouldn’tbelieveit.Andthenawarmrush of happiness filled her. Gavin had called her a “designer.” Until thatmoment,therehadonlybeenonedesignerinthefamily.CouldtherereallybedesigninHallie’sfuture?Shetriedthetitleoninhermind.Designer.Couldshe eventually move past her Coastal Comfort series and do more? AuntClarahadaneyeforart,andshecouldchoosebeautifulpiecesforherclients,butHallieplanned tobuildonAuntClara’sdesign strategy, commissioningentire linesof furniture togoalongwithherart. Insteadof justdesigningaroom for a client, she couldgive themaone-of-a-kind ensemble that she’dcreatedusing theclient’sspecific tastesand ideas.Shecould fill their roomwith photographs of the client’s family and items they treasured, matchfurniturecolorstothecolorsoftheirlivesthatweredisplayedonthewall…

“She’dliketogiveyouacall,justforaninterview.”

“Ofcourse.”

This new identityHallie ponderedwas thrilling but terrifying all at thesame time.She knewher planswere bigger than anyof her projects at theagency.She’ddone full-scale advertisingdisplays atmajor venues, but thatwasnothingcomparedtorunninganongoingbusinesslikeshewasthinkingabout.AuntClara’swerebigshoestofill, ifHallieweregoingtosurviveinthehomedesignworld.ShehadtheFlynnfamilyname,sooncepeopleknewwho shewas theywould undoubtedly compare her toAuntClara.Was sheready for that type of scrutiny?And even if shewere, she’d need funds tobuildherbusiness.Herideasweregrandalreadyandshefeltlikeshe’dbarelyscratchedthesurface.AuntClarahadstartedsmall,butHallie’s initial ideaswould requiremoremoney than she had. She didn’t even know if shewasgoing to get an inheritance, but if she did, would it be enough to getsomethingthisbigoff theground?Halliefelt theoverwhelmingneedtousetheplatformofSouthernRushtobringherideastolife,butthetimingwasn’t

good.Herbusinesswasstillinitsinfancy.

Despite her concerns, she could hear her aunt’s dreamlike voice:Don’teverbeafraidofanything.Justjumpin…

Itseemedtoovasttogetherheadaround,butshestruggledtothinkofitinsmallerterms.ThenotionofitfeltsonaturaltoHalliethatshecouldn’tgoback to just photography. It didn’t feel whole to her anymore without theotherpiecesof thedesignprocess.But she’dhave somuch to learn.Halliecouldn’tpossiblybeadesigner…Couldshe?

“Iwaswonderingifyouwantedtogointotownandtakeafewshots.Youbroughtyourcamera,right?”Gavinsaid,interruptingherinnerdeliberations.

“Ididbringit,”shesaid,feelinganoverwhelmingneedtogetstartedandcreate.ShewantedtoturnherCoastalComfortseriesintoaCoastalComfortline,withallthedécoroptionsanyonecouldpossiblywant.Whileshehadnoideahowshe’dmanage it, theonlyway to findoutwas toget started. “I’dloveto.”She’dfoundthattheworldseemednearlyperfectthroughthelensofhercamera.Andrightnowshewanted toshutoutall the thingsshehadonher mind and focus on her Coastal Comfort line, starting with thephotography.

“Hopinthetruck,”hesaidwithaconspirator’sgrin.Hallieunderstooditperfectly.Therewasnooneelsewhoknewwhat it felt like tobeunder thespellofacamera,otherthanGavin.Shejumpedin.

Hepulledoutof thedriveandheaded towardFireflyBeach.Theemptyroad stretchedbefore them, a single gray slip of surface hugging the coast.Hallie’swindowwasdown,herelbowproppedupontheopening,thewindpushingagainstherfaceasshetookincolorsandtextures,storingthemawayforlater.

“Where are we headed?” she asked, wondering what he’d meant by“town.”Wouldshefindalineofwhitepicketfencesorashopdoorcoveredinseashells?Orwouldtheygotothepublicbeach?Sheimaginedtinyfeetinthesand,seagullsperchedonbuoys…

“I’dplannedthisawhileagoandIwasgoingtogobymyself,butthenI

thought of you, and it occurred tome that I don’t have to do things aloneanymorewhenIhave friends in thearea.”He lookedoveratHallie,happy.“I’vescheduledacharter.There’saboatdockedoff thepublic landingwithournamesonit.Wannatakeaquickboatride?”

“Oh,I’dloveto!”

“We’regoingtoanislandoffthecoast.It’sfullofsealifeandpanoramicviews.I’vebeentheretwicebeforeonmyown,butitwouldbenicetohaveanotherphotographer’sperspective.Wecouldgetsomereallygreatshots.”

WhenHalliehadfirstmetGavin,she’dbeenintimidatedbyhistalent,yethere hewas treating her like an equal in his profession.Maybe shewasn’tsupposed tohavea familyor find thatperfectperson,but this shewas sureabout.AuntClarahadseenitwaybeforeHalliehad,andnowitwassoclear.PerhapsitwasbecausesheandAuntClaraweresosimilar.Andjustlikeheraunt,Halliefoundhappinessinthiswork.Shejusthopedthatshe,too,wouldfind it enough to fulfill her completely.Maybe one day shewouldn’t thinkaboutthefamilyshe’dneverhave;maybeshewouldstopfeelingthevoidatsomepoint.ShewonderedifAuntClaraeverfeltlikeshe’dmissedoutbynothavingchildren.Hadherworkbeenenough?InHallie’scase,itwouldhavetobe.

Shewasn’tsurehowtomakeitallhappen,butsheknewthattherewasnowayshecouldgobacktoheroldjobnowandbehappy.PerhapssheshouldliveoffhersavingsforawhilelikeSydneywasdoing.Theonlyproblemwasthatshedidn’thaveenough,andifAuntClarahadleftheraninheritance,shecouldn’taccessituntilshe’dcompletedthelist.Howwouldsheeverfinishit?

Gavin parked the truck and grabbed his camera from behind the seat.Halliegotoutand immediately linedupashot.Bobbing in thewaterwasagleamingwhitesportcruiser.Sheshieldedherviewwithherhandtotemperthe champagne sunlight that glistened off the waves and the boat’s silversurfaces.Hallietwistedherlens,liningupthewaterinbalancewiththesky,theboatjustoffcenter,likeapearlagainsttheindigohorizon.Shesnappedaphoto just as two seagulls soared together overhead, their shadows likeperfectarches.

“Ican’tevengetyouontotheboat,”Gavinsaidwithalaugh.

Hehoppedaboardandheldouthishand toguideher.Shesteppedontothedockandthenoverthesideoftheboat,hangingontoGavinforsupportasherweightrockedthevesselslightly.

“That’s why I enjoy beingwith you,” he said. “I find your enthusiasminspiring.Youseeeverythingasifitwereashot.Howhaveyounotbecomeaphotographerbeforenow?”Heshookhishead.

“IsupposeI justneededtomeet therightperson togetmestarted,”shesaid,makinghimsmile.

Gavin tossed her a life vest and cranked the engine. The gulf wavessloshed against the side of the boat, and a gust ofwind blewHallie’s hairbehindher shouldersashebacked it away from thedock.Hallie saton thevinylcushionatthebackandfacedthesun.Shetiltedherheaduptofeelitswarmth on her skin alongwith the spray of the sea as the boat picked upspeed,theenginepurringunderher.Withnothingbutavastseaaheadandahorizonasshinyasasapphire,itwaseasytoforgetwhattroubledher.Evenifshe tried, the thoughts got hung up on their way into her mind as theyattempted to filter through the summer heat, the earthy scent of the hissingoceanwaves,andthecoastalbreezepushingheragainsttheseatoftheboat.Hallietookinabiggulpofair,lettingitsaturateherwithsummertime.Thesewere thesmellsandsoundsofherchildhood,andeverywonderfulmemoryshehadwaswrappedupinthisatmosphere.

Gavinpointedofftowardtheirleftatasmallislandfloatinginthemidstof theenormousgulf, the lushgreenof itscentercontrastingwith thewhitesand beaches that lined its edge.Hallie held on to the boat handle to keepherselfsteadyasGavinchangeddirectionsandheadedtowardit.Astheygotcloser,Halliebracedherselfagainstthebackoftheseatandsnappedashot.She cupped her hands over the screen in an attempt to view it, but all shecould see was the meandering coastline snaking along the bottom of thepicture.Itlookedlikeitcouldbeakeeperthough,bytheshapeoftheshoreanditspositioning.Shecouldn’twaittoseeitoncetheygotbacktoGavin’s.

They dropped anchor after Gavin pulled the nose of the boat onto the

beach,bringingthemtoasoftslideofastop.Witheverybreath,shefeltmorelikeherselfinthecoastalrhythmofseaandwind,hercamerastraparoundherneck, themassof thickmetal inherhands.The feelof the focusunderherfingerswaswhatsheimaginedthekeystofeellikeforUncleHankwhenheplayedpiano:naturalandfluent.Halliezeroed inonastarfish thatwashalfburied in thepowderywhite sand,waiting toget her shotuntil a bundleofdriedkelpfloatedby.

Gavinwalkedupnexttoher,hiscameraathisface,shootingoneofthepalmtrees.“It’sexquisitehere,isn’tit?”hesaid,loweringhiscamera.Heletithangaroundhisneckandwalkedovertothewater,steppingintoitwithhisbarefeetanddippinghishandin.Hescoopedupasanddollar.“Lookatthisbeautifulcreature.”

Hallie ran her finger over the five-point star in its center, having neverseenonethisdeepbrowncolor,onlytojumpbackwhenthespinesstartedtomovearoundtheedgeofit.

“It’sstillalive,”Gavinsaid.“Didyouknowthatyouaren’tsupposed tokeepitifit’salive?”Hesetitbackinthewaterandtookaphotoofitthroughtheclearsurf.“Theyturnwhiteoncetheydie,whenthesunbleachesthem.Ifindthemoddlycomfortingbecausetheirbeautycomesindeath.”Helookedbackdownatit.“Iliketothinkthatthere’ssomegoodindeath,somecosmicpurposeinit.”

“Ithinkthereis,”Halliesaid.“IfeelmyAuntClaraeverywhere.Ithinkthey’restillwithus,justnolongeramongus.”

“Ibattlewith that idea,because ifGwen iswithme then it’sdifficult tomoveon.”

“ButI thinkshe’dwantyouto.Youcan’tstopyour lifeforeverbecauseherswascutshort.Thatwouldbetwotragedies.”

“Ihadthisideatomovedownherewherenooneknewme,findapurposethatcouldmakethedaysmorebearable,andthensettleintothatlifeuntilitstartedtofeelnormal.EventuallymaybeIcouldevenlearntoloveagain.”Hewalked out of thewater onto the sand and sat down.Hallie plopped downnext tohim.“I rebuilt thehousebecause thatwasalwaysourplan, and if I

didn’tjustcontinueon,I’dfallapart.ThenIdecidedtomoveintoit,toleavemy job and see where life took me, all the while forcing myself to moveforward.ButsometimesIstillfalter.”

“That’sunderstandable.It’shardtolosesomeonelikethat.”

“I’m so glad for your friendship.Youmakeme feel like I’mnot crazy,likethere’smoreaheadforme.”

“Ditto,”shesaid,holdinguphercamera.

Thatmadehimsmile.

WhenHallie pulled up, Benwas throwing a ball to Beau in the driveway.“I’vebeenwaitingforyou,”hesaid,withanintensitytohiswords,asshegotoutofthecar.HechuckedtheballacrosstheyardandBeaurantoretrieveit.“Weneedtotalk.”

Hallieshut thecardoorandsteppedupbesidehimashe led theway totheguesthouse.Somethingwasdifferentabouthim,but shecouldn’tdecidewhatitwas,andthatmadeheruneasy.She’dalwaysrecognizedhisemotionsthe instant he had them, but this was something dissimilar to his usualdemeanor.

Benopened thedoor and lethergo in first.Beaucaughtupand trottedbehindthem,droppingtheballatBen’sfeetandlappinguphiswaterfromthebowlbythekitchenisland.

“Whydidn’tyou feel likeyoucould talk tome?”heasked,his eyes sopenetratingthatshehadtositdownonthesofa.Hejoinedher.

“About what?” she asked, already fearful of what he’d found out. Theshame and guilt she felt for losing the baby rushed back in. It didn’tmakesense to feel blame—her therapist had tried to tell her that, and they’d hadlengthyconversationsaboutvisualizingdifferentfeelingsinrelationtothis—butherfeelingofbrokennessalwayssurfaced,andwithitcameshame.

“Sydneytoldmewhathappened.Withyourpregnancy.”

Nowshefeltbetrayed.Itwasherstory to tell.“Howdareshe tellyou,”Halliestarted,butBencutheroff.

“No. Don’t misplace your anger on Sydney. She told me because Iconfided inher. I fell apartonher. I toldher that Idon’tknowhow to livewithoutyouandit’skillingme.”Heranhishandsacrosshisface,makingitred.“Ipleadedwithher tohelpmeunderstandyoubecauseIdidn’tallofasudden.Youweren’tmakinganysense.You’vealwayswantedtogetmarriedandhavea family, andone loserof aguywouldn’t change that insideyou.You’rethemostoptimisticpersonIknow.Andyou’dbouncebackfromthat.IneededanswersandIpressedherforthem.”

“Sonowyousee,”Halliesaidquietly,tearssurfacing.

“Why didn’t you just tell me you couldn’t have children? That’s waydown the line. And when we did have to face it, we could figure it outtogether.”

“I don’twant you to have to figure it out. I saw the disappointment inyoureyeswhenIsaidIwasn’tgoingtohaveafamily,Ben,”shesaid.

“MydisappointmentwasthatIthoughtIknewyoubetterthananyoneandI’dmisreadsomething.Iwasdisappointedinmyselffornotcatchingit.Butthemore I thought about it, themore I believed there was something elsegoing on because I do know you, Hallie. I know you better than I knowmyself.”Hereachedoverandwipedhertear.“Youneverdisappointme.”

“You say that now, but years down the road, if we’re together, I don’twant you to have regrets.You’ve toldme before that youwant a family—yourownchildren,alittleboywholookslikeyou.”Shebrushedanothertearaway.“You’vesaiditsincewewerekids.AndIcan’tgivethattoyou.We’reatan impassebecauseIwon’t letyousettlefor less thanwhatyouought tohave.”

“Tellmeyoudon’tloveme,andI’llstoptrying,”hedemanded.“Tellmethatyouwouldn’tliketowakeupnexttoeachothereverymorning,tospendtherestofourlivestogether, toknowthatnomatterwhatourdaywaslike,wewouldalwayscomehometooneanother.Tellme,Hallie.”

Hallie couldn’t lie to him. She could never say she didn’t love him orwantthosethingsbecausethatwasn’ttrue.Hervisionblurredwithhertears.

“Whycan’twe just take it daybyday?Dowehave tohaveourwholelivesplannedout?”

Shetookinacalmingbreath.“No,wedon’t.ButeverytimeIlookatyou,I’llberemindedofwhatIknowyouwantandwhatIcan’tgiveyou.AndIdon’twanttolivelikethatbecausetheguiltwouldruinme.It’snothealthy.IfI’mevergoing togetover this, Ihave tomove forwardwithno ties to thepast.”

HalliehadneverseensuchunhappinessinBen’sfacebefore.Andnothinghadmadeherheartachelikehissorrowdidrightthen,becausesheknewthatkindofsadness.Hefeltloss.Justlikeshe’dfeltwhenshelostthebaby,andwhenshe’dlostAuntClara.Shecouldseeitinhiseyes.Andshecouldn’tdoanythingaboutit.Sheneededareprievebeforeshecompletelybrokedown.

“Ineedtotakeawalk,”shesaid.

Bendidn’tanswer.

“I’mgoingoutonthebeach.I’dlikesometimetobealoneforawhile.”

Hefinallymethereyes.“Okay.”

“I’msosorry,”Sydneysaid, joiningHallieinthegazebo.ShesatdownandputherhandonHallie’sthighasremorsepouredfromherface.

Halliehadbeencryingouttheresolongthatshe’dlosttrackoftime.Theeveningskyhadputonagloriousshowoforanges,pinks,andpurplesasthesunset,butitdidnothingtosootheher.Halliehadbarelynoticed.Hereyesswollen and stinging, she looked out at the beach for the fireflies, but theyweren’tthere.She’dprobablymissedthem.

“IwentbytheguesthousetocheckonBenandhetoldmeyoutwohadtalked.”Sydneyleanedin,demandingHallie’sattention.“Itwasn’tmyplaceto tell him, Hallie,” she said, welling up. “I know that. But he lookedcompletely shattered. I felt an overwhelming need tomake himunderstand

thathewasn’ttheissue.IcouldguesswhatwaskeepingyoufrombeingwithBenjustbylisteningtohisside,andIhadtotellhim.”

Hallie squeezedher eyes shut, feelinghollow. It didn’tmatternowwhotoldwhom,oranyofit.Therealityofthesituationhadsettleduponher,andHalliedidn’tknowwheretogofromhere.

“What I said aboutRobby, I didn’t understandwhatwas going onwithyouandBen.I’msorryIsaidanythingatall.PleaseknowthatI’dneverstandinthewayofthetwoofyou,knowinghowstronglyyoufeelforeachother.”

“Iknow,”wasallshecouldgetout.Shedidn’twant tosaytherewasn’tanythinggoingonbetweenherandBenbecauseshewasn’treallysureifthatwastrue.Allsheknewwasthatshewasheartbroken.

SydneyputherarmaroundherandHallieleanedonhershoulder.

“Doyouthinkyoutwowillgetpastthis?”Sydneyasked.

Hallieshookherheadandshrugged,lost.

“It’satoughthing…”Sydneypulledhercloser.“Butnomatterwhat,it’sokayforthetwoofyoutostillbefriends.Youknowhe’llalwaysbethereforyou.”

“Yeah.”Hallie tracedthegrainofwoodalongthebenchwheretheysat,considering the ideaofbeing just friends. If theycouldgoback to thewaytheywere, shecould stillhaveBen just like shealwayshad, andwhile shewouldforeverwantmore,maybetheycouldgetpastitintimeandjustexistinthatnotionthattheycouldn’thaveitall.AndBenwouldeventuallymoveonandfindthatperfectpersonwhocouldgivehimafamily.

With no other possible answers, Hallie had no choice but to move on,evenifitwaskillingher.Sheresolvedtoputhereffortinwhatfulfilledherasaperson.ShewouldsinkherselfintoCoastalComfortandworkonherplansforaneventualline.ShehadgivenGavinhernumberandshewasexpectingacall from themagazine tomorrow. Itwas time topushallher sorrowsasideandgetherselfreadyforthatcall.

TWENTY-SEVEN

Hallie was up the next morning even before Mama had started makingbreakfast. Her computer sat on the kitchen table, its screen full of Hallie’simages,multipleinternettabsopentolocalfurnituremakersaswellascandleand linen companies. She’d sent emails to various businesses, introducingherself and her new business, and asking them if they’d be interested incollaborating on décor to complement the color scheme in her CoastalComfort series. She’d even asked the locally known Ridley FurnitureCompany if they’d like to enter into a partnership to produce some of herdesigns if she sent themover. She’d drawn dresserswith inlays of the fivepoints on the sand dollar engraved in a pattern over the surface of eachdrawer,chairswithlegsthecolorofthegulfsand,lampswithtealandazureblownglass…Shehadquiteafewideas,andtheywerecomingtoherfasterthanshecoulddrawthem,hersketchesspreadoverthetable.

Hallie’scomputerpingedwithanemailandsheopeneditimmediately,aflutter of excitement rippling through her. Ridley Furniture Company hadcomebacktoherbeforebusinesshoursbegan.Knowingheraunt,theywereveryinterestedandwantedtomeetwithher.

ItwasimportantthatHalliedistinguishherowntalentsfromthedynastyset forth byAuntClara.With all her ideas in amuddle, she opened a newdocument on her laptop and began to devise a business plan. She neededorganization and she needed it fast. She began to type. Overview: HallieFlynn Design provides luxury, one-of-a-kind home concepts for upscalebeachgoers.Weaimtobetheleadingbrandinhomedécorbyputtingpeoplefirst at all costs. AtHallie FlynnDesign, the customer is not just a fellow

beachlover—sheisfamily.

Then she started planning the logistics, scribbling notes onto paper andmadly clicking through search results on her computer. She started to jotdown ideas on her strategies and how she’d get the business going, goals,timelines…

Thenshereplied to theemail, sayingshecouldstopby todayand to letherknowagoodtime.

“Goodmorning,”Mamasaid,breakingHallie’sconcentration.

“Morning,”shesaid,asMamapeeredoverthechairtoviewallthepapersspreadoverthetable.“YouknowthosephotosI’vebeentaking?Look,”shesaid,turninghercomputeraround.

Mamagaspedandcamecloser.“Oh,honey,they’regorgeous!”

“I’vebeenthinkingaboutfollowinginAuntClara’sfootsteps,butI’ddoita little differently, addmyown twist.”Hallie showedherwhat she’d typedand the different ideas she had for home furnishings. “I thought aboutcontactingSashaMorgantoseeifshehadanypointersforme.Shemightbeabletolookovermybusinessmodel,sinceshehassomuchexperience.”

“Maybe you could work for her until you get on your feet,” Mamasuggested.

“Maybe…ButIreallyfeeltheneedtodothismyway.”

Mama smiled. “You have always had your own view of things. UncleHankwentonandonaboutyourphotographsafteryouallhadlunchtheotherday,andIwasgoingtoaskyoutoshowmeonceeverythingcalmeddown.”Mama cinched the belt of her housecoat tighter and then took a seat at thetable,draggingoneofHallie’sdrawingstowardherwithafinger.“You’resotalented,” she said, lookingup at her, butHallie could tell shehadmore tosay.

ShewaitedforMamatotellher.

“Iseethesparkleinyoureyewhenyou’redoingsomethingcreative.It’salways been there. But lately that sparkle has been absent quite a bit.

Somethingisbotheringyou.I’mworriedaboutyouandSydney,”Mamasaid.“Yoursisterwasbesideherselfyesterdaybutshewouldn’ttellmewhatwaswrong,exceptithadsomethingtodowithyou.Iwonderedifyou’dexplainittome.”

Halliehadn’ttoldhermotheraboutthebabyfortworeasons:one,itwastoodifficultforHallieemotionallytotellanyonebutthecounselor,andtwo,AuntClarahadjustpassedawayandMamawassogrief-strickenthatHalliejustcouldn’tadd to it.Whileshedidn’twant to relive the tragedyof losingher first child or to think about her health concerns right now, StarlightCottagewasaboutfamilyandbeingthereforoneanother.Hermotherneededtounderstandwhathadhappened.“Let’smakeacupofcoffee,”Halliesaid,“andthenI’lltellyoueverything.”

Hallieandhermotherwerestillatthetabletalkinganhourlater.Mamawassupportive and loving. She’d evenmoved to the chair besideHallie so thatshecouldputherarmsaroundher.ItfeltgoodtotellMamaeverything.Hallierealizedthatitwassomuchbetterwhenpeopleknewbecauseshedidn’tfeellikeshewasfacingitallalone.Andtohersurprise,noonehadlookedatherdifferently.Hallie felt protectedbyher familyand sheknew that,whileherfutureplanswerestilluncertain,they’dbewithheralongtheway.

“Whydon’tyouaskBentobreakfast,honey,”Mamasaid.“I’msurehe’llwanderinatsomepoint,butitmightbegoodforyoutobetheonetogethim.I’llbethe feelsprettyuncertainat themoment.Heneeds toknow thathe’sfamilynomatterwhathappenswiththetwoofyou.Andhealsoneedstofeelthatyou,too,arethereforhim.”

“Okay,”Halliesaid,pilingupherpapersandclosingher laptop.“WhenshouldItellhimbreakfastwillbeready?”

“I’mmakingsausage,egg,andcheesecasserole,so itshouldbedone inaboutforty-fiveminutes.”

Hallie slippedher flip-flopson, andgathered the items intoher arms todropoffinthesewingroombeforeheadingovertotheguesthouse.Therewas

asmallpartofherthatworriedaboutseeingBen,becauseshewasn’tsureifshecouldkeepherfeelingsforhimfromshowingandshedidn’twantanotherroundofyes-we-can-no-we-can’t.Butshemissedhim.Therewassomethinginsideher thatcamealivewheneverhewaswithher.Nooneelsecoulddothat.

Themorningwaswarm,butthebreezeslidingoffthegulfwasstillcool,washingoverheronherwaydownthepathto theguesthouse.Thefamiliarsongoftheseasangtoherlikeithadsomanydaysofherlife.Itwasalwaysthereforher,whisperingasiftosay,“Shh.It’sokay.”Hallieknockedonthedoor, andwhen no one answered the first thing she did was check Beau’swaterbowl,tomakesureBenhadn’tleftagain.Thestainlesssteelbowlwasstillthere,halffull.Halliegotthehide-a-keyandopenedthedoor.

“Ben?”shecalled,steppinginside.

Beautrotteduptoher,histailwaggingfuriously,andputhisforeheadonherleg.

“Where’sBen?”sheasked,strokingBeau’sback.

BeauwentovertohisbedandcurleduponitjustasHalliesawapieceofpaperonthecounter.

GonetoseeAshley.

Hallie turned thepaperover tocheck theotherside.Noexplanation,nofurtherdetails.But thensheremembered thatshe’d toldhimheshouldgivethingsachancewithAshley.Perhapsthatwaswhathewasdoing.Atwingeof unease snaked through her at the thought, but it was the right thing foreveryone.Ashleywasawonderfulperson,andshewasgoodtoBen.Withamixture of hope for Ben and sadness and disappointment over her owncircumstances,HalliesaidgoodbyetoBeauandlefttheguesthouse.

UncleHankplayedpianothismorning,andatbreakfastHalliebroughtuphermostrecentideas—HallieFlynnDesignandherCoastalComfortdécorline,

which would branch off from her Coastal Comfort series of photographs.Everyonewasthrilledtohearitandtheconversationlastednearlythewholemeal,whichwasfinewithHalliebecauseshedidn’thavetothinkaboutBen.After, tokeepher spiritsup,Hallie threwherself intowork.She researchedpossible website designs, domain names, and online content options. Shemappedoutmoreofherbusinessplan,polishingituptotakewithherwhenshemetwithChaseBlytheatRidleyFurniture later today.She’dgonebackandforthabitmorewithhimonemail,andheseemedveryinterestedinherideas.

She was so deep in thought that she almost didn’t notice Uncle Hanksmilingfromthedoorwayofthekitchen,whereshesatwithhercomputer.

“DoyouknowwhatIlovemostaboutthisview?”heasked.

Sheclosedherlaptopandgavehimherfullattention.

Uncle Hank came over and sat down across from her. “The completeconcentration I see on your face when you’re working. It’s the sameexpressionClaraused togetwhenI’dpop intoheroffice.Sometimesshe’dworkafewminutesbeforesherealizedIwasatthedoor.ButIneverminded,becauseshewasdoingexactlywhatshewasputonearthtodo.Ithinkyou’rethesame.”

“A furniture maker and a magazine reporter want to talk to me aboutCoastalComfort,butIworrybecausetheyknowI’mAuntClara’sniece.I’msortofusinghername…”

“Noyou’renot.”Hecrossedhis forearmson the table. “You’ve createdthestartofyourownidentitywithHallieFlynnDesign;youjusthappentoberelatedtoClara.You’reallowedtotellpeoplethat.WhatClarawasworriedaboutwasyoukidsusinghernametogetaheadyourselves.Youaren’tdoinganysuchthing.You’vedonethisallonyourown.”

HalliewasrelievedtohaveUncleHank’sblessing. Itmadeher feel likesomehowitwasAuntClarasayingitwasallokay.“I’mstartingtoseeAuntClara’s purpose in makingme complete the list. It’s like she knewwhat Ineeded.”

“Ofcourseshedid,”UncleHanksaid,awistfulsmileonhisface.

“Although I don’t know what making a sandcastle has to do withanything.”

Uncle Hank laughed and then looked out the window briefly beforesaying,“Maybethatonewasforme.Ienjoyedit.”

“You’vecomealongwaytoo.”

Henodded.

“Thinkyou’llseeLewisagain?”

“Idon’tknow.It’sdifficulttoreversedecadesoffeelingsinadayortwo.It’snoteasy.ButIthinkIcanmanageifhefillshisseatatthetable.”

“That’sagoodplacetostart.”

Once she’d driven into town,Hallie had a fewminutes to burn before hermeeting with Mr. Blythe of Ridley Furniture, which was helpful becauseAshleywasstandingoutsideofSallyAnn’sBakery.ShewavedatHallie togetherattentionasHallieparked.Withherlaptopandbagofsketchesinthefrontseatofhercar,shelockedupandcrossedthestreet.

“IthoughtyouwerewithBen,”Halliesaid.“Heleftanote…”

Ashley’sfacewasfreshlypowdered,herlipsadewycoralcolor,butwhenshe looked closely, Hallie noticed the rims of her eyes were pink. Ashleyproducedamillion-dollar smileand fiddledwithherhandbag. “Hecame toseeme,butheleftalready,andIdecidedthatIneededasliceofSallyAnn’speachcobblerwithvanillaicecream.”

“Thatsoundsamazing.”

“Yeah,”shesaid,“peachcobblersolvesanything.”Shesniffled,buttriedtocoveritupbytakinginadeepbreathandpushingtheairoutwithasmile.

“DidsomethinghappenbetweenyouandBen?”

Ashleyputhersunglassesonwithashakyhand.“Hetoldmehowhefeels

aboutyou,”shesaid.“AndnowIunderstandwhy it isn’t fair forhimtobewithme.AndIcan’tblamehimforendingthingsifhe’sinlove.Whileitstillhurts, I’mcomingto termswith it,and if Ihad to losehimtosomeone, I’dwantittobesomeonelikeyou.”

“Oh,Ashley,I’msosorrythingsdidn’tworkout.Itriedtotellhimhowwonderfulyouare…”

“Ifhisfeelingsaren’tthere,there’snothingIcando.He’sagreatguyandhewaskindintellingme,andsweetforlistening.Itjustwasn’trightforus.Ithurts,butit’sokay.”

Halliegaveherahug.“Ifyoueverwanttotalk,I’mhere.”

“Thankyou,Hallie.Ihopethingsworkoutwithyoutwo.”Withawobblysmile,AshleyopenedthedoorofSallyAnn’sBakery.“I’llseeyoulater,”shesaid.

HalliesaidgoodbyeandheadedacrossthestreettomeetwithMr.Blythe.

Sheonlywaitedafewminutesbeforehegreetedher inthelobbyof theshowroom.“Chase,”he said, shakingherhand. “Soyou’re thenieceof theinfamousClaraFlynn.”Halliewouldhavetogetusedtobeingreferencedassuch.Itwasonlynatural,givenAuntClara’sreputation,butoneday,Halliehopedthathernamemightcomefirstinconversation.

“Yes.Mydesignideasareabitdifferentfromhers,butwebothsharedthesamepassionforsure.”

“Well,let’sseewhatyou’vegotandhowwecanhelp,”Chasesaid.

Halliepulledoutherlaptopandopeneditonthecounterwiththeregister.“Ihaveaspecificcolorpaletteinmind,andI’mlookingtodesignpatternsonthefurniturethatwouldmimicthoseinthephotographs—notmatchy-matchybutmoresubtle…”

Hallie continued to review her concepts with Chase, and she was soinspiredthatshestoppedtwicetojotdownmorethoughtsonherwayhomeafterspeaking tohim.He toldherhis ideasand theydiscussed the termsoftheirpartnership.Shecouldn’thavebeenmore thrilled.Notonlywouldshebeabletoshowcasethefurnitureonherwebsite,buthe’dcarrythepiecesin-

storeaswell.Theywerestartingsmall,withtheideathattheycouldbuildashercompanyandclientsgrew.

Shecouldn’twaittotellGavinallaboutitandseewhathe’dbewillingtoputintheroomwithherartwork,soshestoppedbythegalleryonherwayoutoftown.

“That’s amazing,” he said when she told him. “And we’ll have a littlemorespacewithout theeasel thatheldyour sunset shot.You’llbehappy toknowthatIsoldit.”

“Youdid?”The idea thatstrangerswouldhaveherphotographson theirwallswasnearlyunbelievable.Halliepeekedintotheroomwithherphotos,andeveryblankspacegavehermorecouragetomoveforwardwithherplans.

“Yep.I’msohappyforyou!How’syourwebsitecoming?”

“Iquicklylookedintoitthismorning,butitmightbeagoodideatogetyourtakeonafewthings,”shesaid,stillreelingfromitall.Truthfully,she’dlove nothing more than to spend her time collaborating with Gavin. ShewonderedifperhapsworkingwithherhelpedGavinavoidhisdarkthoughtsthesamewayitdidforher.Inaway,theyneededeachothertogetthroughthehardtimes.

“Youshouldget itupandrunningasquicklyaspossible. If Iwereyou,I’dworkondesigning that first. Icanhelp ifyouneedme to.When’syourcallwiththemagazine?”

“Intwohours.”

“What are you doing right now?” he asked. “The gallery’s quiet thisafternoon.Wecouldworkon itoveracoupleof sandwiches fromWesandMaggie’s.Youcantakethecallhereifyou’dlike.”

“I’dloveto.”

“Wonderful.I’llcallusinanorder.”

“While you do that, I’m going to step outside andmake another quickcall,” she told him. She felt hope nowwhen she looked toward the future.Thiswasmorenaturalthananyjobshe’deverdone.Assheclosedthegallery

doorbehindher, shedialed thenumberat theadvertisingagencywheresheworkedandgavehernotice.Don’tbeafraid.Justjumpin.

TWENTY-EIGHT

Ben’s jeep was still gone when Hallie pulled into the drive at StarlightCottagethatevening.Afterthecall,she’dgonetoGavin’shouseandspentallafternoonthere,planningandcreatingherbusiness.

WonderingwhereBenwas, sincehewasn’twithAshley, shepulledherphoneouttotexthim,butthenthoughtbetterofitandslippeditbackintoherpocket.Halliewentintofindherfamilyandtellthemallaboutherday.

SydneywasplayingcheckerswithRobbyonthelivingroomfloorwhenHalliecame in.Mamawas in thechairby thewindowreadingabook,andUncleHankhaddozedoffonthesofa.HestirredandsatupwhenHalliewentovertoSydney.

“How’ditgo?”hersisterasked,movingacheckerpiece.Robbyjumpedoverit,takinghercheckerandgiggling.“Yougotme,”shesaidtohim,andthenturnedherattentionbacktoHallie.

“IgotRidleyonboard,andthecallwassuperfastbutreallypositive.TheeditorwantstodoapieceonmefortheDecemberissueofSouthernRush.”

“That’swonderful!” Mama said from her chair, her finger holding herplaceinthebook.“OhHallie,I’msoexcitedforyou.”

“Mama,mayIgooutsideandswing?”Robbyasked.

“Ofcourseyoucan.I’llbeoutinbit.”

“You’ve far exceeded your task of becoming a photographer. You’rebuildinganempireinstead,”UncleHanksaidasRobbylefttheroom.“AuntClarawouldn’tbelieveit.”

SydneyrepositionedherselfnearthewindowsoshecouldwatchRobby.Heranacrosstheyard, towardthetireswingBenhadhungforhim,a littleshadowagainstthewaningsunlightofevening.

“I’dliketorentoutasmallshowroomandjumprightin,butI’llhavetowait,”Halliesaid.“Ineedtobuildupsomefundstoinvest.AndofcourseIneed to complete the list to find outwhat elseAunt Clara has inmind forme…”SheofferedUncleHankaquestioninglook,buthejustshrugged.

“What’s leftonyour list?”Sydneyasked,pickingup thecheckersgameandputtingitbackintothebox.

“Abunchofthingsthat’ll takeyearstoaccomplish,”Halliesaid.“UncleHank, the letter’s right there in thesafe.Can’t I justhave it? Idid themostimportantone.”

UncleHankgaveasympatheticpout.“Ican’tdothat.IfClarawantedyoutodothosethings,asunconventionalastheyseem,Ihavetotrustthatshehadsomereasoningbehindit.”

“But come on,” Hallie said, frustrated. “Have a wish come true? Livesomewhereelse?Kissaboy…”Asurgeofsomethingshe’dneverquitefeltbeforeslidthroughherveinswhensheutteredthoselastwords.Shetriedtolabelit:fear.Likesomethingwaswrongbutshecouldn’tunderstandwhat.“Ikissed Jeff—that should count,” she said, ignoring the feeling. After AuntClarapassed,IwasstillwithJeffandIkissedhim.”

“Butyoudidn’thaveClara’sletteryet,soIdon’tthinkthatwillwork,I’mafraid,”UncleHanksaid.“Ifyou’dstillbeenwithJeffandkissedhimaftergettingtheletter,itmightcount.”

“IkissedBen,”sheblurted.“Intheguesthouse.”

Herwords cameout hurried andquiet, distressed.Shewasdesperate toget themout, tounload them, to read the facesofher lovedoneswhenshetoldthem,inthehopesthattheirreactionswoulddilutethefearthatwasstillwithher.Butastheyallstaredatherwithwideeyes,shefinallyplacedwhatthe fearwas. Itwas the dread that shewould go through life and never betrulyhappy,becauseBenwas theonlypersonwhocoulddo that forher. If

onlyshecouldbeeverythingtoBenthathewantedfromhisfuturetoo.

“Andwhathappenedafter?”Sydneyaskedslowly,asifthequestionhadcomeoutwhileshewasstilldigestingHallie’soriginaldeclaration.Benmustnothavetoldhersisterthatpart,andHalliehadn’t letMamainonherlittlesecretduringtheirtalkeither.

“Itoldhimaboutmydiagnosis,”shesaid.

UncleHankleanedforward.“Diagnosis?”

Hallie filledUncleHank in, but thewhole time shewas thinking aboutBen, wondering where he was, why he hadn’t returned yet, how he wasfeeling,ifhewasallright…

“MyGod,”UncleHanksaid.Helookedupattheceilingasifheneededhelp from Aunt Clara. But then his focus returned to Hallie. “She nevershared this with anyone, but the reason Aunt Clara and I don’t have anychildrenisbecauseshewasplaguedwiththesamething.”

WhilehersimilaritiestoAuntClarahadalwaysbeenapparent,theywerenowuncanny.NearlyeveryaspectofHallie’slifemirroredherfavoriteaunt’s.Theresemblancewasstunning,andHalliecouldn’tspeakforafewseconds.Instead,shepleadedwithAuntClarainsideherheadtoguideherfromhere.SheneededAuntClara’swordsofwisdommorethanever.

“WhatwasBen’sreaction?”UncleHankasked.

“Hewantstotakeitdaybyday,butItoldhimthatIdidn’tthinkIcoulddo that.”Emotion rose in her throat. “He’s a familyman.He needs kids—littleboyswithhishumorandkindsmile,oragirlwiththesamesparkleinhereyes—andIcan’tgivethattohim.”Shewipedarunawaytear.AndthenshelookedatUncleHankandsawhimthroughneweyes.Hewaseverybitafamilyman,justlikeBen—theyweresomuchalike,whichwaswhythey’dalwaysgottenalongsowell.HowhadAuntClaramanaged?

Butbefore shecouldponderherquestion, the frontdoor flewopenandBenrushedin,ignoringthemall,alaserfocusonHallie.Hecameovertoherandgrabbedherhands.“Comewithme,”hesaid,pullingherup.Robbyranthrough thedoor to seewhatwasgoingon,andBengavehima smirkand

kissedthetopofhishead.“I’llbeback,bud.I’vegot todosomethingwithHallie.”

Sydney called Robby over to her, everyone in the room watching Benwithinterest.

Ben tookHallieby thehandandnearly ranout into theyard,down thepath,overthewalkwaythatledtothebeach,herbarefeetmovingasquicklyaspossible,until theyreachedthesand.Halliegasped.Theentireshorewasfulloffireflies,justthewaysherememberedit.She’dwaitedthiswholetripto see them and only now had she gotten her chance. She watched thebobbing lights, like a downpour of diamonds floating above the sand. Benstood behind her and put his arms around her as if nothing had happenedbetweenthem,anditfeltlikenoneofithadbeenreal.Andforrightnow,shewantedtopretendithadn’t.

Itwasasifhewantedtotakehistimeafterthatrushtogetheroutthere.Theyhadn’tmovedforquiteawhile,andherpatteringhearthadslowedtoamoreregularbeat.Andthen,heleanedforward.“Followme,”hewhisperedtenderly into her ear, giving her a shiver despite the heat. Shewalkedwithhim over to a blanket and a little pile of three gifts.Gifts? They were allwrappedinsolidpalebluepaper,withsilverandwhiteribbonstrailingfromthebowsontopofeachone.

Benkneeledandloweredherbyherhandsontotheblanket, thefirefliesdancinginthedistance.Halliesatdownandstretchedherlegsoutinfrontofher.“Whatisthis?”sheasked.

Thataffectioninhiseyeshadreturnedinfullforce.“WhatdidIpromiseyouwhenwewerekids?”heasked.

Halliewashavingtroublecomingupwithananswer,herheadsofullofquestions.

“Isaidthatwewouldn’thavetheproblemsthatotherpeoplehavebecausewhenyou’reupset,I’llalwaysmakeyoufeelbetter.”Hegrabbedoneoftheboxesandhelditouttoher.“Openit.”

Hallie untied the ribbon and ripped the paper off, revealing a white

rectangularboxthatfitinherhand.Shetookoffthelidandpeeredinside.“Akey?”Itwasunmarked,completelyaverage.

Ben grinned and handed her the second box, a little larger than before.“OpenthisoneandthenI’llexplain.”

She tore at the paper and ribbon, eager to find outwhatwas going on.When she removed the lid, she found a folded stack of papers. Confused,Hallie took themout and straightened them.Herhandsbegan to shake, buthermindhadn’tcaughtupwithhersubconscious.“Life’sPromiseAdoptionAgency?”

Ben, still kneeling in front of her, took her hands, those blue eyesswallowingherliketheyalwayshad.“Atthebeginningofthistrip,youmadea wish, and I don’t even think you knew it. We were standing in yourmother’s driveway, the car packed for Firefly Beach. You might notremember,butIdo,becauseitwasmywishtoo.Yousaid,‘Iwishwecouldspendtimetogetherwithnothinghangingoverus.’”Heletgoofoneofherhandsandgrabbedthekeyfromitsbox.“ItoldyouthatwhenIthoughtyouloved someoneelse, I could livewith that, knowingyouwerehappy.But Idon’t think you’re happy like this, and it’s killingme.Because I canmakeyouhappyifyou’llletme.”Heheldupthekey.“Thisismyhousekey.Iwantyoutomoveinwithme.”

Sheopenedhermouthtosaysomethingbuthestoppedherwithalovinglook,andsheknewthatsheneededtolethimgetallofthisoutfirst.

“And ifyouwanta family,wecanstillmakeourown.Things likehaircolorandheightdon’tmakeachildyours.It’stheloveyousharewiththemthatmatters.Our family is out there.There’s a baby on itsway to us rightnow, waiting for his parents. Or her parents.” Ben’s eyes glistened withemotion.“Wecan’tletthemdown.”

Halliecouldhardlymanagetheemotionshewasfeeling,butshecouldn’tsayanythingyet.ItwasclearthatBenhadmoretotellher.

“Yourlistisnowcomplete,Hallie.Butthere’ssomethingstillonmylist.”

Benpulledher up to a standingposition andgaveher the last gift. She

couldbarelyseethroughhertearstounwrapit, thepaperandribbonfallinglike feathersonto the sand. Inher shakyhand, sheheld a small boxwith asinglehingeononeside.Sheliftedthelidandinonemoment,allherfearsmelted away. Nestled in white satin was the most amazing emerald-cutsolitairediamondshe’deverseen inreal life.WhenhereyesfoundBen,hewasonhiskneeinfrontofher.

“Marry me. Grow old with me. I can’t guarantee that everything willalwaysbeperfect,butwhatIcanpromiseyouis thatwheneverwefacethehardstuff,Iwillalwaysdoeverythinginmypowertomakeyoufeelbetter.”

Halliecouldn’tstop the tearsfromfalling.Ben’s loveandthe lengths towhichhewouldgoforherwereoverwhelming.Shecouldn’tgettheanswertomove from her throat to her lips. “Yes,” she said, a tidalwave of reliefengulfingher,knowingwithoutadoubtthateverythingwasgoingtobeokayaslongassheandBendidittogether.

Benstoodup,tooktheringfromthebox,andsliditontoherfinger.Thenheputhishandsonherface,andinthemidstofastormoffirefliesagainstthelavendersky,hekissedher.

TWENTY-NINE

“You’re gonnabemyuncle?”Robby said, throwinghis arms aroundBen’sneckastheyallsatatthekitchentable.

“Yep.”BenlaughedandthengaveHalliealook.Thistimeshecouldreadevery single thought in those eyes of his, and they all pointed toward theirfuture.

“Istillcan’tbelieveit.I’msohappy,”Mamasaid,dabbinghereyeswithawadded up tissue. She’d been crying tears of joy sinceHallie andBen hadcome in to tell them all everything. They’d asked them to gather in thekitchen,andbefore they’dannouncedtheirnews,Halliehadcalled to inviteLewisover.He’dcome rightaway.Then, shepulledAuntClara’schairoutfromthetablejustenoughtogiveherroomincaseshewastherewiththem.Hallielikedtothinkshewas.

UncleHankwalkedinandhandedHallietheenvelopefromthesafe,thentook his seat. Hallie drew it to her slowly, her name scrawled across theoutside with the message “Open once you’ve finished what’s in your firstletter”inparenthesis.

“WillyouallstaywithmewhileIreadittoyou?”Hallieasked.

Noonemovedamuscle.Theywereallthereforher.Benputhishandonhersandkissedhercheek,nuzzlingovertoherearforasecond,makinghersmile.Notwanting towait aminutemore,Hallie rippedopen theenvelopeandpulledfromitthepinklacypaperthatmatchedthefirstletter.

DearHallie,

If you’re reading this, then you’ve finished the list.Congratulations!Butdoknow the listwasn’t important.Whatmeantsomething tomewas the knowledge that youweremoving forward,changingupyour life. Iwatchedyousinking into themonotonyofanine-to-fivejob,settlingforthefirstmanwhoofferedyousecurity,andI saw you losing your purpose, yourGod-given talent; itwas beingchippedawaywitheverypunchofyourworkclock.Idon’tknowifyougotmarried,butifyoudid,Iprayitwasforlove.Ipraythatyouknowthe kind of heart-stopping, intoxicating, mind-altering love that Ifoundwithyouruncle.

Hallie, youare strong.Youare capableof everything yourheartdesires.Youdeservetohaveitall…

Hallie started to read the rest of Aunt Clara’s message but then shestopped,hereyesscanningthenextsentence,andlookedateveryonearoundthetable.

“Whatdoesitsay?”Sydneyasked.

Herinheritancewouldnotbelikeeveryoneelse’s.Shereadtheremainderaloud.

I’mnot leavingyoumoney.Instead, I’mgivingyouanother task. I’dlike you to call the phone number at the bottom of this letter andintroduceyourself.Whatyoudowithyourlifeisentirelyyourchoice,Hallie. I hope that I’ve done my part in helping you realize whatyou’recapableof.Ican’twaittohearallaboutitwhenwemeetagainontheotherside.I’llbewaiting.

Allmylove,

AuntClara

“UncleHank,doyouknowthisnumber?”

UncleHank squinteddownatAuntClara’swriting and shookhis head.“Noidea.”Lewisleanedoverandthenshookhishead,baffled.

“Callit!”Sydneyurgedher,excited.

Ben encouraged herwith a nod, so she pulled out her phone, andwitheveryonearoundherforsupport,shetappedoutthenumbersandhitthecallbutton.Thensheputitonspeakerandsetthephoneinthemiddleofthetable,herhandstrembling.

Thephonepulsed,everyonewaitingonpinsandneedlestofindoutwhatAuntClarawasuptointhefinalrequestofherlife.EverythingaboutHallie’sinheritancehadbeenunique, and thiswasno exception.For an instant, shethought about how Aunt Clara’s money would have helped her get herbusinessupandrunning,andhowhersavingsweren’tbigenoughtosupportthe grand plans in her head, but with every ring, she trusted Aunt Clara’sjudgment,nowmorethanever.

“Hello?”awoman’svoicesaidfromtheotherendoftheline.

“Hello.ThisisHallieFlynn.”Halliedidn’tknowwhatelsetosay,butshedidn’thavetosayanythingmorebecausethewomanclappedandlaughedontheotherside.

“I’mdelighted tohearfromyou,Hallie. I’massumingyou’vereadyoursecondletterthen?”

“Yes.”Hallie’scuriositywaskillingher.ShesqueezedBen’shandandheaffectionately rubbed herswith his thumb, calming her racing heart. “WithwhomamIspeaking?”sheasked.

“This is SashaMorgan, your aunt’s business partner.We’vemet a fewtimeswhenyouwerevisiting,remember?”

“Oh,yes.Ido.It’snicetotalktoyou.”

“Nicetotalktoyoutoo.Yousee,youraunthassomethingshewantsmetogiveyou.”

“Oh?”Hallielookedaroundthetableatthehappyfacesofherfamily.

“Itseemsthatyou’renowtheproudowneroffiftypercentofMorganandFlynn Design. And since I’m nearing retirement, if you’re interested inmaintaining the company, once you have enough capital I’d be willing to

offerafullbuy-out.Thecompanywillbeentirelyyoursonedayifyouwantit, and you havemy blessing to run it yourway—Clara said you’d almostcertainly have some ideas of your own. Is that something you’re interestedin?”

Hallieclappedherhandoverhermouth,tearssurfacingyetagain.Hallieowned half of the business. That was half of every showroom across theworld, all their eighteen officesworldwide, theMorgan and Flynn brandedlines, half of Aunt Clara’s multimillion-dollar company. It was hers. Shewould have a team of people supporting every idea she had. She couldemploymultiplecompaniestoproduceherdesigns.MorganandFlynnhadaclientlistasbigasaphonebook…

“Hallie?”Sashasaidthroughthephone,hervoiceamused.“Clarasaiditwouldprobablybeashocktoyou.Whatdoyouthink?”

“Icouldn’tbemorethrilled,”shesaid,asshetookintheadoringfacesofallherlovedonestogether.AuntClarahadhelpedHallietoseehowheraunthadviewedherownlife,howvividandfullofpossibilityitcouldbe.Halliehad absolutely no idea what the future would hold for her, and she didn’tmindabit.Asshesatamongherfamily,shecouldhearAuntClara’swords:Yourlifeisablankslate.Dreamitupjustthewayyouwantit,andthengogetit.

Halliecouldn’twaittodojustthat.

EPILOGUE

“Ben!”Halliecalled, rushing into theirhouse,droppingherhandbagon thefloor and nearly knocking into him, her copy of Southern Rush wedgedbetweentheirbodies.

Ben chuckled at her excitement and held Hallie steady, before leaningdownandkissingherlips.“Whatdoyouhave?”heasked,buthisdotingeyesdidn’tleavehersuntilshepulledback.

“Thearticleispublished,”shesaid,wavingtheissueofSouthernRushinfrontofhimbeforetakingofftowardthelivingroom.Benchasedher,makinghergiggleashescoopedherupandtheycollapsedontothesofa.SheandBenhadbeenwaitingtoreaditformonthssinceherphoneinterview.HalliehadaskedBentocheckthenewsstandseverydaythisweek,andshe’ddonethesame.

She’dusedtheSouthernRusharticletobreakthenewsofhertransitiontoMorganandFlynn,andtounveilherplansformovingthecompanyforward.With an entire staff of creatives, she’d found her first board meetingincrediblyinspiring,andshewasblownawaybythepossibilities.Sashalovedherideasandwasopentoallowinghertomoveinthedirectionthatshefeltwasright.

Ben tossed the magazine on the floor and took her hands, kissing herneck.“Isitgood?”heasked.

“Yes!”Shesquirmedtogetfree,buthislipsfoundhers.

“We’llreaditlater,”hesaid,hishandsmovingalongherwaist.

Shewrappedherarmsaroundhim,asBensimultaneouslykissedherandshooedacuriousBeauovertohispillowinthecorner.

Hallie tippedherheadback.“Yousureyoudon’twant to read itnow?”sheasked.“It’sreallygreat.”

“Hmm…”Bensaid,deliberating.Thenhestartednibblingatherneck.“Icanthinkofsomethinggreaterthanthatarticle.”

Hallielaughedandtwistedoutofhisgrasp.

Bensatupwithalightheartedhuff.“No,really,”hesaid.“Idohavesomeamazingnewsthatdefinitelyrequirescelebration.”

“Whatisit?”

Shepickedupthemagazineandtosseditontothecoffeetable,ontopofapile of bridal books she’d been perusing over the last few months. OnceGavin had finished the trim, Hallie had reassembled the staff at StarlightCottageandhiredapaintingcompany to refresh theentire estate, includingthedockandgazebowheresheandBenplannedtosaytheirvows.She’dalsoredesignedMama’sweddingdress,creatingacontemporaryslipofsatinwithbeadingat the edges,whichwouldalsobewoven into thedaintyband thatwouldencircleapileofloosecurlsatthebaseofherneck.

“I’lltellyouwhenwegettoStarlightCottage,”hesaid.

“Atthewedding?”

“Mm-hm.”

“Butthat’smonthsaway!”

“You’llhavetowait.”

“That’snotfair.Youcan’tputsomethinglikethatrightinfrontofmeandthennottellme.I’mgoingtohavetoconvinceyou…”shesaid,pressingherlipstohisandpushinghimbackdownontothesofa.Shehoveredoverhim,grinning,holdinghiswristsasifshecouldkeephimfromgettingloose.

“I’m proof that waiting is possible. You made me wait a ridiculousamountoftime…”Hebrokeoutofherhold,rolledarounduntilhe’dpinnedher down, and tickled her,making her shriekwith laughter,writhing under

himandpawingathishandstostop.

Whenhe’d slowed,Benplanteda tinykissonher lips. “Don’tbatyoureyelashesatme.YouknowIcan’thandle it. Itmakesmecrazy.”Hekissedheragainandthenpretendedtogobbleherup.

“Beserious,”shesaid,stoppinghim.“Whatisit?”

“Thehomestudyisfinished.We’vebeenclearedforadoption.”

Halliesatupandthrewherhandstohermouthinelation.“Weare?”shesqueaked.

“Yep. I’ve already secured Sylvan Park for the enormous party we’regoingtothrowtocelebrate!”

Hallielaughed,herheartfull.

Benputhishandsonherfaceandlookedintohereyes.“We’regonnabeamazingparents,”hesaid.

Withagrin,sheknewhewasright,andthistime,shelistenedtohim.

InAuntClara’sfinalletter,she’dtoldHalliethatshedeservedtohaveitall. She hadn’t understood themeaning of that little word “all” until she’dfound it.Her entire future had beenwaiting for her in the house at FireflyBeach.Herdestinyhadbeenrightthereallalong;shejusthadtojumpinandgrabit.

“Whatareyouthinkingabout?”Benasked.

“Grabbingmyfuture.”Shetookholdofhishandsandpulledhimtowardherforanotherkiss.

IfyouenjoyedSummeratFireflyBeach,you’lllove

TheSummerHousebyJennyHale—anabsolutelystunning,feel-goodsummerromance,aboutfamilysecrets,re-discoveringwhoyouare,andthe

magicoffindingtruelove.Availablenow!

THESUMMERHOUSE

Agorgeousfeel-goodromancethatwillhaveyouhooked.

Somesummerswillstaywithyouforever…

CallieWeaverandbestfriendOliviaDixonhavefinallydoneit:puttheirlifesavingsintothebeachhousetheyadmiredthroughchildhoodsummers,onthedazzlingwhitesandofNorthCarolina’sOuterBanks.They’regoingtobuffthesaltfromitswindows,paintitssun-bleachedsidings,andopenitasa

bedandbreakfast.

Callie’stoobusytothinkaboutherlovelife,butwhenshecatchestheattentionoflocalheartthrobLukeSullivan,hisblueeyesandeasysmilemakeithardtosayno.He’sheirtohisfather’spropertyempire,andthepaperssayhe’sjustanotherplayboy,butastheylaughintheoceanwaves,

Callierealizesthere’smoretothismanthanmoneyandgoodlooks.

Justwhentruehappinessseemswithinreach,CallieandOliviafindadiaryfullofsecrets…secretsthatstretchacrosstheisland,andhavethepowertoturnlivesupsidedown.AsCalliereads,sheunravelsamysterythatmakes

herheartdropthroughthefloor.

WillCallieandLukebepulledapartbythestormitunleashes,orcantruelovesavethem?

TheSummerHouseisanabsolutelygorgeous,heart-warmingsummer

romance,abouttheimportanceoffamily,notkeepingsecrets,andlearninghowtoopenyourheart.

Getithere!

JENNY’SEMAILSIGNUP

Ifyoucan’twaittoreadmorefromJennyHale,youcansignupheretobethefirsttoknowabouthernewreleases.Wepromisenottoshareyouremailwithanyoneelse,andwe’llonlycontactyouwhenthere’sanewbookout.

BOOKSBYJENNYHALESummeratFireflyBeach

TheSummerHideaway

TheSummerHouse

SummeratOysterBay

SummerbytheSea

ABarefootSummer

ItStartedWithChristmas

We’llAlwaysHaveChristmas

AllIWantforChristmas

ChristmasWishesandMistletoeKisses

AChristmastoRemember

ComingHomeforChristmas

Availableinaudio

TheSummerHideaway(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

SummeratOysterBay(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

SummerbytheSea(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

ItStartedWithChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

We’llAlwaysHaveChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

ComingHomeforChristmas(UKlisteners|USlisteners)

ALETTERFROMJENNY

ThankyousomuchforreadingSummeratFireflyBeach. Ihopeitgotyoulongingforthoseendlesssummerdays,feelingthewarmsandonyourfeet,andthecoconutsmellofbeachcocktails!

Ifyou’dlikemetodropyouanemailwhenmynextbookisout,youcansignuphere.

Iwon’tshareyouremailwithanyoneelse,andI’llonlyemailyouwhenanewbookisreleased.

IfyoudidenjoySummeratFireflyBeach,I’dloveitifyou’dwriteareview.Gettingfeedbackfromreadersisamazing,anditalsohelpstopersuadeotherreaderstopickuponeofmybooksforthefirsttime.

Ifyouenjoyedthisstory,andwouldlikealittlemoresummertimeonthebeach,docheckoutmyothersummernovels—TheSummerHouse,SummeratOysterBay,TheSummerHideaway,SummerbytheSea,andABarefootSummer.

Untilnexttime!

Jennyx

Findmeon:

Goodreads|www.itsjennyhale.com

SUMMERBYTHESEA

Outnow!

Abeautiful,heart-warmingsummerreadaboutsisters,firstloveandnotalwaysgettingwhatwewant–butsometimesendingupwithexactlywhat

weneed.

Theysaythere’salwaysonesummerthatchangesyou.

ForFaiththeonesummershecan’tforgetiswhenshefellinloveasateenager–onlyforhersister,Casey,tostealherman.Now,attherequestof

herbelovedninety-year-oldGrandmother,Faithhasagreedtoafamilyholiday–attheirchildhoodbeachhouse,whereitallbegan.

Faithhasn’tseenhersisterinyearsbutisfinallyreadytoforgiveandforget,enjoythesunshineandrelivehappymemories.Whatshe’snotreadyforismeetingJakeBuchanan–theownerofthebeachhouse–orthelong-

forgottenfeelingsheignitesinher.

CanFaithovercomethehurtofthepast,rekindletheclosebondshehadwithCaseyandmakethissummerTHEONEtoremember?

Buyithere.

SUMMERATOYSTERBAY

SummeratOysterBayistheperfect,feel-goodsummerromance,abouttheimportanceofhomeandfamily,learningwhatloveis,andlivingforthe

moment.

Theysayfallinginloveiseasy.Butwhatifyouknowit’llbreakyourheart?

ForEmilyTate,returningtohercharmingchildhoodhomeOysterBayislikecomingupforairafterthefastpaceofhercitylife.Atthefarmher

grandfatherbuilt,surroundedbysisterRachel’schatter,Gram’sbuttermilkbiscuits,andthesoft,whitesand,Emilyisremindedofexactlywhosheisand

whatsheholdsmostdear.

WhenEmilystartsworkatelegantWater’sEdgeInn,CharlesPeterson,thehandsomenewowner,asksforherhelp.HewantstoexpandandneedsEmilytoteachhimthelocalways,sohecanconvincetheplanningcommission.Emilyvowstomakehimfallinlovewithherhometown,justthewayitis.

Atwork,Charlesisreservedandserious,yetonceEmilyhashimkickingoffhisshoesinthesandandsailingacrosstheglisteningChesapeakeBay,she

seesanothersidetohim,andtheireasyrapportfeelslikethestartofsomethingbig.

ButwhenitbecomesclearCharles’splansfortheinninvolvebulldozingOysterBay,Emilyisheartbroken.WillsheloseherhomeandCharlesallat

once,orcanshesaveOysterBay,andgivetrueloveachance?

Buyithere!

ABAREFOOTSUMMER

‘You’llloveLibby’sheartwarmingjourneyasherlifechangesinwaysshe’dneverhaveexpected…Awarm,light,brilliantlyromantic

story.’5/5GirlsLovetoRead.com

Getithere!

ABarefootSummerisabeautiful,touchingstoryaboutcominghome,theimportanceoffamily,andthespecialplacethatfirstlovesholdinourhearts.FansofCaroleMatthews,TrishaAshley,SusanMalleryandSusanWiggs–andanyonelookingforaperfect,feel-goodsummerreadwill

enjoythis.

Sometimesyoufindperfectwhereyouleastexpectit.

LibbyPotterhasjustlosttheperfectjob,theperfectapartmentandtheperfectboyfriend.Movingbacktothehometownthatshecouldn’twaittoescapewhenshewasyoungerwasdefinitelynotonherto-dolist.Especially

asitmeansrunningintothemanwhoseheartshebrokewhensheleft.

PeteBennettcanstillmakeLibby’sworldstopwithjustthesoundofhisvoice–eventenyearson.Onlynow,sheisthelastpersonintheworldthathe

wantstosee.

AseveryoneelsewelcomesLibbyhomewithopenarms,sherealizesshe’smissedthatspecialclosenessthatcomesfromlifelongfriendship.And,as

LibbyseekstomakeamendswithPete,shebeginstowonderwhethershemadetherightchoiceinleavingallthoseyearsago.

Whenanamazingcareeropportunitygivesherthechancetoleaveagain,Libbywillhavetodecidewhatherversionofperfectis…andwhereshe

reallybelongs.

Availablenow.

WE’LLALWAYSHAVECHRISTMAS

AnenchantingstoryaboutthemagicofChristmas,theimportanceoffamily,andthejoyoffallinginloveduringthemostromanticseasonoftheyear…

ChristmashasalwaysbeenaspecialtimeforNoelleParker.Wintereveningsspentwithfamilyandfriends,drinkinghotchocolateandeatingcookiesatherfamily’scozybakeryhaveshapedherloveforallthingsfestive.Butthis

yeareverythingischanging…

ThebelovedbakeryisfacingclosureandNoelleneedsamiracletosaveChristmas.

Determinedtoraisefundsforthefamilybusiness,Noellesetsaboutrevampingthebakerywhilejugglingasurprisenewjob,caringfortheelderlyandcantankerousWilliamHarringtoninhisluxurious,sprawlingmansion.

AsNoellemeltsthefrostinessofthehousewithcakebaking,snowballfightsandglitteringdecorations,shehelpsWilliamtoreconnectwitharomancethathasspanneddecadesandunexpectedlyfindsherselffallingforhisgrandson-

thegorgeousbutmysteriousAlexanderHarrington…

InthecountdowntoChristmas,canNoellesavethebakery,reuniteafamilyandcreatesomemagicalmemoriesofherownalongtheway?

UnwrapthefeelingofChristmasinthisbeautifulnovelcelebratingfriendship,familyandlovethatlastsalifetime.We’llAlwaysHave

ChristmasistheperfecttreatforfansofKarenSwan,SusanMalleryandSueMoorcroft.

Buyithere.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Iameternallygrateful tomyhusbandJustin,whohasprovidedunwaveringsupport,weatheredtheupsanddownsofmyjourneybymyside,andallowedmetofollowmyheart.

Tomyfriendsandfamily,Ithankyoufromthebottomofmyheartforallyour positivity and encouragement. Another thank you goes to MeganLiesingerfortheusefulconversationaboutadoption.

I am so appreciative of the creative community here in Nashville, anddelightedthatIwaswelcomedwithopenarms.IamcontinuallyinspiredbythisnewcityIcallhome.

Huge kudos to the folks at Bookouture, the most fantastic publisheraround.AnenormousthankyoutomyeditorNatashaHarding,whokeepsitall running smoothly, even when I throw bumps in her path. To OliverRhodes, I couldn’t do this without him. I am so thankful for his vision,patience,andleadership.

PublishedbyBookouturein2019

AnimprintofStoryfireLtd.

CarmeliteHouse

50VictoriaEmbankment

LondonEC4Y0DZ

www.bookouture.com

Copyright©JennyHale,2019

JennyHalehasassertedherrighttobeidentifiedastheauthorofthiswork.

Allrightsreserved.Nopartofthispublicationmaybereproduced,storedinanyretrievalsystem,ortransmitted,inanyformorbyanymeans,electronic,mechanical,photocopying,recordingorotherwise,

withoutthepriorwrittenpermissionofthepublishers.

eBookISBN:ISBN:978-1-78681-733-4

Thisbookisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,businesses,organizations,placesandeventsotherthanthoseclearlyinthepublicdomain,areeithertheproductoftheauthor’simaginationorareused

fictitiously.Anyresemblancetoactualpersons,livingordead,eventsorlocalesisentirelycoincidental.