Page 52 of A Bright Winter Season

“Pressured? No one’s feeling pressured.” Judd let out a condescending laugh. “These folks are free to do as they choose. The only one being pressured here is me. You’re pressuring me to leave, but I have to remind you, Mrs. Owens, that this is a free event. Since a ticket isn’t required to attend, I can come and go as I please. No one can tell me to leave.”

Vivian’s lips parted. She felt a surge of frustration along with a flutter of helplessness. What Judd was saying was true, and shewasn’t sure how to stop him from trying to ruin the Christmas event.

At that moment, she heard someone clear their throat behind her.

“That may be true, Mr. McCormick,” said Terrence, stepping forward. “But this divisive act that you’re trying to perform goes completely against the spirit of this community.”

Judd rolled his shoulders back a little, looking defensive. “And who are you?”

“I’m Terrence Rawlins, the health inspector.” Terrence smiled politely, but it was clear from his strong stance that he wasn’t going to take any nonsense from Judd. “We’ve met. As a matter of fact, I’ll be stopping by the brewery soon to do my health inspection. Maybe tonight?” His voice had a playful lilt to it, and Vivian hid a smile.

“That won’t be necessary,” Judd growled. “I’m just stopping by to give out free beer vouchers. There’s no harm in that.”

“Yes, there is.” Terrence seemed unaware of the fact that many of the pub’s guests had begun to listen to the interaction between him and Judd. Judd, however, was beginning to look uncomfortable. “You’re intentionally trying to disturb this event. That’s clear to me, based on comments I’ve overheard you making to Vivian before. You’re interested in profit, Mr. McCormick, and you’re trying to turn this party into something that gives you more customers. But you’re missing the whole point of this Christmas event.”

“I am, huh?” Judd’s usual complacent smile was disappearing.

“Yes, and that’s what makes The Lighthouse Grill so different from the place you and your sons run. The Lighthouse Grill is about community. I hope that someday you will understand that spending time with the people around us is worth much more than wealth.”

The room erupted into applause. Vivian wasn’t sure who had started the clapping, but soon everyone who had overheard Terrence’s speech was applauding enthusiastically.

“Hear, hear!” Dean called out, and Noelle nodded in agreement from where she stood beside him.

Terrence turned slightly pink in the tips of his ears, but he smiled. “It’s clear the customers here agree with me. So I think you’ll find, Mr. McCormick, that in keeping with the spirit of Rosewood Beach and the spirit of Christmas, your best option is to head on out those doors and have a pleasant evening somewhere else.”

Judd seemed to realize that he’d lost. He didn’t look bitter or angry, however. There was a thoughtful look in his eyes, as if he’d had a revelation of some kind while listening to Terrence’s words.

“Free beer at the brewery,” he called. “Anytime this week. Merry Christmas!”

Without another word, he left the pub. As soon as the door swung closed behind him, Vivian turned to Terrence gratefully.

“Thank you. I hardly know what to say.”

“You’re most welcome.” Terrence smiled down at her, looking energetic and pleased, as if he’d just slain a miniature dragon.

“You don’t seem to be as much of a curmudgeon as I’d originally thought,” she said, her eyes dancing.

Terrence laughed. “I’m glad to hear that. At my age, health inspectors are always in danger of becoming curmudgeon-y. I need wholesome places like this to revive my faith in humanity.”

Vivian beamed at him over the compliment. “Well, you’ve reinspired my faith in humanity tonight.”

“You’ve got a good group of people here. It was sweet of them to show their support by applauding like that.”

“It was a good speech. Powerfully delivered.”

Terrence looked down into her eyes for a moment. “I hope I’ll be able to be around more to support you, Vivian. Even outside of the safety inspector realm.” His voice was soft and gentle.

To her surprise, she felt a lump rise up in her throat. It had been so long since she’d had someone outside her family offer that kind of support, and it meant a great deal to her. Even more than that, it was clear that Terrence was a great man for that kind of job. He was insightful and levelheaded, while also being brave and kind. She would feel significantly safer knowing that a man like that was looking out for her.

“I would like that,” she said softly, smiling back at him. “I’d like that very much. Thank you, Terrence.”

At that moment, Hazel stepped up to her mother and Terrence, a huge grin on her face.

“Terrence, that was magnificent.” Hazel shook his hand, and then turned to give her mother a bear hug. “Oh, boy, was I relieved to see Judd McCormick walk out of here again. I really hope that’s the last time he tries to keep up a rivalry between us and the brewery.”

“I think it might be,” Vivian said, grinning at Terrence.

“I think you’re right.” Hazel’s eyes sparkled. “Thank you for your speech, Terrence. It was just what we needed to keep our event on track.”

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