Page 84 of Patio Lanterns

“But I’d add that this community has played a role, too. And, like the patio lanterns that Mom loved so much, this community is a string of cherished friends who have become like family, each with their own unique set of colourful stories.”

Robin glanced at Aidan. He lowered his eyes.

“I was recently reminded that some things can’t be bought, and there are some things you can’t ever put a price on. Not even for eighteen and a half percent over current market value,” she said, suddenly feeling emboldened. “If you believe that Lake Whippoorwill’s history, its memories, and its stories are worth preserving, I hope you will remember that too.”

There was a low rumble of murmuring. Robin decided to quickly wrap up.

“Thank you once again for coming, for these beautiful lights, and for the food you have prepared. To know Micki Pelletier was to love her, and we hope you know how much Micki loved you and loved being part of this community. By being here, you honour her, and by continuing to share your stories, her spirit lives on.” Robin’s voice quivered with emotion. “I’m pretty sure Mom would especially love knowing that, unlike Dad’s handmade canoe, her memory will be unsinkable.”

Everyone in the crowd clapped and cheered. Lark, Dove, and Robin embraced one another in a group hug as the tears flowed freely.

“Incredible job, Rob,” Dove sobbed. “Mom would’ve really loved it.”

Lark wiped her eyes. “How did you manage to come up with that in a few minutes?”

“I didn’t.” Robin smiled. “It was just kind of… off the cuff.”

“Well, I’m not sure how you did it, but you managed to pull it off,” Lark said. “I have never been so happy to have been proven so wrong about anything. You nailed it.”

“Happy to hear it,” Robin said. “And I’ll gladly accept your apology in the form of a cashier’s cheque.”

Lark laughed. “We’ll definitely talk about that inheritance later.”

“Girls,” interrupted Mrs. Stanhope, holding out a tray with three glasses of wine. “To toast your mother.”

They each took a glass, raising them high in the air. Everyone standing in front of them with a can, bottle or a cup in their hands did the same.

Dove led the salute. “To Micki.”

“To Micki,” echoed the crowd, warmly lifting a glass in her memory.

Lark then turned to Robin and Dove. “I think it’s time,” she said, eyeing the urn. They nodded in agreement.

Together, the sisters walked down to the edge of the lake and proceeded to the end of the dock. Each of Micki Pelletier’s daughters took a turn saying their final goodbyes, then gently, lovingly, set her free, and made her a forever part of Lake Whippoorwill.

28

Rick

Music blasted from the speakers in the back of Robin’s van, turning what could have been a sombre occasion into a real party. Several people were already dancing, while others loaded up plates of food and visited with each other, many of them raving about Robin’s speech.

Rick immediately wanted to go over and congratulate her on the amazing job she’d done, but decided to bide his time until the crowd surrounding her and her sisters thinned out.

Aidan walked up to him, double-fisting two beers. “Want one?”

“Sure, thanks,” Rick said, accepting one of the bottles. “By the way, I’ve got something for you too.”

“You do?”

“I’ve decided to give you the money you asked for, Aidan. I’ll transfer it to your account in the morning.”

“I take it the partnership agreement met your standards?”

“Everything appears to be there, just like you said it would be,” Rick admitted. “You were right. You do have keen business instincts.”

Aidan took a few gulps, then lowered his bottle. “I wouldn’t be so sure about that, because I’ve decided not to go into business with Polaris North after all.”

“What do you mean? Why not?”

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