Page 13 of Harbor Lights

Con turned to Kasia, knowing she could be a little abrupt herself at times. “She needs some understanding. Desmond appears to have tricked her into fixing the old family house, and she seems like she’s had a rough time lately.”

Kasia crossed her arms. “I didn’t like how she blanked Tierney the other day, but I was civil enough when she came in. She wants to use the hotel as a parcel depot.”

“Ah, Kasia, I suggested that. Because she urgently needs equipment, and John the postman won’t know to deliver up there. It’s been abandoned for sixty years.” She felt herself getting upset for poor Shiv. “Please show her some kindness.”

Kasia raised her eyebrows. “She seems to have got under your skin.”

“I got to know her a little the other evening. She’s very private, but decent enough.”

Con picked up her bag. “I’m taking her a welcome package and was going to ask if you wanted to contribute, but I can see that’s unlikely.”

“Hey, wait.” Tierney put a hand on her arm. “Here, take Pegeen a moment.” She handed her over and steered Kasia out of the room.

Con lifted Pegeen high above her head and the little girl giggled. She didn’t have much hair yet, much to Kasia’s concern, but the sparse little curls were as brown as Tierney’s.

Kasia reappeared and Tierney followed, holding a tote bag. “There’s some cheese, a bottle of wine, and a loaf fresh out of the oven.”

Kasia’s bread was a taste experience that made Con a little envious of Shiv. “Thank you.”

“And tell her she’s welcome to come down for a meal on us. Anytime she wants.” Kasia broke into a half smile. “If she wants to socialize, I promise I’ll play nice.”

Con nodded. “I’ll suggest it, but I get the feeling she takes a while to feel comfortable around people. Thanks, both.”

She handed baby Pegeen over and was soon on the dirt track up to the cottage on the cliffs.

“Hullo?” She called in advance, so she didn’t startle Shiv with her presence. “Shiv?”

“What are you doing here?” Shiv appeared from the side of the building, wiping her hands on a rag. Her greeting was accompanied by a scowl that told Con she wasn’t as welcome as she’d hoped.

“Hey, I was visiting patients and thought I’d drop by and see how you were getting on.” She inclined her head toward the toolbelt Shiv was wearing. “Looks like your equipment turned up.”

Shiv’s shoulders lowered a little. Why was she so defensive?

“Yeah, that red-haired cousin dropped it off yesterday. I’ve been able to get plenty done.”

She didn’t make any attempt to invite Con in, and continued to stand, feet planted wide, hands now stuffed in the pockets of her overalls, as if she was defending her territory.

Con flashed a friendly smile. “I’m afraid red-haired doesn’t narrow it down much with the Walshes, but I’m guessing that would be Christy. I’ve brought you a welcome package.” She hefted the larger bag. “And Tierney and Kasia sent some items, too.”

Shiv remained motionless. “Why?”

“Sorry? What do you mean?” A flicker of irritation burned through the confusion. Showing kindness shouldn’t be this hard.

“I can buy my own food; I don’t need charity.”

Patience deserted Con. “Oh, for God’s sake, Siobhán, grow up. You’re new to a small community. It’s absolutely normal for people to welcome you. Stop making this so difficult.” She hoisted the bags again. “Can I just come in and put these down, and I’ll leave you in peace?”

Shiv bowed her head. “Yeah, the door’s open, go on in.” The aggression had left her tone.

Con pushed the door open with her foot, still annoyed. She lifted the bags onto the old wooden table that had been commandeered as a workbench, and looked around.

Shiv pushed the door closed and stood leaning against it, her shoulders hunched. “Sorry.” Her eyes were as wary as they had been when they first met.

Con breathed deeply. “It’s okay. I’m sorry I shouted. Not everything’s about pity, Shiv. Sometimes people just want to be nice.”

She looked around her at the bare stone walls and the scant furniture. “Jeez, you shouldn’t be living in this place.”

“It’s my choice,” Shiv muttered. “It’s exactly why I don’t want folk coming around poking their noses in.”

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