Page 37 of Harbor Lights

Marianne laughed. “We’ve all got one. You can join the crew.”

“Are you sure?” Shiv was touched by the kindness of these virtual strangers.

“Of course. Now, do you want to stay for lunch, or were you on your way somewhere, marching so determinedly?”

Shiv had almost forgotten about her lunch date. She checked her watch. “Oh, shit.”

Denny giggled.

“I mean darn, sorry. I’m going to be late for Christy.”

“Ah, Christy won’t mind. Do you want me to drop you up there now?” Joey asked.

“No, thank you. I’ll try out my new coat on the walk.”

She said her goodbyes to Denny and Marianne, and Joey walked her to the door. “Sun’s out again now.” They grinned as she pushed down her hood and stepped out.

“Thanks again for this.” She pulled at her jacket.

After another ten minutes of walking, she reached the red door of Christy’s little bungalow. He swung it open as she approached. “Welcome. And looking so smart in your sea safari coat.”

“It was a gift from Joey and Mari. You’re just jealous.” She slipped it off and kicked off her boots as she entered, moving into a beautifully furnished living room. The walls were white and dominated by a cabinet containing what looked like antique glassware.

The furnishings were color coordinated and very tasteful. “What a beautiful house you have.”

“Come on and I’ll show you around.” He led her into a kitchen kitted out with matching appliances and a simple wooden table set for two. Mouthwatering smells of baking came from the range.

“I’ve made us soup and baked some fresh bread. Let me show you the rest, and then we’ll sit down.” He led her to two perfectly furnished bedrooms, and they peeped out into an immaculate cottage garden, tidy and ready for winter.

“It’s all so beautiful.” She followed him back into the kitchen.

“Are you surprised the rough ferry operator has such an eye for decor?” His blue eyes twinkled.

“Not at all. You must be very proud of it.”

“It’s my pride and joy. I spend a lot of time here. When I’m not working or raving it up in the city.” He grinned. “You should come on one of my trips. It doesn’t hurt to get a bit of nightlife, occasionally.”

Shiv slid into a chair. “That’s never been my thing, if I’m honest. I don’t drink and I’m not keen on crowded places. It’s why I found…” She tailed off, not wanting to turn the conversation to her dubious past.

Christy placed a loaf on a wooden board in front of her. “Help yourself.” He added a bread knife and a butter dish.

Shiv realized she was starving and set about slicing the warm bread while Christy ladled soup into bowls. He sat down. “It’s broccoli from the garden.” He indicated the soup.

Shiv filled her mouth with bread, dripping with butter. “This is soo good,” she mumbled around it.

“It’s just bread.” Christy laughed. “I could teach you to bake it.”

“I’m not big on cooking.” She buttered another slice. “But I’m very willing to try other people’s recipes.” She reluctantly put down the bread and tasted the soup. “Mmm, this is good, too.”

“Jesus, Shiv, it’s like you’ve never had food.”

She thought back to her breakfast protein shake. She opted for meals that could be made quickly and easily with maximum nutrition. She took another bite of the warm fresh crusty bread. But maybe, food could be enjoyable, too.

Once they’d eaten, they chatted, and Christy told her a little about his life. He’d never expected, as a gay man, to settle down with anyone on the island, so he went to the city for companionship. Occasionally, he’d have a fling with a tourist on the island, but they never got to visit his house.

“This is my place to get away from everyone and just be myself. I prefer it like that.”

Shiv smiled. Christy seemed happy in his lifestyle. When he’d washed the plates and returned everything to its rightful place, they sat at the table and drank tea.

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