Page 46 of The Seaside Homecoming
Her mother walked away, weaving rather unsteadily through the crowd of shoppers.
Mira tugged her hand. As Claire looked down, a tear fell onto the cheek of the motherless girl.
After dinner that evening, Miss Patel took Mira upstairs for a bath. When they’d gone, Mr. Hammond turned to Claire, looking quite serious, even somber.
“Sonali told me what happened today—the cobbler refusing to make shoes for Mira. Thank you for speaking up for her. It’s maddening you had to, but I appreciate your help.”
“I felt I had to. I can’t remember the last time I was so angry.”
“I understand. Naturally it angers me too, that my child should be treated unfairly. Yet this is not the first time, and it shan’t be the last, unfortunately.”
“How is Mira, do you think?”
“She seems untroubled, thankfully. I talked to her about it and tried to encourage her. I believe people here will eventuallycome to know us and accept us. Until then, Mira is fortunate to have you as her champion.”
“Sonali was upset too.”
He nodded. “She has been poorly treated many times—insulted, refused service. I step in when I can, but she sometimes resents my interference.”
“Probably resented mine as well,” Claire said sheepishly. “I went charging off like some wild-eyed avenger. I hope I did not do more harm than good.”
“I doubt it. Though it is often difficult to know what is best to be done. As much as we’d like to, we can’t change the whole world.”
“Not yet, perhaps,” she said. “But hopefully in time.”
Her duties done for the day, Claire again left the boarding house for an evening stroll. Reaching the esplanade, she descended the slope to the beach. She stood there, watching the restless grey waves, the white caps breaking into frothy surf and advancing, diminishing, and finally lapping the pebbled shore.
What was it about the seaside? It drew her. Refreshed her. Soothed her weary soul. For a moment Claire closed her eyes, breathing deeply of the cool, moist air and listening to the rhythmic roar.
Footsteps crunched over pebbles nearby, interrupting her solitude. Realizing it was a little late to be out on her own, Claire nervously glanced over. With relief and pleasure, she recognized the approaching figure. “Fran!”
“Good evening, Claire. I stopped by Broadbridge’s, and Mary told me you’d gone for a walk.”
Claire nodded. “Mr. Farrant having another pint while he waits for you?”
“He was called out on an urgent repair. But yes, I imagine he will soon reward himself with a pint.” Fran smiled andlooked around the deserted beach, the sun setting to the west over Peak Hill. “You’re out here late in the day.”
“I like it best when the crowds have gone.”
Fran slanted her a knowing look. “And you’re less likely to encounter a relative.”
“There is that as well. I understand Mamma sea-bathes here during the day, and I would rather not thrust my presence upon her more than necessary. She has made it clear she intends to keep her distance.”
Fran gave her arm a sympathetic squeeze.
Claire said, “Thank you again for helping with the menus. Mrs. Ballard was pleased with them, as was Mr. Hammond.”
“My pleasure.”
Claire returned her gaze to the sea and inhaled another long breath of fresh air. “I have not been to Sidmouth in years. Yet I feel as though I have come home.”
“Despite everything?”
“Despite everything.”
After a quiet moment, Fran said, “Give her time, Claire.”
Tears stinging her eyes, Claire nodded.
