Page 128 of Versions Of Us

“Hello, you two!” Maggie’s voice comes from beside us.

“Maggie!” I squeal. “How was your trip? You have to tell me all about it.”

“It was wonderful,” she says. “We had so many fantastic experiences along the way.”

Steve wanders up behind her. “Maggie got to feed the dolphins up at Finnigan’s Bay. Highlight of the trip.”

“Oh wow!” I exclaim. “I’ve always wanted to do that.”

“Well,” Steve begins. “I’m sure Henley would love to take you there one day.”

I smile up at Henley and then snake my arms around him. “I’m just happy to have him back.”

“So are we,” Maggie says, giving Henley a pat on the arm.

“I can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done with the place,” Steve says.

We all look back into the tavern from our position on the lawn, marvelling at the hand-built furniture, the stunning bay windows and the refurbished French doors. Henley was able to create a modern space, while still managing to keep the tavern’s original features. And he was right. It has served as the perfect wedding venue.

“It was the least I could do after what you’ve both done for me.” Henley outstretches his arms and takes them both in a group hug. “I really appreciate you guys.”

“We’ve always believed in you, Alex,” Maggies says, a tear forming in the corner of her eye.

“Thank you,” Henley replies. “And I guess while I’ve got you here, I should probably tell you the news.” He takes a deep breath and I squeeze his hand, urging him to continue. “I’m going to start my own handyman business. Building repairs and renovations, maybe even custom-built furniture.”

“That’s great news!” Steve exclaims.

“Obviously, I’ll keep working at the tavern as long as you need me,” Henley interjects. “There’s still a lot for me to finalise before I can make it happen.”

“Well, if you need any help with start-up costs, you just let me know.” Steve reaches for Henley’s hand, giving it a solid shake.

“Steve, I couldn’t possibly accept anything else from you. You guys have already done so much.”

“Nonsense. Call it a repayment for the work you’ve put into this place,” Maggie offers.

“You guys are amazing,” Henley says, his face splitting with a wide grin.

I love seeing him so happy, so excited about his future.

“Guys, quick!” Liv’s voice rings out from the dancefloor. “I’m about to do the bridal bouquet toss!”

“I guess that’s my cue,” I say. I give Henley a peck on the cheek and turn to the bonfire on the beach. “Mackenzie! Let’s go!”

I watch as Mackenzie bickers about something with Dylan, a scowl overtaking her features, before storming off in my direction.

“Are you okay?” I ask her when she reaches the dance floor.

“Yeah. Fine,” she grumbles.

“What was all that about then?”

She doesn’t have time to answer my question though. Because Liv’s bridal bouquet is suddenly flying through the air, and she’s directly in the line of fire. She splutters as it hits her head-on in the face, clutching at its petals with all the grace of a cat in a fishing net.

“What the hell!” she cries out, dropping the bunch of flowers faster than a hot potato. “Eww! I don’t want it!”

I can’t help but crack up, glancing over my shoulder at Henley who is now doubled over in a fit of laughter. I see Dylan snicker behind him. I’m not sure I want to know why.

But then something else grabs my attention. Katie is here, and she’s speaking inconspicuously in Alex’s ear. I watch as she drops something discreetly into the palm of his hand and then strolls back up to the street.

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