Page 67 of Love In Harbor Falls

“What is this?”

“I shall not reveal any information until you try it.” A smirk crossed his lips.

I brought the cup up to my lips and sipped the unknown drink.

“Wow. Wow.” I smiled. “This is so good. What is it?”

“A specialty drink I created myself. I call it the ‘Seaside Runner,’ and I have it as a featured drink at the bar and grille. So far, everyone seems to enjoy it.”

“I can see why. It’s amazing. What’s in it?”

“Sorry, pretty lady, but I cannot divulge that information. It’s a secret recipe,” he whispered in my ear.

“Okay. Here’s to tasty secret recipes.” I grinned as I held my glass up, and he tapped his beer bottle against it.

“So, how are you doing?” he asked.

“I’m doing really good. How are you?”

“I’m doing really good, too. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about the other morning when you stopped by the boat.”

“What about it?”

“I took Olivia to the Emergency Room. She was having some issues and didn’t know who else to call.”

“Katherine told me that day she purchased the painting. How is Olivia feeling?”

“Better.”

“Good. That was really nice of you to take her.”

“She needed help, and she didn’t have anyone else to call. I would have felt bad if something would have happened.”

“I know.” The corners of my mouth curved upward.

“How about your ex? Did he leave town, or is he still hanging around trying to get you to go back with him?”

“He’s gone.” I laughed. “He knows there is no chance I would ever get back with him. I told him to go get some therapy, and maybe he would learn how to be a decent man.”

“Oh, boy.” Colin chuckled. “Good for you. You seem happier, Addy. You really do.”

I looked down at my drink and could feel the heat rise in my cheeks.

“I am. I truly am.” I smiled.

The night was filled with wonderful conversations and food. Katherine really knew how to throw a casual dinner party. Everyone was relaxed and enjoying themselves. It was completely different from the dinner parties Darren and I used to throw and attend for business associates at Darren’s firm. Everyone was all about who made the most money and closed the most deals, and the boring bureaucratic talk was enough to make anyone cringe. This place was home to me. More of a home than New York ever was. But I needed to be careful not to let that slip out in front of my sister or mother.

I was down at the dock, staring at the peacefulness of the water. Night had fallen, and the stars were shining brightly above. A light wind swept across my face just as Colin walked up and stood next to me.

“I prefer the ocean,” he said.

I let out a light laugh. “Me too. But it is sure beautiful here.”

“It is. But I still prefer the ocean.” He grinned. “Did you have a good time tonight?”

“I did. I had a great time.”

“I’m happy to hear that. Listen, we never did go bowling. Would you still like to go?” he asked.

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