“I just wanted to start over somewhere new, and yes, away from him.”
“Well, I’m happy you chose Harbor Falls, and I’m thrilled you moved next door.” Annie smiled.
“Me too. Listen, I was thinking about something lately, and I’m hoping you’ll say yes. I want to hire you to bake some goodies for the grand opening of the art gallery.”
“Really?” Her face lit up.
“Yes. You are an amazing baker, and everyone in town knows it. What do you say?”
“I’d love to. Thank you for thinking of me. What do you want me to bake?”
“How about you make a list, show it to me, and we can decide.”
“Wonderful idea. I’ll go home right now and work on it.”
As I walked Annie to the door, she turned around and hugged me.
“Thank you. This means a lot.”
“You’re welcome. I’ll talk to you later. Now go make that list!” I grinned.
I knew that keeping busy was the best remedy, and baking for the art gallery would keep Annie busy and hopefully, her mind off not getting pregnant. It was the least I could do for my new friend, who always brought me over baked goods.
CHAPTER12
Adalyn
I spent the next couple of days overseeing the remodel of the gallery. As promised, I talked to my mom and sister daily, and everything was going well for them. I was excited because they were coming to the opening along with Luis and Alfred.
“I wasn’t going to tell you this, but I think you have a right to know,” Hannah said during our phone call.
“What is it?”
“I saw Darren last night at Tavern on the Green, and he was with a woman. They were holding hands at the table. It was nauseating. It took everything I had not to walk over and smack him.”
“Oh. Who was she?”
“I don’t know. She had long, straight black hair and an anorexic-looking body. She wasn’t attractive at all.”
I swallowed the lump that formed in my throat.
“Did he see you?”
“No. I shouldn’t have told you, Addy.”
“Yes, you should have. I’m not surprised he’s already moved on.”
I felt a sharp pain in my heart. Even though I hated him for the lies and everything he’d put me through, it still hurt, and I wasn’t sure if that hurt would ever go away. After I left the gallery in the hands of the workers and ventured down Harbor Street, I ran into Rosie from Rosie’s Bed and Breakfast.
“Adalyn Richards?” A smile crossed her lips as she held out her arms. “You’re back?”
“I am.” I smiled as I hugged her. “I’ve been meaning to come see you, but I’ve been so busy.”
“Busy?” She broke our embrace.
“I moved here to Harbor Falls. I bought a house on the beach, and if you have a moment, I’d love to show you something.” I smiled brightly.
“Of course, dear.” She held out her arm. “Lead the way.”