Despite having a cosy feel, the room was open plan. An inglenook sat to the left, around which an inviting floral sofa and a couple of mismatched armchairs had been arranged. A big wooden dining table separated the lounge area from the kitchen. With its stripped pine cupboards, this was also home to a solid fuel range which I guessed was used to heat the house’s cast iron radiators as well as for cooking.
“I knew you’d been busy, but this is incredible,” Leo said, clearly as impressed as me.
“Your dad’s been at it seven days a week since we moved here,” Grace said proudly. “This is all his work, you know.”
“Not quite all, love. I’ve had a bit of help and advice along the way.”
“And we’ve had the support of you know who?” Grace said, her gaze flitting upward.
I waited for her to expand, but no explanation onyou know who’sidentity was forthcoming.
“But still, Dad,” Leo carried on. “You’ve got to be proud of what you’ve achieved. Compared to what it was, this is a whole new house. You’ve worked miracles.”
Bill blushed. “Thank you, son. That means a lot.”
“Let me show you your room,” Grace said. “And once you’ve sorted yourselves out, we can have a proper catch-up.” Leading us through a door by the stairs, we stepped into an inner hall that revealed three more internal doors. “This is the bathroom,” she said, opening one.
The space was decorated in natural tones and textures. The floor, consisting of ornate black-and-white tiles, contrasted perfectly with the space’s soothing sage green panelling and natural wood shelves. I swooned at the claw-foot bath, hoping I got the chance to try it out during our stay.
“There are two bedrooms to choose from, but I thought you’d prefer the one at the front because it has the sea view.” Grace swung open the door for us.
My eyes widened at the sight that met us. “This is lovely.”
“Now, I’ll go put the kettle on,” Grace said. “And maybe make us all a spot of lunch?”
As Grace closed the door behind her, Leo and I took in the small but perfectly formed bedroom. The vast ceiling height didn’t extend to that side of the house, but apart from in the bathroom, the slate flooring had continued throughout. A cast iron double bed sat on a beige rug opposite the window, with simple cross-legged tables serving as bedside cabinets. The bedding was crisp and white, and while plumped-up pillows and cushions mingled at the top end, an ecru throw lay across the bottom. There was an oak wardrobe and chest of drawers, and the room’s window dressing consisted of two simple sheer curtain panels.
“I love this house,” I said to Leo. “I want to move in.”
We both gravitated to the window, where we stood looking out at the Atlantic Ocean.
“Thank you for bringing me here,” I said.
Leo put his arm around my shoulders and gave me a squeeze.
I smiled, and soaking up the view, continued to marvel at the horizon. I took a deep breath and let out a contented sigh. Leo had been right to suggest we take a step back from the wedding and despite only having a couple of days, I was determined to make the most of the peace.
Chapter 30
By the time Leo and I had unpacked and rejoined Grace and Bill, the dining table was laid, and lunch was ready and waiting. “This looks lovely,” I said, taking in the huge salad bowl and board of freshly cut bread.
“Mixed leaves, mozzarella, mint, and prosciutto,” Grace said. “With a bit of peach thrown in for the fun.” She indicated we all sit. “Food for the bodyandthe soul.”
“I can see that,” I replied, as we all took seats. Having felt too sick to eat throughout the journey over, I was more than ready to dive in.
Grace gave Leo an approving look. However, while I felt pleased to have created a good impression, Leo let out a quiet chuckle, leaving me wondering what was so funny.
“Shall we?” Grace said.
Feeling ravenous, I immediately went to pick up my fork, but Grace took hold of my hand before I got to it. To my further surprise, Bill reached out for my other hand and suddenly,everyonewas linked palm to palm. Taking things one step further, Grace bowed her head and as she closed her eyes, mine widened.
“Bless us, O Lord,” Grace suddenly said.
Glancing around, I felt a tad awkward. It seemed that Grace’s earlier comment had less to do withbodyand more to do withsoul.Returning Bill’s smile, I felt myself blush. I could see we were both trying to act like our holding hands within an hour of meeting each other was perfectly normal.
“And these, thy gifts that we are about to receive.”
I’d never been one for religion, let alone to thank the Lord for my food, and suddenly aware that theyou know whowhom Grace had previously mentioned was none other than Jesus, the son of God, I looked to Leo, silently questioning why he hadn’t thought to give me the heads-up.
