Page 67 of A Wedding at the Little Bookshop By the Sea

Florrie’s heart squeezed. ‘I love that, especially since your granddad, aka Cupid Harte, played such a big role in us getting together in the first place.’

‘As you can see, I came prepared.’ Ed pulled out two plastic bags from the gift bag. ‘They’re not very stylish, but it’ll mean we don’t get our clothes wet when we sit down.’

‘I see you’ve thought of everything.’ She smiled as they both stretched out the carrier bags on Mr and Mrs H’s seat and quickly sat down before the wind snatched them up and sent them blowing along the prom. Florrie rubbed her arms as goosebumps pinged over her skin, prompting Ed to remove his jacket and drape it over her shoulders.

That done, he produced two small champagne glasses, handing them to Florrie as he shared the contents of a small bottle of fizz between them. ‘We won’t stay here long, it’s chilly and your dress, beautiful as it is, won’t keep the cold at bay, but I thought it’d be nice to toast my grandparents.’

‘Absolutely.’

Ed held his glass aloft and Florrie followed suit. ‘Here’s to you and Grandma, Grandad. I know you can’t be with us in person, but I know you’ll be looking down at us, smiling that mischievous smile of yours, Grandad. I’m sorry our time together wasn’t longer, but I’ll treasure every moment.’ Ed’s voice faltered and he fell silent.

Florrie took his hand, her throat squeezing with emotion as her gaze swept along to Mr and Mrs H’s beloved Thorncliffe. Just then, the sun broke through the clouds and a rainbow appeared, its colours softened by the deliciously warm hues of golden hour. ‘Look! How gorgeous is that?’ she said.

Ed followed her line of sight. ‘Oh, wow! It’s a double one, see?’

‘Lark says double rainbows mean good luck, that they’re a sign of new beginnings and where the spiritual world connects with the physical world,’ said Florrie. ‘Looks like your grandad heard you.’

‘Looks like he did.’ Ed’s face broke out into a smile. ‘One last thing while you’re listening, Grandad, thank you for bringing me to this amazing woman, you really knew what you were doing when you set that ball rolling.’ He caught Florrie’s eye and they exchanged a smile. ‘And here’s to the next generation of Happy Hartes.’ He leant towards her and pressed his lips against hers, all soft and warm. ‘Love you, Florrie Harte.’

‘Love you right back.’

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