Chapter fifteen
The next day was quietlike Tuesday had been, and Tammy was glad. She’d had a wonderful day working alongside Declan, but she needed time apart from him to assess the shift that had occurred between them.
She’d gone about her day with the same enthusiasm, but she was glad when it was time to close for the day. After going about her usual routine of cleaning, baking, cashing up, and stocktaking, Tammy realised how low on a lot of ingredients she was. She needed to get to the farm shop before it closed. After texting Mina, she absentmindedly made notes until she received the arrival alert.
Mina parked just outside the teashop in her little car and Tammy waved a friendly hello at her as she locked up the tearoom. Climbing into the car, she smiled warmly at Mina.
‘Good evening, Tammy. I don’t normally work in the evenings. As soon as the kids finish school, there’s normally chaos in my household with homework, cooking tea, and bath time. My husband has been working from home for a few days though, so when I saw your text I thought I’d better take this fare, especially as I put my foot in my mouth and offended you last time I saw you.’
Tammy wondered how Mina was able to relay so much information without taking a breath. She shook her head. ‘No, you didn’t offend me and thank you for accepting my fare. I really should think about getting a car, but it’s been the last thing on my mind these past couple of weeks.’
‘Well, at least you know I’m just a text away,’ Mina beamed.
‘Exactly. It’s not as if I have to drive to work anymore. A lovely stroll down the hill with a sunrise and sea view and I’m there. It’s only when the stock needs replenishing that I need to use transport.’
‘How is the tearoom doing? I’ve heard rave reviews from the locals by the way. I’ve been meaning to pop in and say hello but I’ve been flat out.’
Tammy felt warmth spread throughout her body on hearing the news. ‘Oh, you don’t know how relieved I am to hear that. Katherine was so well-loved by the community; I didn’t know how the locals felt about me taking over. The holidaymakers appear to be happy enough with my offerings, but it’s the locals’ opinions that matter the most to me.’
‘Well, you can put your mind at ease. Your cakes and pastries are going down a storm.’ Mina glanced her way with a grin. ‘There is something else that is piquing many people’s interests at the moment though, Tammy. And I really shouldn’t tell you, but there’s a bet going around.’
Tammy frowned. ‘Really? A bet? What for?’
‘Who is going to win your heart?’
Tammy’s eyes almost popped out. ‘What? I’m not dating anyone...and I have no intention of dating anyone. I’m not interested in having a relationship. My priority is the tearoom.’
Mina nodded in agreement, her face suddenly earnest as she agreed. ‘I know-I know it is. That’s what I’ve been replying whenever people ask me what my opinion on it is.’
‘Who’s been asking, Mina? Why is everyone so curious about my love life?’
‘Ah, you know how it is with small communities. Everyone seems to know everyone else’s business. Unfortunately, because you are our newest community member, you are flavour of the month.’
Tammy sighed and crossed her arms as she looked out of the passenger door window. Ugh, well I hope I start tasting bitter soon then.’ Mina laughed. Tammy’s head whipped around to look at Mina’s profile. ‘I’ve just realised what you said... You said they are wondering who is going to win my heart. Are there names being thrown around, Mina?’
Mina grimaced, apprehensive about answering. ‘Erm yes...two names.’
‘Well? Come on, don’t leave me hanging.’
Mina licked her lips obviously enjoying the build-up. ‘Pharis and Declan.’
Tammy sighed. ‘Well, you can tell whoever’s placed a bet that it’s money lost because I don’t intend to date anyone.’ Tammy watched Mina’s shoulders drop. ‘You placed a bet, didn’t you?’ Mina shot her a glance and grimaced again as she nodded. ‘Mina!’ Tammy shook her head. Suddenly curious, her eyebrows rose. ‘Who did you bet on?’
Mina licked her lips again, her nerves evident. ‘Pharis.’
Tammy scoffed. ‘Huh. Why?’
‘A little birdie told me you’d been spotted having an intimate picnic on the beach.’
Tammy threw her hands up. ‘My goodness. Is nothing private in Seagull Bay?’
Mina shook her head. ‘Nope.’ She popped the P as she answered.
They continued in silence. Tammy got lost in her thoughts and soon Mina was winding down the country lane leading to the farm shop.
Mina parked her car in the exact same place she’d parked the first time she’d brought Tammy to the farm shop; she immediately began texting on her phone when Tammy’s car door closed. Was Mina texting other locals about what she knew? Keeping them updated on the Tammy love triangle? Or was she just being paranoid? She hoped for the latter.
Tammy was a little apprehensive about seeing Pharis. Had he also heard of the rumours and bets being placed on them? Inhaling deeply for courage, she pushed open the shop door.
