Chapter eighteen
After saying theirgoodnights to Declan, Ben and Tammy began their final walk home. ‘Shall we take a quick stroll on the beach Uncle Ben?’
Ben looked out at the sea with a grin. ‘I never turn down the chance to be by the sea, lass. Aye. A walk along the beach would be grand.’
Together they headed for the beach, the gentle sea breeze caressing their skin. At that moment, Tammy felt certain of one thing; here in Seagull Bay was exactly where she was meant to be.
As they strolled, their feet sinking into the soft sand, Tammy couldn’t help but reflect on her journey. ‘You know, Uncle, I’ve realised that Seagull Bay has a way of weaving the past, present, and future together.’
Uncle Ben nodded, his eyes twinkling. ‘Indeed, it does. It’s a place that welcomes newcomers, cherishes memories, and fosters new beginnings. And you, my dear, have become an integral part of its story.’
Tammy leaned her head on his shoulder, feeling content. ‘I’m grateful for everything—for you, for this town—for Declan, and for the chance to create something meaningful.’
Uncle Ben placed an arm around her, his touch reassuring. ‘And remember, you’re never alone. Your parents are always with you, watching over you.’
As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Tammy closed her eyes, feeling the presence of her parents in the gentle breeze. She knew that Seagull Bay had not only given her a tearoom but had also given her a second chance at love, family, and the beauty of life itself.
‘Uncle Ben?’
‘Yes, Tammy?’
‘I want you to know. Although we’ve only really got to know each other these past few weeks...I can’t thank you enough for all your generosity. It’s weird but, I feel as though I’ve known you my whole life...I-I really care for you.’
‘Oh, Tammy. You don’t know how much you’ve made an old man happy. I love you as if you were my own daughter.’ Tears magically appeared from nowhere and trickled down her cheeks. ‘I’ve thanked God every day since your arrival for bringing you into my life. Now I’m praying He keeps me fit and healthy so I can enjoy some quality time with you and maybe even get to see our small gene pool extended.’
Tammy’s giggle pushed past the lump in her throat. ‘Hey, steady on. I’ve only just had my first kiss.’ Ben chuckled.
‘How come you never married Uncle Ben?’
He stopped walking and turned, looking out into the ocean. ‘I found love once when I was young. But I was a fool and let her get away. Since then, the ocean has been the love of my life. But better to live and love and take the chance, than to let the chance of love slip away. A day of love is better than a lifetime without it. You take my word for it. I let my love get away and I’ve regretted it ever since.’ He turned to look at Tammy. ‘Life is short, Tammy. You never know what curveball it will throw your way. So, take some advice from this old sea dog. Enjoy every day as if it were your last. Live and love.’ He smiled warmly and tapped the end of her nose. ‘Now, come on. A warm mug of cocoa is calling my name from a cosy little cottage up on the hill.’
Tammy chuckled and linked arms with her uncle as he led her off the beach. Her heart was full of love and gratitude. She was going to take her uncle’s advice. She looked back over her shoulder and whispered into the night, ‘Thank you, Seagull Bay. Thank you for everything.’
As the stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky, Tammy felt a sense of gratitude wash over her. She had come to Seagull Bay seeking a fresh start, and what she had found was so much more—a community that welcomed her with open arms, true friends who had her back, and a tantalising connection with Declan that had the potential to blossom into something beautiful.
Tammy had a home and a new business; she was no longer alone—she had a family now...and she’d found love. She was excited to see what her future was going to be like in Seagull Bay. Katherine was right. Seagull Bay knew exactly what was right for its residents.
***
THE NEXT MORNING, WHILEher Uncle Ben was out visiting a neighbour, Tammy sat at the kitchen table sipping her tea whilst basking in the warm glow of the morning sun as it filtered in through the window. A smile pulled up the corners of her mouth as she quietly contemplated the tender kiss she’d shared with Declan.
Music outside caught her attention and curiosity pulled her to the front door. Opening it, she was shocked to see Declan leaning against his motorbike, whilst sweetly serenading her on an acoustic guitar. His fingers danced on the strings, producing a melody that filled the air with a sense of longing and love. Tammy’s tummy fluttered and she couldn’t help but smile at the sight of him. He looked smoking hot in his leather jacket and blue jeans, the emotion in his eyes matching every word of his serenade, his voice rich and velvety and as soothing as the morning breeze.
Tammy stepped outside, her heart swelling with affection as Declan sang about reuniting with a long-lost love. His lyrics were filled with emotion, and she could feel every word deep within her soul. She didn’t recognise herself as the same person who’d travelled her on the train not long ago—the woman who was so anti-men As Declan finished the song, he looked at her with a twinkle in his eye.
‘That was beautiful, Declan,’ Tammy said, her voice filled with admiration.
He grinned, his guitar resting against his chest. ‘I’m glad you liked it, Tammy. It just felt...right this morning.’ He took a few steps forward and placed his guitar behind the fence and retrieved two helmets. Offering one to Tammy with a lopsided smile, he suggested, ‘How about a little adventure today? A motorbike ride through the countryside?’
Tammy’s eyes lit up with excitement. ‘I’d love that! I’ve never been on a motorbike before.’
They hopped on Declan’s motorcycle and Declan fired the engine to life. As they began their journey, Tammy was impressed at how skilfully Declan manoeuvred the bike around town before taking it onto the main road. Soon they were winding along leafy country lanes.
Tammy was pleasantly surprised when she heard Declan’s voice in her ear. The helmets had radio intercom installed and Declan pointed out and shared stories about each of the children’s homes and foster placements he had called home since going into care. His voice held a mix of nostalgia and reflection, and Tammy listened with rapt attention, knowing this was important to him.
‘This is where I stayed with an old friend before moving into Katherine’s flat above the shop,’ he said, gesturing to a quaint cottage by the river. ‘We had some great times here, fishing and taking Fernando for long walks as we chewed the fat together.’
Tammy smiled, imagining Declan and his friend creating cherished memories in that peaceful setting with a big fluffy Fernando in the mix of things.
