Page 30 of Tides and Tidings

“It’s truly my pleasure. We don’t often get people poppin’ in here, so talkin’ to y’all has just made my day. Weekend, even.”

“Do you not get many visitors? You have a really good spot.” Blythe observed.

That’s one thing about the love of my life—she will, without a doubt, try to help other business owners.

“I’ll get the occasional tourist that comes in, but they’re just lookin’ for souvenirs. They’re not searchin’ for the types of toys I have here. Breaks my heart.”

“I imagine you probably cater more towards locals…” Blythe trailed off, looking around. I could almost see the wheels turning in her head.

“I sure do. My wife and I opened this shop thirty-six years ago. Our kids were grown and out of the house and I enjoyed restoration, so she suggested we open the shop. She was the one who would sit out here and talk to people. I liked to be a recluse in the back while tinkering.” He turned towards Blythe, “You’re a lot like she was. Very driven, wants to help others, beautiful.”

A blush crept up her cheeks at the compliment, “Is she no longer with us?”

“She passed away a few years ago. Took my heart with me when she left.”

Blythe’s eyes softened, “If you don’t mind sharing, what was her name?”

“Dorie.” The owner paused for a moment, “I’m Dominic. She called me Dickie.” He laughed, the pain evident on his face. “I don’t know why. I loved it, though.”

“Well, Dominic, she must be so proud of how you’ve kept this place going. It takes a lot of strength to do that.”

Dickie shrugged, “I don’t think so.”

“What do you mean? The place that held so much meaning for you is quieter now. You’ve had to take on responsibilities you never thought you would. Give yourself some credit.”

Blythe’s words echoed in my ears. The first night we had a heart-to-heart and I shared my backstory with her, she said something similar. She told me that sometimes you have to step up to the plate when you’re not ready. You might strike out, but at least you tried your best.

“I suppose you’re right. Thank you.” A small smile spread across his face. “You kids don’t need to be hangin’ around here any longer. Enjoy the rest of your afternoon and evening and stop by on your way home tomorrow.”

I furrowed my brows, “You’re positive?”

He nodded fervently, “Absolutely. I’ve enjoyed our conversation so much. I’ll see you both tomorrow.”

“Thank you, sir!” Blythe gave Dickie a hug.

I’m not a hugger, so I offered up a hand, “Thank you again. Your kindness will not go unnoticed by our Wren.”

As we exited the toy store and walked towards the water, I slipped my hand into Blythe’s. When our hands were interlocked, we felt like a unit. Like nothing could come between us.

“Where to next?” Blythe asked, looking around.

“I was thinking we could grab some coffee. If we’re planning on going out drinkin’ tonight, I’m going to need some caffeine to make it through.”

“Coffee would be good.” Blythe agreed.

I didn’t sleep well last night. Call it nerves or some shit, but as soon as I hit my pillow, my mind raced. If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard “Don’t stress, it’s going to be fine” over the last few months, I would have been able to buy the ring two or three times over. Whenever I’ve spoken with my mom, she tells me not to stress. When I spoke with Blythe’s best friend, Rose, and asked for her blessing, she even told me not to stress. No matter what I do, the anxiety bubbles up.

Tonight needed to go well. If I ask Blythe to marry me and she says no, where do we go? Does she continue living with us? What do we do about the bookstore? Would she move back to Seattle?

I can’t lose her.

I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t thought about returning the ring and leaving everything as it is. There’s no chance of ruining anything if I don’t ask. I ran this train of thought by my stepdad and he seemed to think I was being a bit of a chicken shit.

“Charlie, do you love Blythe?” Ron asked me last week when I picked up Wren.

“Of course I do. She’s made this life worth livin’.”

“Then marry her as soon as you can. Blythe’s one of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met. Please don’t let her slip through your fingers. We’ve all grown to love her very much. I don’t think anyone more than Wren if I’m honest.”