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“I know, they’re so good. I’m surprised I haven’t doubled my weight with how many I eat while at work. But back to why you called. When do you plan on coming? Do you want to stay at Dottie’s?”
“Yeah, I was wondering if I could have her number? We also talked at your wedding, and she said she would be happy to have me stay there if I ever came to visit again. She loves how much we all love her cottage.”
“This all happened at my wedding? Wow, I’m glad it was so productive for you.” She laughs. “And, yeah, I’ll give you her number. I watch over it for her, though, so I can tell you that someone is renting it right now. But only until the end of the week, and then there’s no one lined up.”
“Good. I was nervous because it’s the fall, and I know that’s probably peak season.”
“Yeah, it’s leaf peeper season, and we’re almost at peak foliage, so there’s a lot of tourists coming through town.”
“Oh, good, I didn’t miss it. I’d love to see Pine Cove when the leaves are all changed.”
“You’re really moving here, Mely?” she asks, her voice soft.
“Yeah, I am,” I confirm. “I can’t believe it either, trust me.”
“Uh, have you told–”
“No, I haven’t told Ellie.”
“Shit.”
“I know. She’s going to hate me. She’ll be the only one left here.”
“She’ll understand?” Ally questions, sounding doubtful.
“Even you don’t sound sure. But I’ll figure out a good way to tell her.”
“I’m glad you’re doing this, Mel. I know Pine Cove will bring you the fresh start and slow-paced life you’ve been wanting. And especially if you’re staying at Dottie’s. That place alone will bring you a sense of peace unlike anywhere else.”
“That’s what I’m hoping for.”
“So, hurry and call Dottie to make it official. I’ll text you her number when we hang up.”
“Thanks, Ally-cat.”
“I’m so happy, Mel, you have no idea. I miss you like crazy. Next, we’ll have to get Ellie up here.”
“Can you imagine? The four of us together again? I miss it.”
“Me too. Now go make the call!”
“Okay, okay.” I laugh, and we both hang up.
A second later, a text comes in from Ally with Dottie’s number, and I dial it right away.
“Hello?” a small voice answers.
“Dottie? Hi, it’s Melanie. I don’t know if you remember me, but–”
“Of course I do, dearie. How are you?”
“I’m doing alright, thank you. I’m actually calling to see if I could rent your cottage? I just talked to Ally, and she said that after this week it’ll be free.”
“Yes, yes, of course. When were you thinking?”
“I was wondering if I could rent two weeks from now? And then indefinitely?”
“Indefinitely?” she asks, and I can hear the smile in her voice. “Are you moving to Pine Cove, dearie?”
