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I left the library buzzing with inspiration, the town’s hidden past coming alive through the treasures George had shared. My story was taking shape, enriched by the faded pages of history.
***
As I stepped outside into the late afternoon sunlight, I was glad that George had introduced me to Jan. She reminded me a lot of myself at that age - a budding writer full of passion and ideas, but still uncertain of her skills. I saw the samehunger for knowledge in her eyes that I once had. By sharing my experiences, I hoped I could help boost her confidence and encourage her to pursue her dreams.
I thought about the yellowed newspapers George had shown us detailing long-forgotten local scandals and events. The dusty ledgers full of handwritten town records stretching back generations. The intimate glimpses into the past those artifacts provided were fascinating.
My mind was already spinning with ideas of how to weave some of those hidden historical details into my novel. A character based on one of those scandalous figures from a newspaper clipping, perhaps. Or a scene where my protagonist explores the same hidden room.
George had brought the history of Pebble Point to life, too, regaling us with his colorful stories and little-known facts. He had such deep knowledge of this place and its people. Countless tales are still left to uncover, and I couldn’t wait to delve further.
Once, I believed that inspiration could only be found in the vast landscapes of big cities, amidst towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. However, today’s revelations proved otherwise. I now understood that inspiration could unfurl even in a small town, as long as one knew where to seek. Pebble Point held narratives woven into its very soil and stones, and I was determined to unearth them.
Chapter 16
A delicious scent wafted through the air as walked into my little office on Monday morning - rich chocolate and freshly brewed coffee. To my delight, Alexander was there waiting for me, a cake in one hand and a steaming cup of coffee from Pebble’s Brew in the other.
“Good morning, Etta,” he said with a warm smile. “I thought I’d bring you a little treat to start the week off right.”
My heart fluttered at his thoughtfulness. “You didn’t have to do that, but thank you! It smells incredible.” I took the coffee gratefully, letting the aroma soothe my senses. Alexander cut us both a slice of decadent chocolate cake.
We chatted pleasantly for a few minutes about our weekends and plans for the week ahead. I was still floating on a high from our time together at the festival. Alexander had been so charming, reciting that lovely poem...it felt like our relationship was shifting into new, exciting territory.
Our cozy moment was interrupted when Alexander said, “By the way, the Mayor’s office called. Jenkins wants to meet with both of us in an hour.”
“The Mayor?” I asked in surprise. “Did he say what for?”
Alexander shook his head. “No details, just that he needs you specifically to help with a speech of some kind.”
I raised my eyebrows. Public speaking and speech writing were not really my forte. But Alexander gave me an encouraging smile.
“I’m sure you’ll be brilliant. This could be a great opportunity to connect with the town again.”
I inhaled deeply and nodded. “Well, I’m game to try if he needs me.”
He squeezed my hand supportively, causing my heart to somersault. “That’s the spirit. We’ll face it together.”
After finishing our cake, Alexander and I went to the Town Hall. My palms grew sweaty as we walked inside, unsure of what to expect.
Mayor Jenkins greeted us effusively. “Wonderful to see you both! Especially you, Emma, so glad you’ve returned to town!”
I stifled a laugh. The mayor’s inability to remember names was infamous.
“It’s Etta, sir,” I corrected gently.
“Of course, of course!” Mayor Jenkins blustered. He led us to his office, cluttered with stacks of books and papers. Sitting behind his large wooden desk, he laced his fingers together enthusiastically.
“Now, straight to business! As you know, the lighthouse renovations are nearly complete, and we are holding the grand Lighthouse Gala to celebrate. I need a speech for the occasion, and I’d be honored if you could provide your talents, Eliza.”
I felt simultaneously nervous and excited by the challenge. I noticed Alexander giving me an encouraging wink from the corner of my eye.
“I’d be happy to take a first pass at the speech, Mr. Mayor,” I said, hoping I sounded more confident than I felt.
“Wonderful!” Mayor Jenkins exclaimed, clapping his hands together. “I’ll need something by the end of the week. I know you won’t let me down, Edna.”
I suppressed another smile. “Of course, sir. I’ll start working on it right away.”
Alexander and I said our goodbyes and left the Town Hall. As we returned to the office, he put a reassuring hand on my back.
