Gemma: Are you sure you want to continue with it after last night? Is everything sorted with Mari?

Maeve: What are you talking about, woman? Welcome to host at mine if you feel awkward having it at the Nook.

Sally: Best damn book club I’ve ever been to! Love this book suggestion. Read it at uni for a module on Victorian female writers; scandalous . . . though not as scandalous as our book club

Annie: I have absolutely no problem hosting at the Nook. Spoke to Mari. All good. She encouraged us to continue. John Granger can kiss my arse!

Sally: What about plastic John?

Annie: He’s not called John anymore.

Gemma: What’s he called now?

Annie: Mr. Knightley.

Gemma: From Emma?

Annie: Correct.

Maeve: So, you like them grumpy then, hey?

Annie: Not grumpy. Honorable.

Sally: But not too honorable, right?

Annie:

Gemma: Can you describe a dildo as honorable?

Maeve: Can we get back to the book club?

Gemma: It’s a yes from me

Sally: Me too.

Maeve: Then we’re agreed. Good choice, Annie.

—

At half past two, Annie was about to close the kiosk for the day when a shadow fell across the opening, blocking out all of the light. Annie had her back turned, washing up the milk jugs.

“You’re in luck,” she called. “I was just about to close up. But I’ll make an exception.” She turned, smiling to greet her last-minute customer, and came face to face with John Granger. His expression was thunderous.

“I came here to apologize for the way I handled last night, only to find you abusing my aunt’s hospitality again!” he said. His thick Scottish accent was laced with anger, and the depth of his voice seemed to bounce around the small kiosk.

Annie felt her chagrin rise. She would not be cowed by such a disagreeable man. She wiped her hands dry on her apron and squared up to him.

“Firstly,” she began. Her shoulders pulled back and her chin jutted out in indignation. “I have your aunt’s full blessing to open the kiosk whenever I like. Secondly: I have put money in the kitty toward the stock I initially used, and since then, I have paid for all the coffee beans, milks, and sundries myself. And thirdly, I don’t know what impression you are under, but I am not here under your aunt’s hospitality! I am liable for all bills and utilities and am employed to oversee and maintain Saltwater Nook until such time as Mari decides to return.”

John Granger rocked back on his heels, looking contrite. He blew out a breath.