Dalton had offered to drive to the assisted-living facility in Elizabeth City and pick up Talley, who was thrilled to be invited to the event. Bella had asked to go, and the two had left here two hours ago.

After Ivy had sold the beach cottage to Dalton, she’d gotten a small apartment on the shore. There was enough money to tide her over, and she’d not been in a rush to commit to anything. But of course, when you weren’t looking for something, it had a way of finding you. She’d been hired to cater a couple of small parties, which had led to catering a store opening and a fundraiser. Word was spreading quickly that she was a top-notch chef, and several opportunities had presented themselves to her.

She’d decided to pass on the New York job and the restaurant space that had once been the tackle shop. But she and Dalton had been dating steadily the last five months. The more time she spent with him, the deeper her feelings grew.

A knock on the door had them both turning to see Bella grinning at them. Dani crossed, unlocked the door, and kissed Bella on the cheek.

“Mom, I have to go check on Rosie,” she said.

Bella and the puppy, a.k.a. Rosie, were nearly inseparable now, according to Dani. “She’s fine, Bella. She’s with Libby and Sailor, and they’re hanging out at our house.”

“But she misses me.”

Dani tucked a stray curl behind Bella’s ear. “I’ll have Uncle Dalton run you back to the house in a little while. It’s important you be here now.”

“For Ruth.”

“She was our best pal.”

Bella nodded. “Can I have a soda?”

“You can have two.”

Ivy moved out to the parking lot and walked to Dalton’s truck as he removed Talley’s wheelchair from the bed. She tossed him a smile, and he winked as she opened the driver’s side door and kissed Talley on the cheek. She wore a navy dress with a matching jacket, pearls around her neck, and hints of rouge brightening her cheeks. Her freshly styled hair curled gently around her face, accentuating bright eyes.

“Ivy,” Talley said. “I thought we’d never make it. Traffic is crazy this time of year.”

“But you made it, and now we can celebrate.”

Dalton pushed the wheelchair around the car, and Ivy helped Talley into it. “Ready to go.”

Ivy leaned toward him and kissed him on the lips. “Thank you.”

“I was glad to do it,” he said. They pushed Talley inside the gallery.