A Christmas Wish on Arran (Scottish Romances #4)

Epilogue

Four months later

It was a mild spring evening and a small group had gathered in the Wee Trove. Beth took a deep breath as she clapped her hands together, looking at the smiling faces in front of her. Everybody there was connected in some way, and they were all here tonight for the same reason. Jim and Freya were here, with Murray and Rory. Daisy was standing beside her gran and Maisie, their neighbour. And Cano from Cèic, as well as Grant and Fergus from the outdoor centre had come along to offer their support, along with their partners, Thea and Amelia. Kirsty and Steve had also come along for the night, as well as Edie. The door opened, and there was a gentle ring from the bell above, and she saw Laura, the postwoman, slip in with an apologetic smile on her face. In fact, almost everyone that Beth knew on the island had come along here tonight, which was a lovely feeling. She glanced at her dad, who was sat in a chair in the corner, smiling at her. Margaret stood behind him, a protective hand resting on his shoulder.

She cleared her throat. ‘Hi everyone. I just want to thank you all for coming tonight to celebrate the launch of Callum’s new venture, Isla & Co. As you all know, he is a very talented man for more reasons than one.’ There was a smattering of laughter as she raised an eyebrow, glancing over at Callum, who stood against the wall watching her. ‘You will all be thrilled to know that he has taken up his woodwork again, and thank you Thea for being one of his official suppliers. And letting us hold this party here.’

Thea beamed at her, and Beth suppressed a chuckle as she saw Daisy give her a knowing smile. Callum was so unassuming about his talent that it had taken a huge effort to persuade him to have this celebratory launch event. He didn’t see it as a big deal. However, unbeknown to him, Beth had an ulterior motive. She had a special announcement to make and wanted to gather their friends close, so she could share the good news with them all. Daisy had been instrumental in making sure tonight happened.

‘Callum, would you like to say a few words?’ she asked.

Callum pulled a face and came to stand beside her. ‘Not really, but I will.’ He laughed. ‘I would just like to thank you all for coming along tonight. I appreciate all you’ve done for me and Daisy over the years and . . . I just wanted to say how lucky I feel to be doing what I love.’

‘Hear, hear!’ called Edie.

Beth watched as his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Callum had been wondering for some time about holding some basic woodwork and joinery workshops at the community centre. With Beth’s encouragement he decided to take the plunge, and had been amazed by the response. The school had approached him about holding some basic DIY sessions for the pupils, and he had told Beth in delight how much he loved teaching. The joinery was still ticking over, but diversifying had stimulated his mind and made him love his job again. Especially when he could lose himself in his combined love of creativity and wood.

‘I think that’s all I have to say.’ He looked over at Beth.

‘Well, we’re not quite finished yet . . . I have one last thing to add.’

She could see Callum looking at her questioningly.

‘I am so pleased to tell you that your work,’ she pointed to the display of wooden bowls and cheeseboards, ‘has been shortlisted in the National Creative Wood Awards.’

He looked completely astonished.

Beth shrugged apologetically. ‘Jim and I decided to enter you.’

There were lots of cheers and applause. ‘Congratulations Callum.’ She reached over to kiss him. ‘And watch this space.’

‘We’ll need a photo and a few words for the paper,’ shouted Jim. ‘It’s our exclusive after all.’

Callum laughed.

‘Please do join us now for a wee toast.’ Beth reached for a glass of fizz and passed one to Callum. Fortunately, Thea had enlisted the help of some of her shop assistants, who had passed glasses of bubbly and juice to the rest of the guests.

‘To Callum.’ She raised a glass.

‘Go Callum,’ called Fergus.

She watched as he wiped a tear away. ‘Thanks. I’m lost for words.’

‘That would be a first,’ muttered Grant with a laugh.

‘Cheers.’ Beth clinked her glass against Callum’s — he looked back at her with an intensity that threatened to overwhelm. As everyone started to mingle and chat, he bent down and whispered in her ear. ‘I can’t believe you did this for me. I think I love you, Beth Ferguson.’

Beth’s heart swooped with joy. She knew she loved him. In fact, she realised that she always had. Circumstances might have kept them apart all these years, but it was serendipity that had brought them back together again. They were meant to be together. Beth was so glad that she’d taken a chance and stepped into this different life and new beginning on Arran. This was where she belonged.

THE END