Winter Magic in Port Berry (Port Berry #3)

Chapter 12

Ginny

It was the next morning, and with the exception of the bathroom episode she’d had at the pit stop on the way over yesterday, Ginny was having the best time in Wales. She wished she had more time to visit places; she wanted a longer break than one night and only just realized how much she needed a change of scenery.

She opened the window and leaned out on the ledge, inhaling the bitterly cold air. It didn’t matter how crisp it was, it was fresh and filled with salt and warmed her heart.

Will was in the bathroom, and it felt so nice to pretend she lived with a man for a while. They seemed to have a lot in common. Both fighting off misery, that was for sure.

A cloud of air blew out of her parted lips as she laughed at the madness of her life. What if she asked Will to do a house swap with her? Could she really up sticks and move to Wales? Anywhere away from her life seemed good, but she knew she wouldn’t take any leaps away from her mum. Birdy needed her. There was no one else who cared.

Ginny watched a man walking his dog along the front, wondering if he had any worries. Oh, why did she have to go and spill her guts to Will about her mother’s form of discipline? She hadn’t told anyone that before. Only her brother knew about her getting locked in the cupboard. He used to bang on the door and laugh. At least Will comforted her.

Wiping the past from her mind, she gazed out to sea, then turned when Will made an appearance.

‘Hey,’ she said. ‘I nipped down to the shop and got some lunch bits.’ She sat on the sofa and sighed. ‘I don’t want to go home yet.’

‘We can come back another time. Make more solid arrangements. Book a hotel or something. Perhaps in the summer. Even invite some of the others. Hire a coach or something. Jed might like to fish here.’

Summer was the busiest season in Port Berry, but she still nodded. Dreams made her smile more than reality, and it was nice to think of having a holiday with friends, or just Will.

Will unwrapped a cheese baguette and opened a small bottle of orange juice. ‘I see it’s started snowing already. Let’s hope it stays light.’

Ginny whipped around to face the window. ‘Where did that come from? It wasn’t there a minute ago.’ She jumped up to take a better look. ‘Ooh, I love the snow.’ The warmth from his body met hers as he leaned over to peek outside.

‘It’s all well and good while you’re indoors.’

Ginny smiled. ‘It’s Christmassy.’

‘Yeah, it’ll be December soon enough.’

She turned, not realizing she’d be so close to his face. Goodness it felt nice. If only they were a happy couple living their best life, she could reach out and toss her arms around him. It wasn’t as though they hadn’t been wrapped around him before.

Will turned back to the food and grabbed a packet of crisps. ‘The men for the beds will be here any minute, then we’ll head off.’

‘If you’re worried about driving in the snow, we could stay here another night.’ Ginny knew it was hope and dreams controlling her words, but still, she wanted to make the most of her time pretending she had a different life.

‘It’s in for the week, apparently, so best get back, else we might be stuck here without heating, as that gets shut off today.’

Trying not to take it personally, as what he was saying made sense, Ginny ate a ham sandwich.

The intercom buzzed, and Will let the collection men in to remove the beds. He went downstairs with them, loading his truck with the boxes.

Ginny went back to the window to have a nosey. She liked watching Will from afar. Quite often she’d remember him without his clothes on, and it always made her smile.

The light snowflakes filled the air, making everything look dreamy and magical. Will blended in perfectly. There was something so enchanting about her one-night stand. For one, he hadn’t tried to get in her bed since, which raised a thousand questions. Not that she’d made any offers. The fact he spoke to her through the bedroom wall all night proved he was staying well and truly in his own bed, but it was okay. She felt comfortable enough in the other room and had a good night’s sleep.

Looking down at him, she figured she’d better help pack the few bits left, so she poured away the warm dregs in the kettle, then held it out the window to cool down some more.

Will was frowning up at her. ‘You catching snowflakes for our tea, Gin?’

It did look that way. ‘I didn’t want to put it in the box while it’s still a bit hot.’

He gave her the thumbs up, then went back to sorting his truck.

Ginny smiled once more at the snow, then got on with her task, and before long, Will was saying goodbye to his old home.

‘Do you want to visit anyone before we head off?’ Ginny asked. ‘I don’t mind if you want to pop in and see your old foster mum or someone?’

‘Nah, it’s okay. The only one that gave me a touch of stability died a few years after I joined the navy.’

‘Oh, that’s a shame.’

Will shrugged. ‘Story of my life. Anyway, time to move on again.’

‘I feel sad on your behalf,’ she told him, climbing into the truck.

‘Don’t be. It’s all good. I’ve had a lot of homes. Not found one I’ve missed yet.’

‘I hope you find a home in Port Berry,’ she said softly. ‘And I don’t mean a place to live. I mean somewhere that feels homely that you would miss when you’re gone.’

‘You didn’t want to leave here a minute ago.’

Ginny laughed. ‘True. But I do love my home.’

‘Well, I have plans to put down roots, so—’

‘You do?’ There was way too much excitement in her tone. She told herself to reel it in as he jumped out the truck to stick the envelope containing his door keys through the letterbox at the estate agents.

‘I’ll tell you my secret if you promise to keep it to yourself.’

Ginny almost squealed at him sharing private matters. They really did need something uplifting to bond over. It couldn’t all be doom and gloom that brought them closer.

Will pulled out of Tenby, hitting a main road and thicker snow. ‘I’m starting a business in Port Berry. A shop.’

‘Ooh, what are you going to sell?’

‘Tea and cakes, I guess. I’m opening a tearoom.’

Ginny frowned. ‘Where?’

‘Along the front. Harbour End Road. I noticed there wasn’t one, and I think it would be a good fit, don’t you?’

Yes, she knew that. She’d known way before he came to town with his cute smile and sexy man hands, which were now annoying the life out of her.

He glanced her way. ‘What do you think? A tearoom will do well along the front, eh?’

‘Well, yes, but—’

‘That’s what I thought.’

Ginny told herself to calm down. It wasn’t as though any premises were available along there anyway.

‘Mabel hooked me up with the woman from the perfume shop,’ added Will. ‘Sheila wanted out and fast, so we got a solicitor on the case straight away. She wanted the money as soon as possible. Don’t know her story, but I think she got lumbered with the place after her husband died. I didn’t get into it with her. Anyway, she signed on the dotted line as soon as someone handed her a pen. I think she said she was moving to Florida. There were a few swear words involved about her husband, but I shut off halfway through the conversation.’

He was the only one smiling and hadn’t noticed the scowl on her face.

Ginny unclenched her fists and took a calming breath. The news was all a bit too much.

‘I won’t make a start until the new year,’ he added. ‘But I’ll probably have a clear-out once Sheila’s packed up her stock. Perhaps get the shopfitters in. Feel free to give me some pointers.’

It was too late. The rage was burning the back of her eyes, and the fire in her gut was ready to erupt. How bloody dare he muscle in on her idea and take over! Of all the cheek. That was her dream not his.

‘You can’t open a tearoom,’ she snapped.

Will glanced her way for a second, frowning. ‘Why, what’s wrong? I think it’s a great location, and it’ll give me a steady income. I’ve been doing some research, and it’s definitely a great investment.’

‘Investment, yes, but do you even bake cakes? Is it your dream?’ she snapped again.

‘Erm, no, I don’t bake, and I wouldn’t use the word dream exactly. This is business, and I want something staff can run while I focus on my voluntary jobs. It’s perfect for me, and for the community. I thought you’d be pleased. Mabel reckons everyone will love having a tea shop along the front.’

‘Well, Mabel’s right, but you don’t understand.’

‘Understand what?’

Ginny tapped her chest. ‘That was my idea.’

‘Oh, sorry. I didn’t know. When were you opening?’

‘I’m not. Well, I plan to. I just don’t have anything set in stone yet.’

‘So what are you saying here? You just had the idea and that’s it?’

Ginny shrugged. He had her there. How could her idea compete with his actions? ‘I was in prep mode.’

‘Is that right? And now what? You’ve got the hump with me for getting on with it?’

‘Yes!’

‘You’re being ridiculous.’

Ginny huffed. ‘I’m being ridiculous?’

‘Yeah, you are. You can’t have a go at someone for opening a shop that you just dreamed about. If you told me you already had the wheels in motion, then I would sell something else in my shop, but all you’ve got is an idea that no doubt a lot of others in Port Berry have.’

‘Oh, well, just stomp all over me why don’t you.’

‘I’m not stomping on you, Ginny. You have a café. If I were opening one of those I’d see your point, but as it stands, your point is stupid.’

‘Got any more names you want to call me?’

Will sighed. ‘I’m sorry. I’m not calling you any names. I wouldn’t. I’m merely pointing out how unfair you’re being.’

‘Unfair? I’ll tell you what’s unfair. Some stranger buying your dream, then no doubt buggering off in a couple of years to see if he can find another home.’

‘I told you I’m settling in Port Berry.’

‘Way to make friends, Will.’ She folded her arms, staring out at the thickening snow falling harder and faster.

‘Oh, that’s just great!’

At first she thought he was talking to her, but then the truck slowed, and Will peered closer to the front window.

‘What’s wrong?’ she asked, wondering what her chances of survival were if she jumped out and scarpered down the motorway.

‘Accident up ahead. We’re being directed to the slip road.’

The snow was getting worse by the minute, and Ginny wished they had stayed in Tenby another night. The windscreen wipers were on full, and the vehicle mooched along at a snail’s pace. Visibility was poor, and neither of their bad moods helped.

‘They call this karma,’ she said, leaning forward as though her eyes would help with the driving.

Will scoffed. ‘Karma for what?’

‘Stealing people’s dreams.’

‘Oh, really? Well, in case it slipped your mind, you’re in this with me.’

‘But you started it.’

‘I didn’t start anything. All I did was share my plans with you. I actually thought you’d be pleased for me.’

‘Why would I be pleased? That’s my tearoom, not yours.’

‘I . . . Bloody hell, I’ve missed the turning now.’

‘Just turn around.’

‘I can hardly see a thing.’

Ginny scanned the area, not seeing much but snow and greenery. ‘Ooh, look, what’s that? There’s a sign.’

‘What sign? Where?’

‘There. Right there. Can’t you see?’

‘I see a blizzard.’

‘Oh, you missed it. Look, take that road. It must lead somewhere.’

Will blew out a puff of aggravated air. ‘Yeah, they all lead somewhere.’

Ginny flopped back, crossing her arms once more in a huff. ‘I’m just trying to be helpful.’

‘You know what would have been helpful? If you had just been supportive when I told you my happy news.’

They may be crawling along a country lane, but Ginny’s mind was going full steam ahead.

‘Why on earth would I support someone stealing my idea?’

‘Because it’s an idea you’re not doing anything about. Anyway, the way I heard it, the café was your dream.’

‘It was. Once. But now I have new dreams.’

Will sighed loudly. ‘Look, I’m sure we can—’

‘Don’t talk to me. I don’t wish to be your friend.’ She saw him glance her way.

‘You don’t wish to be my friend?’

Ginny turned to face the side window.

After a few minutes of silence, Will pulled up.

‘Why are you stopping?’ she asked, looking out at the blizzard hitting them from all angles.

‘I can’t see a thing. I don’t even know if we’re still on a road or in a field. We’ll have to wait it out.’

‘We will not!’

He shuffled in his seat to face her. ‘Got a better plan? An idea that perhaps you might actually work towards?’

Ginny pursed her lips. ‘Yes, put the satnav on. At least we can get an idea where we are.’

‘It’s broken, and I haven’t got around to getting it fixed yet. Didn’t think I needed it for this trip, seeing how I know the way.’

Ginny reached into her bag and pulled out her phone. ‘I’ve got no service. You?’

Will checked his own phone. ‘There’s a bit. Let me open the map. Oh!’

‘Oh, what?’

‘Battery died.’

‘Are you kidding me?’

He turned it her way as proof.

Ginny tutted. ‘We can’t stay here, Will. Who knows how long this blizzard will last. You said it was due to snow all week.’

‘There’s a blanket in the back.’

Ginny poked a finger towards the windscreen. ‘Can we just drive? For all we know there might be a town up the road, or somewhere we can shelter.’

‘It’s dangerous to drive in these conditions.’

‘Do you want me to drive?’

Will shook his head. ‘I can manage, thank you. It’s not about me or you. It’s about that.’ He gestured to the large clumps of snow bashing the vehicle.

‘Can we at least try, please?’

‘Fine, just keep your eye out for any signs of life.’

Ginny shuffled forward, leaning her arms on the wide dash. ‘There are lots of little villages just off motorways. We’re bound to find one.’ She sighed heavily. ‘Not sure I’d want to live close to a motorway.’

‘I don’t suppose they did either, but seeing how the roads were built through the countryside, I’m guessing they didn’t get much say in it.’

They drove along, scanning the area in silence, seeing nothing but snow, snow, trees, and snow.

‘Ooh, what’s that?’ Ginny snapped to attention. ‘See? A sign. Yes, we’re saved.’

Will pulled up, unwinding the window for a better look, causing Ginny to laugh when his face was covered in snow within one second. ‘You can get out and look if you want.’

Ginny giggled. ‘No, thanks. I’m good.’

‘Hmm.’

‘Well, what did it say?’

‘Happy Honeymoon something.’

Ginny frowned. ‘We’re lost in a blizzard. This isn’t the time for jokes.’

‘I’m not joking.’ He pulled the truck forward. ‘I think it’s a hotel.’

‘I’m not staying in a honeymoon hotel.’

‘Fine. You can stay in the truck.’

She wasn’t about to do that either so quickly chose the lesser of two evils, which was the warmth and comfort of a building, hopefully one that had a loo.

They both stared at the large farmhouse as they pulled up outside.

‘What if they haven’t got any rooms available?’ Ginny felt like crying. Not only had she just had a row with Will, she was stuck in a blizzard in the middle of nowhere, and the only thing she could see was a huge pink love heart flapping in the wind beneath porch lights welcoming her to the Happy Honeymoon Hotel.

Great!

‘We don’t need a room. This snow will probably ease in a few hours. Wait here. I’ll see if it’s open.’

That was a decision she was happy with. The heating in the truck was set to cosy, so she wasn’t ready to leave it behind until she knew for sure it would be replaced with four walls and perhaps a crackling fireplace.

If I had a honeymoon hotel, I’d definitely have a big Father Christmas fireplace .

The door to the truck opened. ‘They said come in. Hurry, it’s freezing.’

Ginny clambered out into the cold, surprised when Will tucked her arm in his. Did he think she was incapable of running through a blizzard?

‘We could always pretend we’re married.’

She was sure that’s what he said, but what with icy snow whipping into her ears, she couldn’t be entirely sure.

‘Oh, goodness. Look at you two,’ said the elderly woman in the doorway. ‘Come in. Come in. Quickly now.’

Ginny took a breath as she swiped her hands down her soaked jumper. ‘Thank you so . . .’ The whole of the hallway was bright pink. ‘Much.’

‘I’m Mrs Henshaw, and Mr Henshaw will be down in a minute. Haemorrhoids keeps him in the bathroom for a bit longer these days.’

‘Ginny and Will,’ said Will.

Mrs Henshaw’s eyes peered at Ginny’s wedding finger. ‘Aren’t you married?’

‘Erm,’ muttered Will.

Mrs Henshaw twiddled with her buttoned cardigan. ‘It doesn’t matter if you haven’t reached that stage in your relationship yet. We’ll not shoo you back into the storm. You’ve landed on our doorstep, and you need shelter.’

Will and Ginny smiled.

Mrs Henshaw waved them over to a small dark desk. ‘Let me settle you into a room. This storm won’t pass until the morning. Just said on the news. Best to get snug and warm.’ She glanced up from her opened guestbook. ‘We’ve only got one room available, as the other two are being decorated. Thought it best to get on with that task this time of year, as we don’t get many guests. I’m glad we didn’t strip them all now. Lucky for you, eh?’

Ginny gazed around at the numerous foil love hearts hanging from the ceiling while Will pulled out his wallet and paid with his card.

‘I’ll just fetch our bags,’ said Will, heading for the door. ‘Won’t be a sec.’

‘Who is that down there, Mrs Henshaw?’ asked the smiley old man taking one step at a time as he descended the stairs.

Ginny offered a small wave. ‘Your wife’s rescuing us from the blizzard.’

‘Ooh, it’s got bad,’ he said, gaining traction as he reached the bottom step. He glanced at her bare ring finger. ‘Aren’t you married, young lady? We normally have couples blessed under the eyes of the Lord here.’

Ginny followed his eyes up to the ceiling.

Mrs Henshaw turned to her husband. ‘They’re not on their honeymoon. They’re sheltering from the storm.’

Will came bustling through the front door, bringing half the blizzard with him. ‘Hiya. You must be Mr Henshaw. I’m Will,’ he said, shaking hands with the old man. ‘Thanks for taking us in.’

‘Let me show you to your room,’ said Mrs Henshaw. ‘Then you can come down to the dining room and have some dinner with us later. Food is included in your bill, as is bedding and towels, but you will have to pay extra if you want to watch the television in the parlour without us. We don’t have it on all hours. There isn’t one in the rooms, you know, what with this being a honeymoon hotel. Folk don’t stay here to watch TV.’

They followed her up the stairs and along the landing to room number one.

‘Oh, good Lord!’ Ginny gasped at the sight of the ruby-red bedding, sickly-pink walls, and heart-shaped cushions scattered on the maroon chaise longue over by the window.

Mrs Henshaw frowned.

‘Thank you for blessing us with the Happy Honeymoon Hotel and Mr and Mrs Henshaw,’ Ginny quickly added, looking at the pink ceiling.

Mrs Henshaw smiled, then left them alone.

Ginny immediately turned to Will. ‘It’s good of them to help us out.’

Will shrugged. ‘Yep. For a moment there I thought we were going to have to pretend to be married.’

Ginny stared at the double bed. ‘Hmm, well, husband or not, you can take the couch.’

Will tipped his head. ‘Fine by me, wifey.’