13. A New Islander
13
A New Islander
C HAPTER THIRTEEN
Daniel
Strolling down the familiar path to the inn, the quaint building stood against the backdrop of the ocean, a beacon of warmth and comfort in the cool February air.
A little over a month since I’d left, but it felt like a year since I’d heard her voice. Yet I hadn’t called. I’d been so intent on putting my plans in place, and so many things had gotten in the way. But now, I’d returned for good.
Pushing open the door, I scanned the room, heart pounding with anticipation. And there she was, Roz, behind the reception desk, her eyes widening in surprise as she caught sight of me.
“Daniel?” Confusion uppermost in her voice.
“Hey, Roz,” I greeted her, trying to keep my tone casual despite the torrent of emotions swirling within me.
“You’re back?” Her gaze searched mine for answers.
I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. “I told you I’d come back, Roz, and I meant it. There’s something important I have to tell you.” My words hung between us, heavy with meaning. “Can we talk?”
I hoped she could see the sincerity in my eyes, the genuine desire to make things right.
Her lips pressed into a thin line, but she nodded for me to continue, her gaze unwavering.
“It took longer than I expected to clear out my apartment, and wrap up loose ends,” I explained, my hands fidgeting slightly at my sides. “To sign over my lease and start closing my practice, and a thousand other chores that got in the way.”
“You closed your practice?” Roz’s surprise was evident in her tone. “So you’ve made your decision already?”
Taking a deep breath, I met her gaze, sincerity shining through. “Yes. I’ve decided. I’m staying in Lonesome Bay. This is where I want to be, Roz, for you and for us.”
“Staying?” Her eyes widened in surprise, and I could see the questions swirling in her mind.
“Yes,” I confirmed, my voice steady. “I wanted to surprise you, and there was so much to do to prepare. Roz, I’ve agreed to take over the old clinic.”
Roz blinked in shock, processing my words before a soft smile tugged at the corner of her lips. “You’re really serious about this, aren’t you?”
“Dead serious,” I replied, a mix of determination and delight swirling within me. “I want to build a future with you, Roz. Leaving my old life wasn’t easy, but it’s nothing compared to the thought of losing you. No matter where I go, my heart keeps leading me back here. I want to create a life with you where every day is a step closer to making our dreams come true.”
Her eyes shone with unshed tears that I hoped were tears of joy.
“Roz, can we sit down?” I asked, gesturing towards a small table in the lobby. I should’ve waited until she’d gotten off work, but I’d been too keyed up to wait.
“Alright.” She agreed as she came around the counter and sat down at a small table in the lobby. I sat across from her, intent on watching her face as I shared all my news.
“Ever since I came here to this island community, I’ve felt this connection growing inside.” I started, then paused, considering my words carefully. “The pull I’ve felt to be part of this life, and your life has been like nothing I’ve ever felt before.”
“My life?” Roz raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “Are you sure about that? Our community can’t compare to the life you have in the city, and I can’t compare to the women like Sasha waiting for you there.”
“I’d never compare you to Sasha.” I admitted, my heartbeat quickening at the thought of the future. “Or, rather, she could never compare to you. You don’t realize how much I’ve grown to care for you, and I know I need to change that by being here. Or as close to you as I can be.”
She reached out and held my hand. “Do you mean it?”
“I do.” I said softly, looking at her with a newfound sense of hope. “And I’m not trying to pressure you. Just know that I’m here because I believe in the life we could have together. I believe in our future.
“Oh, Daniel,” she sighed, a genuine warmth in her voice as she leaned forward and kissed me. A slow, lingering kiss filled with all the words she couldn’t yet say.
When we separated, I smiled. “So you’re OK with this?”
“Yes,” she replied with a smile of her own. “I’ve been waiting for you ... for what feels like such a long time.”
“Then come with me after work, and see the clinic. There’s so much work to be done before we can open, but I want you to be part of it. A part of everything.”
“There’s nothing I’d rather do.” She said. “But wait! Shouldn’t I get you checked into the hotel first?”
“Actually, no. There’s an apartment behind the clinic that I’ll be staying in from now on. Come when you get off work, and I’ll give you the grand tour.” I rested my hand on her cheek.
“There’s one thing I have to ask before we go any further. I suppose I should’ve asked before.” Here I paused, unsure of her response.
“Ask me anything.” She said, looking deeply into my eyes, her smile giving me the confidence to continue.
“There are many things we have yet to discuss, but I need to know, are you okay with the age difference between us? I’m thirty-eight, and you’re twenty-three? Fifteen years makes a difference.”
Her grin grew until she was laughing out loud. “I’m twenty-four, and yes, I’m okay with the age difference. Goodness,” she added, trying to get her breath back, “I thought you had a tough question, like … do you mind if I bring my other wife along? Or … does it bother you that I have a criminal record? You had me worried for a moment there.”
I shook my head and laughed with her. “No, there are no other wives, and I’m not a criminal.”
“Good! I’m glad we got that out of the way, aren’t you?” She asked with a wink.
“I am. So I’ll see you at the clinic later?”
When she nodded, I leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek, since she was still on duty.
As I left the inn, I couldn’t help but glance back at Roz. Her eyes still followed me with curiosity and affection? The afternoon was just beginning, and I felt a surge of anticipation for what was to come later. I whistled on my walk to the clinic.
Later that afternoon, I opened the clinic door at the buzzer’s ring and announced, “Hello Roz! Come in and meet my soon to be staff.” And giving her a theatrical bow and wave, I led her into the front lobby, where I introduced her to the two women I’d hired with Linda’s help.
“Hi Roz,” Shari greeted her with a warm smile, her purple glasses perched low on her nose.
“Shari! How wonderful to see you back in the clinic.” Roz replied, giving her a warm hug.
“And no one is happier than I am,” she replied with a chuckle, her voice filled with contentment. “I’ve given my notice at the hospital, and in two weeks I’ll be back on the island full time. No more commuting, and getting to help right here where I’m needed the most. I can’t wait to get started!”
“When I met with Shari at the hospital to interview her for the Nurse Practitioner position, her enthusiasm and expertise immediately impressed me. I knew she was the perfect fit for our clinic. Being an islander only clinched the ticket.” I told Rosalind, causing Shari to blush at my praise. “It’s true.” I added.
“Who wouldn’t? Shari is perfect for our clinic, and everyone knows it, so word will spread like wildfire. I’m so glad it’s working out for both of you.” Rosalind gushed, her arm still wrapped over Shari’s shoulders.
“I’m glad too. And this,” I added, gesturing to the young woman standing by the front counter, quietly taking in all the fuss, “is Nessie. Have you met her yet, Roz?” I asked, turning back to Roz and Shari.
“No, I don’t think I have. Have you been here long, Nessie?” Roz looked with interest at the petite brunette.
“No, ma’am.” The young woman replied in a timid voice. “My mother and I moved here last fall. She teaches the sixth grade, and I just graduated last June. This receptionist position will be my first job.” She added, looking down at her feet.
“And we’re going to train her right, don’t you worry. You’ll be a pro in no time.” Shari stepped forward, taking the young woman’s hand, and smiling until Nessie raised her eyes and smiled back.
“Well, I’m sure you’re going to be wonderful, Nessie.” Roz added, giving me a wink, which Nessie didn’t see.
“Thank you so much, ma’am. It’s such an honor to work here,” she replied earnestly, her eyes shining with gratitude.
“So, when will the clinic be opening?” Roz asked, looking at me with one eyebrow raised.
“Since it’s been sitting unused for a while, there are some repairs that I’ve scheduled to bring the building up to code. And I’ve ordered some new furniture for the clinic, as well as the apartment in the back. All in all, I believe we’ll be ready in about two weeks.”
“Wow! That’s fast.” Roz said, sounding impressed. “You have gotten a lot accomplished while you were gone.“ She laid her hand on my arm and smiled, her green eyes flashing.
Looking out the front window, I noticed the sun beginning its descent. “It’s getting late, ladies. Nessie, I’ll see you in about a week to help set up the office once the furniture arrives. And Shari, I’ll see you in two weeks, once your notice is up with the hospital. I’ll call you both if anything changes, OK?” I paused for a moment, waiting for their responses.
“Sounds good, Dr. Westbrook. I’ve got to catch the ferry for my shift at the hospital tonight. Only two more weeks!” Shari said as she picked up her purse and left for the dock, waving as she went.
“I should go too, Doctor. I need to get dinner ready for my mother. Nice to meet you, Miss Rosalind.” Nessie nodded and left quickly, keeping her head down as she walked down the street.
Once Roz and I were alone in the empty clinic, I turned to her. “Why don’t we pick up Joseph and go out for dinner to celebrate?”
“That’s a wonderful idea.” And she put her arm in mine as we walked out of the clinic. Her face looking radiant in the sunset’s glow.
Over dinner at a beach restaurant, we discussed our plans with Joseph.
“Daniel, thank you for inviting me to join you tonight. It means a lot,” Joseph said. His delight showed in his smile when he heard our announcement Roz and I were dating, and that I was re-opening the clinic.
“Well, what better way to celebrate than with family? And these changes will affect you more than anyone else on the island. We’re family, aren’t we?” I joked.
“True, and I’m so happy for you both. I always knew you would make a wonderful addition to our little community if you chose that path, and now here we are. My prediction is coming to life.”
“Thank you for your support. It’ll take some work, but I feel it will uplift the community as well.”
“Speaking of support,” Joseph added, “if you need any help, just let me know. I know all the best plumbers, electricians, contractors, cabinetmakers, you name it. You need it. I know where you can get it.”
“I’ll keep that in mind and let you know. Linda, the innkeeper, referred me to the contractor I have coming this week. She’s been a tremendous help in getting this going.”
“I’m sure she has. She heads the community events committee, along with running the inn. Did you know? I hope they gave you a good deal on the clinic? They’ve been trying to fill that place for a while now. I bet she’s tickled pink to have you here,” Joseph said.
“Well, I don’t know about pink, but yes, I think she’s pleased. The repairs seem mostly minor, but there are some changes I’ve requested, as well. It won’t be long now, before we’re up and running.”
“Wonderful! But I think it’s time I went home so you two can get reacquainted.”
“Grandpa! We’re not trying to rush you off. We want to celebrate with you.” Roz reached over and held his hand.
“I know Rosie, and it was a lovely dinner. But three’s a crowd, as they say.”
“Fine,” she said with a sigh. “Let’s get you home.”
With Joseph safely home, Roz grabbed some blankets, and she and I sat on the porch bench. We listened to the ebb and flow of the waves, and gazed at the star-studded sky.
I stole a glance at Roz, feeling a warmth spread through me. This woman, with her generous heart and unwavering support, was my port in the storm. “You’ve brought light back into my life, Roz.”
Her gaze met mine, her eyes sparkling with emotion. “I feel the same way, Daniel. It’s like Mother Nature brought us together.”
With our hands entwined, we looked out over the ocean, bathed in soft moonlight.
“Here’s to new beginnings,” I murmured, turning to Roz with hope and promise in my heart.
“New beginnings,” Roz echoed, her voice filled with certainty and love.
And as I gazed into her eyes, I felt compelled to do more, so I shifted the blankets and got down on one knee.
I heard a small gasp from Roz before she covered her mouth with one hand.
Holding out the diamond engagement ring I’d recently selected from my favorite New York City jeweler’s, I looked up into her gorgeous green eyes.
“Rosie. Can I call you Rosie?” I asked, knowing it was Joseph’s private nickname for her. But somehow it fit her personality so much better than Roz. When she nodded, I smiled and continued.
“Every day with you feels like a beautiful adventure, and I don’t want to wait to see what our future holds. You make my world brighter with your kindness, laughter, and love, and you’ve changed my life in ways I never thought possible. I can’t imagine spending another day without you as part of my life. I promise to love you, cherish you, and stand by you through everything this life brings. Will you make me the happiest person in the world and marry me? Will you say yes to spending the rest of our lives together?”
I looked deeply into her eyes and held my breath. Having laid everything on the line, I’d begun to second guess myself, and wonder if this was too soon.
“I’m sorry,” I said, shaking my head as I got up, hoping I hadn’t truly blown it. “I should’ve planned this better. Just forget ...”
But I stopped apologizing when her eyes lit up, and tears of joy started falling. Then I knew exactly what her answer would be before she spoke.
“Yes! Yes, my love! Today, tomorrow, or whenever you want, I will marry you.”
I pulled her up from the bench and held her in my arms. We kissed under the moonlight, with the stars and moon as our only witnesses. The love in my heart overflowed until I felt we might float away on our own ocean of love.
And as I looked to Heaven, I knew now was the time to get busy making her dreams come true.