Bodies and Bows by Elizabeth Penney

Author:Elizabeth Penney
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: St. Martin's Publishing Group

CHAPTER 14

“Good morning, you two,” Sophie called from behind the counter at the Belgian Bean, where Madison and I were meeting for breakfast. “There’s a table open in the back.” The cheerful café was a hive of activity this morning, with all seats in the front room full and a line waiting at the counter. The Bean was now one of Blueberry Cove’s favorite eateries, and I was glad to see Sophie’s hard work paying off.

“Perfect,” Madison said, giving her two thumbs-up. “We’ll have our usual coffee orders and two Benedicts.”

Sophie’s brows rose. “Oh, splurging today, I see.” She grinned.

“You bet,” I said, my belly already rumbling. Her concoction of poached eggs resting on ham and a Belgian waffle with hollandaise sauce was absolutely to die for.

We made our way to the back room, which was slightly quieter and overlooked the harbor—a major point in its favor. As Sophie had promised, a two-top next to the windows was free, so we grabbed it.

“Breakfast at the Bean,” Madison said with a sigh as she slipped into a seat. “My favorite.” She gazed out at a lobster boat chugging across the harbor.

“Mine too.” I set my tote bag on the floor, then sat, smoothing my full skirt under my bum. Today I wore a cute new dress with a bluebird print, trimmed with matching blue piping.

“Love that dress,” Madison said. “Did you make it?”

“Thanks. I did. It’s from a great nineteen-fifties pattern I found.” I fiddled with the packs of sugar, hoping that we wouldn’t have to wait too long to eat.

Madison was still eyeing my dress. “That style really suits you. I’d like some retro outfits, but with my bony bod…” She scrunched up her nose.

“Cut it out. You’re gorgeous.” I thought for a moment. “If you’re serious, I’ll gather some ideas.”

She shifted in her seat. “Would you? I would love that.”

Sophie hurried into the room, carrying a tray. She set our plates on the table, followed by huge mugs, condiments, and wrapped utensils, then pulled over an empty chair. “I can sit for a few. The team up front has it under control.”

“Awesome,” I said. “That gives us a chance to visit.” I stared down at my plate, admiring the presentation before grabbing my fork and knife and attacking.

Between bites, we talked about the menu for the museum open house. Sophie offered to make some of the appetizers for us. “I have a great old cookbook with really cool canapé recipes. I’ve been wanting to make them for ages.”

“Oh, I adore trying vintage recipes.” My phone rang. Bella. Then I had an idea. “Hey,” I said when I answered, “want to do a video call? I’m with Sophie and Madison.” I set up my phone up against the napkin dispenser so we could all see.

After a round of greetings, Madison asked, “How are you doing, Bella?”

Bella sighed, pushing hair off her forehead. “Not too bad, considering. Trying not to think about anything, or worry. I’m just focusing on the kids and taking care of myself.

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