Total pages in book: 96
Estimated words: 89183 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 446(@200wpm)___ 357(@250wpm)___ 297(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 89183 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 446(@200wpm)___ 357(@250wpm)___ 297(@300wpm)
“I agree,” Fiona said, her words far more measured. But she also had a lovely smile, and if she was less effervescent than her sister, she was no less beautiful for it. Although Josie couldn’t help but notice a hint of sadness behind her smile. Or maybe she was just imagining it because of what Malcolm had told her.
“I’m really excited about it,” Josie said. “And once we get these cottages sorted out, I know that Elderflower Island will be the perfect place for people to come and lose themselves in books.”
“It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to do that,” Fiona said in her soft voice. “Honestly, I can’t hardly remember the last book I was able to read all the way through.”
“Fiona entertains a lot,” Alice explained. “She and her husband, Lewis, lead very active social lives.”
There was an edge to Alice’s words, but no malice. Okay, maybe a little when she was talking about Fiona’s husband, but it was obvious that she loved her older sister very much.
“I still think you should come to one of my gatherings sometime,” Fiona said to Alice. “I’d love for you to meet some new people, instead of always talking to your plants.”
Alice laughed. “I love talking to my plants. They’re more interesting than some people. But thanks for the offer.”
“I’m putting together the party for Mari’s book launch in a few days. I hope you’ll be able to attend,” Fiona said to Josie.
“I wouldn’t miss it. I had a chance to see the book when we first met a couple of days ago. It’s a beautiful story that both children and adults are going to love.”
“I can’t believe she showed it to you first!” Alice said. “I’ve been dying to see it live and in the flesh. If I had time today after looking at the garden, I’d go by and see it, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to dash off pretty quickly. In fact, I really need to get over there now.” She turned toward the bedrooms and hollered, “Malcolm? Aren’t you beautiful enough yet?”
He stepped out, looking so good in a T-shirt and jeans that Josie’s breath actually left her. She was beyond glad that his sisters were present when she first had to face him, as she felt all the awkwardness of the kiss between them, as well as the way she’d bolted.
However, Malcolm showed no sign of even remembering their passion last night.
He said, “Good morning,” in a way that took in all three women, then he turned to Alice. “Look what the cat dragged in,” he teased. “And, Fiona, good to see you too.”
The siblings all smiled at one another.
“I just need to mainline a cup of coffee, and then I’m ready to go.” He smelled the air. “Someone brought croissants. Tell me there’s one left.”
Alice shook her head, then laughed. “Of course I made sure there was one for you. Do you think I want to deal with you being Mr. Cranky Pants all morning?” She turned to Josie. “Be warned. When he doesn’t eat, he’s not pleasant to be around.”
Josie enjoyed watching the three of them together. Fiona got up and poured a cup of coffee for Malcolm, then handed him a croissant on a plate. She was obviously very nurturing, and Josie hoped that what Malcolm had said about her husband’s being a jerk was just brotherly overprotectiveness. It didn’t seem fair that someone as nice as Fiona should have anything less than perfect love.
A few minutes later, they headed off to the cottages. Alice walked with her, while Fiona and Malcolm walked some distance behind them.
“Thank you so much for helping with this project,” Josie said to Alice.
“No, thank you. I’ve been dying to get my hands on the manor house gardens for years. I’m hoping that if I do a great job with them, the council might consider letting me get my hands on the walled garden.”
“I hope that happens for you. Malcolm says you work at Kew Gardens nearby. I haven’t had a chance to go yet, but of course I’ve read about it and seen pictures. That must be an amazing place to work.”
“It’s a dream job. I’m so lucky to be able to work in one of the greatest gardens in the world.” She gave Josie a little smile. “Of course I want more, though.”
Josie laughed. “Sounds reasonable to me.”
Alice looked dreamy as she said, “I just always loved the manor house grounds, even as a little kid. I would run around, and could see how they used to be, even before I had any training. I’ve actually been collecting old documents and books that talk about the gardens here, even if it’s just a passing reference or a single picture. When Mari said that the owner was allowing her to lease the cottages for reading retreats, I was hoping she would ask me to help. And now that all of you have taken me on board, I’m just bursting with ideas.”