Taylor Swift is my girl; her breakup songs speak to me. Belting out “Wildest Dreams” has me dreaming of a man like Scott Eastwood. Oh, yes please . . .
I’m brought back to the present when I pass the ‘Welcome to Canyon Bay’ sign. It’s three in the afternoon. The salty sea air blowing through my open window, fills my lungs. I wish it could cleanse my broken soul. Yes, it’s broken. How does one repair a broken soul? Hopefully, Trent’s highly recommended holiday destination lives up to its reputation. I hope someday I’ll be happy again.
Driving over a small hill, my eyes fall on the most beautiful scenery. The dark blue ocean glistens. The water is littered with people enjoying themselves, as is the shoreline. It’s so divine and peaceful. Seagulls squawking loudly, it makes me think they are probably squabbling over some discarded food by the noise floating through the car . . . it reminds me of the movie ‘Finding Nemo’ and those birds calling, mine! This place is something out of a movie. I can see the bustling tourists in the main street across from the beach front. It’s a stunning welcome to this quaint little town.
Unsure of where I’ve got to go, I make a quick stop at the next petrol station I find. Frantically, I dig through my bag searching for the piece of paper Trent gave me. The name ‘Sherri’ is scrawled in Trent’s handwriting on the note along with her number. Pulling out my phone, I dial. For some strange reason, I’m always nervous about calling someone I don’t know, but Trent assured me he would contact her before my arrival to let her know to expect my call.
As soon as it rings, she answers.
“Hello?” a sweet, elderly voice comes through the line.
“Hey Sherri, I’m Chloe. My friend Trent gave me your number to contact you about renting a place.”
“Ah, yes dear. He called this morning to let me know you were coming. I do have a cottage available for rental at the moment.”
Sagging with relief at knowing there’s something available, I continue, “Sounds perfect. Thank you.”
She gives me the address, then I type it into my phone’s navigation app. In minutes, I’m back on the road again, following the robotic voice.
After another half hour of driving, I pull up outside a beautiful pale yellow and white wooden cottage. If it looks this quaint on the outside, I can only image what inside will look like. I scan the rest of the area; it’s situated on its own, and right on the beachfront. It completely steals my breath. Sherri’s place appears to be the perfect spot to rejuvenate.
“Chloe, is it?”
I search for the small voice calling my name. An elderly lady who looks about seventy, stands at the front gate. Where did she come from? Has she been there since I arrived?
“Oh hello! Yes, that’s me.”
“Oh, aren’t you a beautiful young lady? I’m Sherri.”
A flush spreads across my cheeks. “Oh . . . thank you. Nice to meet you.”
“Come this way, dear.” She turns towards the cottage.
I follow, taking in the breathtaking sight of the sunlit ocean located almost at the back door. It’s incredible. Trent wasn’t lying. This place is magical. Even the breeze sweeps away every doubt, hurt, and unease I’m feeling.
“How long are you planning to stay?” Sherri asks while unlocking the front door. There are two layback deck chairs nearby with a table in the middle looking out onto the small mountain behind.
“Not sure yet. Maybe a couple of weeks if the place is good for me,” I reply, a slight grin on my face.
The lock clicks, and she swings the door open wide. “This is the first house my late husband and I owned when we moved to this town many, many years ago. He built it himself.” She holds her tiny hand on the wall of the cottage and closes her eyes for a moment, as if remembering all their memories.
“That is so beautiful,” I breathe. Finding true love is everybody’s dream come true . . . well, for me it is. Only not right now. I’m on a man ban.
“When we had little kids, we had no choice but to move into a bigger house, but this will always be my home because it holds so many wonderful mementoes. We couldn’t part with it because it was the beginning of our journey together.”
Oh my, that is the sweetest story I’ve ever heard. Perhaps true love does exist for some people.
“Wow!” I breathe.
Finally, I step into the cottage and my eyes fall upon the simple, yet beautiful room. The cottage is open-plan living. The lounge, kitchen, and dining room are all one area, and off to one side are two doors, which most likely lead to the bathroom and bedroom.
“We upgraded the kitchen not so long ago and put some new furniture in.” She watches me in a way I’m wondering if she’s waiting to gauge my reactions. I sure hope not, because I’d say my eyes are probably trying to pop out of their sockets. “Well, what do you think?” she asks
I look at her as she slowly turns around the room, smiling. She’s short with well-kept grey curly hair and clear blue twinkling eyes. Such a sweet spirit. A wonderful welcome.
“I think it’s gorgeous, I would love to rent it. Thank you so much.” My hands are gripped in front of my chest. Excitement creeps within my fingertips, urging me to grab my suitcase and make this place my new home. At least for now.
Sherri gives an excited squeal. “No, thank you, sweet girl. This place has been empty for a while now. It needs some life and a little more love.” My skin tingles with delight, “Now payments. The first two weeks are free—”
I open my mouth to cut her off.
She raises her hand stopping me. She’s quick. I’ll give her that. “Now, dear, it’s free because you’ll need to make a promise to come visit me regularly.”
My eyebrows come together. Huh? What is she on about? “I’m sorry, what do you mean?”
“I’m an old lady and don’t get many visitors in my big house. My family are now too busy for me. I’d just like a visit. Well, my grandson lives with me, but he’s a busy man.” She shrugs.
I instantly feel sad for her. “I’d love to come visit you. I know no one, but I’d love to get to know you.” Even though things suck in my little bubble, I’m always happy to make someone else feel special. Free rent or not, I still would’ve gladly agreed if she asked.
“Thank you, dear. Now if you could sign this private agreement I’ve had drawn up. I won’t put dates as you’re unsure about how long your stay is.” She hands me a single sheet of paper, stating that I agree to pay my rent on time and to take care of the cottage.
After I’ve signed it, she holds out her hand with the keys. “Here you go—always make sure you lock up.” She waves her finger at me, dropping the keys in my open palm. Once they’re in my possession, her soft hands take my arms and pull me down and in for a hug.
Is this lady crazy? I don’t believe she’s crazy, but super sweet. We’re going to get along great.
“You are a special girl . . . Don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. I see the storm within your eyes and sense the hurt you’re carrying in your soul. Whatever has happened, don’t be afraid to open yourself up to new possibilities.”
Is she psychic?
“Umm . . .” I’m rendered speechless.
“Don’t worry, dear . . . We’ll talk more when you come to dinner tomorrow night.” She taps my hand which she still holds, beaming at me. Honestly, she’s the sweetest lady ever.
“Thanks again. I look forward to it.” And I really do.
After spending the remainder of the afternoon unpacking, I settle on the back porch with a glass of wine. Surprisingly enough, the place had been stocked with a small amount of food and drinks. Sherri is one of a kind; I look forward to getting to know her more.
Watching the waves crash and the glow from the sun slowly going down, relaxes me. This is something I could get used to.
I settle in for the night with a good book and look forward to tomorrow and the start of something fresh and new.
A positive me.