A Happy Ending for Kim
An earlier version of this book explored POVs other than just Adam’s. Along the way, I played around with chapters from Graham’s POV, Rose’s POV, and even Kim’s POV.
In the end, I decided to stick with a single point of view—Adam’s—but along the way there were some nice moments discovered, including this one which takes place at the big Holiday party at the inn.
Across the room, Adam laughs and puts a hand, tentatively, on Grahams shoulder.
Kim feels a warmth in her chest, a surge of hope. It's a good feeling. A hopeful feeling. But is's accompanied by a sense of longing that she tries to push out of the way. Her life is good. She doesn't need that right now. Someday, hopefully, but she has so much to be grateful for, and she needs to focus on that.
“I think I did well with that one.” Pearl’s tone could only be described as gloating as she nods towards Adam and Graham, now smiling at each other.
“You did.” Rose says. “You really do possess a kind of genius.”
Pearl looks flattered and begins to speak.
'“A very particular kind of genius.” Rose corrects.
Rachel, rises to her tip toes to watch the men above the crowd. “Aunt Pearl, you should help my mom next.”
Kim feels her face flush. “Okay, listen, punk,” she says in the embarrassed tone that parents use to pull focus away from their child. “I'm the grownup here, and I decide when —”
“Pearl!” A honeyed voice calls out and the women all turn towards the sound. The source is tall, dark, and handsome. He wears a cream coloured cable knit sweater that pops against his dark skin. He approaches the group, and gives Pearl a greeting kiss on the cheek.
Pearl pats his shoulder. “So good to see you, Marcus. I'm so glad you came.” She turns to the rest of the women. “Marcus, this is Rose, this lovely young lady is Rachel, and that's her mother, Kim. She's the one I was telling you about.”
Marcus puts his hand out to shake. Kim takes it slowly, dazzled by Marcus’ gleaming white smile.
“Pleased to meet you, Kim.” He says, his warm brown eyes wrinkling at the corners.
“— meet you.” Kim replies, suddenly unable to access any of the speech centres of her brain.
But Marcus seems not to have noticed. “You're just as beautiful as Pearl said you were.”
At this, Kim throws a furious glare towards Pearl, who raises her hands in mock self defence.
“That's so nice of you.” Kim manages to say, turning back to Marcus.
“And...” Marcus says. “She said you give excellent tours. I'd love to see more of the inn if you're willing to show me around.”
Kim nods, dazedly, and takes Marcus’ arm as they walk through the crowd.