Josie had initially believed that returning to the sea might shadow her with melancholy. Yet, the opposite occurred; her thoughts lingered on a figure of resolve.
I wonder how’s Arnold doing these days…
Within an hour, their yacht docked at a secluded island, a hidden gem detached from the hustle and bustle of Wavery. The island maintained a unique ordinance: only bicycles were permitted, setting it apart as a distinct hallmark of this coastal gem.
“This island boasts a renowned seaside estate and the largest art gallery in the region. The artworks housed here are of unparalleled value,” Josie introduced.
Juliette raised a hand to shield her eyes from the glaring sun. “I’ve long heard of Wavery’s splendor, yet it seems to mirror the charm of other popular destinations.”
Josie absorbed her words. “Ms. Witherspoon, I “Please, don’t call me Ms. Witherspoon.”
“Then…”
“Call me Juliette,” she exhaled. “A friend once shared tales of an island in Wavery where one could perch on a cliff’s edge to behold a breathtaking sunset. However, given the throngs of tourists, I suspect we won’t be able to enjoy that experience.”
A spark ignited in Josie’s expression, her smile brightening under the sun’s rays. “I’ll take you there.”
“Is there truly such a spot?”
Josie, with a light step, ventured ahead. “This place is etched in my memories from my university days. Having roommates from diverse backgrounds, I often played tour guide. Hence, I’ve grown somewhat weary of the usual tourist spots in Wavery. The location you speak of, I’ve only visited once.”
Juliette, intrigued, followed her. “And why is that?”
Back then, the Olsen family celebrated Rachel’s birthday at Wavery’s premier art gallery. It was during this event that her plagiarism scandal unfolded. Dexter intervened, confining her to the manor behind the gallery.
That location just so happened to be here.
At that juncture, she felt utterly defeated, retreating into isolation. From there, she witnessed endless sunsets.
Indeed, Josie recalled the existence of a peculiar gap in the cliff.
Without addressing Juliette’s question directly, Josie inquired, “Is this place important to you?”
“My friend is a person of few words. They rarely made such recommendations. Naturally, my curiosity was piqued.”
Uncertain of what prompted the thought, but as Josie approached the manor’s boundary, she realized a prior arrangement was necessary. “I wasn’t informed about needing an appointment,” she remarked.
“My apologies, miss, but access to this location requires prior booking and isn’t open to the public,” the guard explained gently.
Embarrassment briefly touched Josie’s face, noticed by Juliette, who chose not to push further. “It’s all right,” Juliette conceded, “It’s my oversight for not mentioning this beforehand. Perhaps we can plan for another visit.”
Josie, lost in thought, then declared, “Hold on a moment, I need to make a quick call.”
The call connected almost instantly.
Dexter’s polished voice filled the line, “What’s the matter, Leanne?”
“I’m at… that particular manor in Wavery, you know, the one behind the art gallery? I’d like to go inside, but I’ve been informed an appointment is necessary. Any suggestions?”
Though it felt awkward requesting his assistance, Juliette’s hopeful look was undeniable.
Dexter, without probing into her reasons for the visit, softly instructed, “Did you bring your ID card with you?”
“Yeah, I did.”
“Just swipe your ID card at the entrance; it will unlock. I added your details into the system two years ago.”
Josie, taken aback, inquired, “Why wasn’t I aware of this?” as she proceeded to the ID scanner.
“I never meant to restrict your freedom two years ago. Leaving was always an option for you,” Dexter clarified, hastily adding, “Admittedly, that was a mistake on my part.”
As Josie swiped her ID card, not only did the grand gates slowly swing open, but the security guard’s expression also shifted to one of astonishment.
Juliette, visibly impressed, exclaimed, “Oh, my goodness.”
