Charlotte

My heart jumped as I looked out of the window as the plane began to descend. "There it is, Scotland"!

I could barely contain my excitement, after waiting a lifetime it felt to visit the land I had always felt drawn to. Like a piece of me was missing. My heart was pretty bruised and battered at this point. After a terrible failed marriage to John, I was left feeling like love was just not in the cards for me. Insecurities about my figure and words swimming in my head that I was too different, had become a close enemy whispering in my ear. That's when I finally had decided that the best thing to do was to feed me gypsy spirit. Basically run, anywhere really, but instead I decided to choose the place from my dreams. Mostly short-term jobs had become the bulk of my income. After giving everything to John in the divorce to just be rid of him. It had taken me longer than I had liked to save up for this trip. But being determined and well?. some would say mostly stubborn, I had made up my mind. The divorce was quick and clean considering during our marriage I wasn't able to get pregnant. Although at the time it broke my heart, it now made me thankful that there were no children to get caught up in that mess.

I began winding a small bit of yarn and my crochet hook to put them away into my small bag. Keeping my hands busy makes the flight go smoother for me. So I always pack a ball of yarn and a hook so I can crochet some squares. The plane touched down on the runway, the screeching of the tires echoing through the cabin. With a sigh of relief, I unfastened my seatbelt and stood up. The other passengers began gathering their belongings, but I was in no rush. Time seemed to stand still as I gazed out the small window at the rolling green hills just beyond me.

As I stepped off the plane and onto Scottish soil, a wave of familiarity washed over me. The air smelled different here, crisp and tinged with a hint of sea salt. It felt as though I had finally come home. Never had I felt like I belonged, always feeling like more of a strange visitor in America.

Making my way through the bustling airport, my eyes taking in every detail. The sound of bagpipes played softly in the background, their haunting melody adding to the sense of enchantment that surrounded me. I couldn't help but smile as I thought back to my childhood dreams of exploring this magical place.

Stepping outside, I was greeted by a cool breeze which ruffled my hair and brought a flush to my cheeks. Over in the distance I spot the taxi area. Walking over to them I ask one of them " Hi there, would you be able to take me to the Brooks Hotel in Edinburgh?"

"Sure thing" he said.

Moving to the side to grab any bags that I had carried and swiftly placed them into the back of the car. Riding along the roads everything seemed surreal, like I was still in a dream.

I had always believed that it was fascinating how DNA worked. Passing down certain traits and such from everyone throughout your family that in a way, their emotions and history, maybe even desires also passed along to others or your own.

At times I have feelings that leave me confused. Are they really mine?

Pulling up to the Hotel I notice the stone architecture that radiated around each window. It looked consumed with the time that had passed, and the stories that were seen by its walls.

Its hard to believe that the oldest building where I grew up was maybe a hundred years old. Yet this place was paved with stones that could speak from hundreds of years past. I believe the online research I did said it was almost two hundred years old.

As I stepped out of the taxi and stood before the grand entrance of the Brooks Hotel, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence. The centuries-old stones seemed to whisper secrets, stories of lives long gone. It was as if the building itself held the memories of those who had walked its halls, their emotions and desires embedded within its ancient walls.

Inside, the hotel exuded an old-world charm that captivated my senses. The timber beams creaked with each step, and the soft glow of candlelight danced across the opulent furnishings. I could not help but be transported back in time. It was beautiful and welcoming.

The friendly receptionist greeted me with a warm smile as I checked in.

"Welcome to the Brooks Hotel," he said in a thick Scottish accent. "We hope you enjoy your stay"

" Thank you! How do I get to my room again" I laugh a little then shrug.

I am so distracted by everything that I barely heard the first time he had told me.

"No problem ma'am, it will be down your right corridor and up the stairs"

" Ok, great. Thank you again" I smiled and turned walked down the corridor.



As I settle into my quaint yet comfortable accommodations, I start to feel a slight stirring inside of me. Feeling like I am ready to jump into a car and drive straight west through Scotland. I laugh to my self and shake my head. Calm down, I tell myself as my energy gets wound up like a top ready to be launched. I have most of this planned out, I am only staying the one night here and then one night in Inverness. Quickly I try and focus on the task at hand.

"First things first, let's try out the local pubs, hmm which one should I choose" Talking to myself out loud.

I scrolled down several options on my phone and decided on Thistle Street Bar. It had good reviews and kind of reminded me of some of the local ones that were trying to copy the look back home. Gathering my things, I set out on a little walk. The rhythm of the town was actually pretty fast paced. Busy with traffic and tourists, I did spot a small market to grab a few items later. Since I was only staying the one night in Edinburgh then heading out to the countryside for the remainder of my trip, I didn't want to load up on too many items to haul with me.

I arrive at the local bar. It was very lively for only being five in the evening. It smelled of wood and lacquer with a slight musk in the air. Music played in the background, but I spotted an area off to the back where it looked to be a band might be setting up for later that evening.

I found a cozy corner seat, tucked away from the bustling crowd. The worn wooden table felt sturdy beneath my fingertips as I settled into the atmosphere of the bar. The soft glow of dimmed lights illuminated the room, casting a warm ambiance that seemed to embrace me.

As I looked around, I noticed the locals engaging in lively conversations, laughter filling the air like musical notes. The bar had an inviting charm, with its wooden beams and vintage photographs adorning the walls. It felt like a place where stories were shared, where memories were made. It definitely had a few gentleman that looked as if this was their daily routine.

The bartender, a middle-aged man with a friendly smile, approaches me. "What can I get you, lass?" he asked, his Scottish brogue adding to the authenticity of the experience. I giggle in my mind trying not to appear as completely foolish.



"A glass of a good red wine, please," I replied, my voice filled with anticipation.

He nodded and swiftly wound his path through the crowd and back to the bar. I watched as he chose a bottle and lifted a wine glass from a sliding rack that held many hanging upside down. After pouring he weaved his way back over to me gently setting the glass down in front of me and smiled.

"Enjoy your time here, let me know if you need anything else." saying warmly before attending to other customers.

As I brought the glass of wine up to my lips and took a drink I could feel my nerves begin to relax. Melting into my seat and finally being able to come down of this emotional high of anticipation and excitement. I'm actually here. I sipped slowly on my wine, being a bit of a light weight now a days. Of course becoming rather flush now, (as what happens anytime I have a drop of alcohol) I could start feel the heat radiating from my face. Deciding to go ahead and get some air, I took one last gulp of wine and walked up to the bar to pay the man behind the counter. Then I stepped outside into the evening. It was still early in the evening, so I figured I would walk awhile getting a feel for the streets.

Before I realized, I was slowly approaching the Brooks Hotel. Just over a mile and a half away from the bar. It actually had made a nice walk. Entering the hotel, I waived at the woman who was now standing behind the check in desk, and headed up to my room. Laying on the interestingly soft but firm mattress, the travel and excitement of the day had finally caught up to me. I undressed and set out the clothes I was going to be wearing for tomorrow, then walked into the shower and turned the faucet on hot. I stood under the water as it washed away the feel of the long travel of being on a few planes for many hours.

Kylian

I stretched my arms over my head letting a grumble escape from my lips. Looking over at the clock on the wall it was five thirty in the morning. Years of getting up before six had trained my body to naturally wake up around the same time each morning. I walk over to the dresser and pull out a pair of boxer briefs that were a red athletic spandex, grabbed a pair of jeans and took out a sweater pullover. I have become quite comfortable in my routines every since that crazy woman had finally decided to vanish from my life. For the short time I had been married to ( )she had turned my life upside down with nothing but stress and fights and sleeping with half of Edinburgh. It was the quickest realization I had made a huge mistake when about a week after the wedding she had started to act like someone completely different than I though she was. She had definitely tricked me somehow. After deciding to move to that chaotic city after we were married, I was in absolute misery. Splashing a bit of cold water on my face in the bathroom, I shake the nightmare of that woman from my mind. I had plenty of nightmares that haunted me, she was not worth making the list.

I step into the kitchen and start the water in the kettle on the stove. Getting my pour over coffee strainer set on top my favorite sealable mug. I grab the dark roast container from the counter and scoop the black grounds into my strainer. Turning to pick up the now steaming iron kettle from the stove with a kitchen towel, I slowly pour the boiling water over the grounds. The rich smell of coffee fills my nose and drift throughout the house. Ring Ring Ring

Grabbing the phone from the wall "Hello"

"Hey boss, we got another booking that came in for a fishing charter. Can you pick up a few things we need for the boat?"

"I can, I planned on heading into Inverness later this afternoon after our run today. What exactly are we needing Oliver."

He gives me a list of items to pick up and I make a mental list. Heading out to the truck to head out to the docks to start today's fish grab, I wipe my hand over the hair of my beard. Oliver had to take the morning to help his family with something. So that left me to myself for todays run.

Charlotte

I was headed out to Inverness today, it rested just at the base of the Highlands. There I would bounce between a couple B&Bs and explore the beauty of this rugged country.

As the morning sun cast its warm rays through the window, I stretched my hands out to the ceiling before plopping them back down on the mattress. Today marked the beginning of my journey through the Scottish Highlands, a place that had captured my imagination since childhood. After a quick breakfast at a nearby cafe, I made my way to the train station, ready to embark on an adventure unlike any other.

The train ride was as picturesque as I had imagined. The lush green landscape rolled by outside the window, dotted with charming villages and majestic mountains in the distance. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the natural beauty that surrounded me.

Arriving in Inverness, I was immediately taken by its bustling charm. It definitely seemed like a popular place for tourism. I know the tv show Outlander made a lot of places in Scotland gain in popularity. But honestly the train ride made me think more of Harry Potter and the Hogwarts Express.

Secretly I was hoping to come across a similar castle. When I was doing my research I was a little disappointed that a lot of the castles were either closed for renovations or they had too much modernization done to them. I had found a few that were left to their original beauty and was planning on visiting at least one on my way out west.

Kylian

I had always enjoyed seeing the countryside on my way into Inverness. Ullapool was a wonderful town that I loved, but from time to time the limited resources there required me to take a drive to the next largest city being Inverness. Stocking up on supplies, any clothing that may be needed and a few items from some of the specialty markets. Along the drive today, I spotted a couple farmers walking their sheep to a neighboring field to graze. For a brief moment it brought up thoughts of my own childhood on the farm. Mine was not an experience that I wanted to remember as it was plagued with a mixture of danger, some beauty but also nightmares I would rather forget. I shook away the memory and swallowed as I straightened in my seat, I turned on the radio and replaced my thoughts with music. That was one of the things I loved about music. Not only playing it but listening to it as well, I could get lost in it?

Pulling into town I parked the truck at the usual market I tended to favor. Although I could catch all the fish I would ever need, it was nice to have some variety like pork, beef and chicken.

Giving a joyful "Good Morning" to the man named Ben behind the checkout that of my favorite market I visited often.

The tall and thin framed older man shouted back "Hey Morning to ya" as he waived. "How's the fish been biting"?

Answering his question I said "can't complain"! "It's been a good year, so I feel pretty blessed."

"Glad to hear" the man replied.

I continued through the market grabbing all the items I had planned also remembering the items that Oliver said we needed for the next charter. As I went to leave, I noticed the clouds had turned pretty dark. Looks like a pretty good storm is about to break through.

Heading to the next store where I was planning to get some new socks and a few more shirts, I dipped inside just before the rain drops started to hit the ground like they were throwing rocks. "Well, that was close" I said flashing a quick but charming smile to the lady standing in just inside the door. She smiled back and her smiled turned a little wide-eyed look as she peered behind him out the door.

By the time he had finished with his shopping and came back to the front of the store, people were tucked inside the entrance to avoid being pummeled with water. I didn't mind it much, I ducked out from behind the glass door and with a hastened pace to my truck I flung open the door and tossed the items in the back seat. It was a small seat that only had small folding chairs that unfolded from the sides. Basically useless unless you were under seven years old.

Charlotte

After settling in at the Inn, I double checked the remaining reservations. "let's see, I have my stay at the Old Mill B&B in Ullapool starting tomorrow. Then I have a fishing charter booked for the following day." I need to see about the ferry to take me to the Isle of Skye, I will have to sort that out tomorrow when I get to Ullapool"

Now that I had made it to my halfway point, I figured it was a good idea to go ahead and arrange for a rental car so I could avoid the standard tour buses, take my time and adventure where ever the wind takes me. Gathering a light jacket and my purse I headed to the main area to ask the lady behind the desk about renting a car.

"Sure thing, you will want to head down this road here, and make a turn to your right and then after passing two cross streets it will be on your left" the lady told her. She was very friendly and as happy to help. She had also called a taxi to get her there, now if she could make sure she remembered how to get back, good thing my phone has maps on it.

After picking up the car and getting a joking reminder from the rental company about driving on the correct side of the road I headed back. Gritting my teeth and white knuckling it for a while, keeping my focus on driving, a bright flash followed by a rolling crackle filled the sky and all around me. "Ah come on" I yelled as it started to pour down rain. Making the drive was going to be a lot more difficult now, I could barely see the road. Seeing how the storm has consumed most of the daylight that used to be shining in the sky a few moments earlier, I was now in a strange place with a very strange car and I could barely see a thing. Slowly driving towards out of town to reach the Inn where I was staying, I squinted trying to see if my turn was getting close. Having trouble seeing the sign I glanced down at my phone to double check the map, it was stuck on the loading screen. Panicking, I cursed. "Well crap! What do I do now!" All of the sudden feeling very helpless and insecure I tried to pull the side of the road.

" Oh wait, which side am I supposed to pull over to?!" Freezing up I end up slowly drifting to the middle with out realizing it. As lights go to pass me, I hear a loud crash! Followed by a nice little jolt as the car bounces to the side a bit, sitting there stunned for a second before I finally realize "oh no! I just rented this car and now I just wrecked it into to someone! "and of course I never think to buy the extra insurance, should have definitely considered that one in a place that drives on the opposite side of the road.

Kylian

Getting out of the truck, I checked the damage caused to the front of the truck. Well that's just great. Walking over to the car now sitting off a little sideways, I balled up a fist in aggravation and walked over and knocked onto to the window of the car that just literally ran me off the road.

"What the hell was wrong with this person" saying barely under my breath.

As the lights from my truck shined into the window, I saw a woman with long glistening hair starring up at me. Slowly the window rolls down and I see her. Eyes filling with tears and frazzled nerves making her shake with her breathing scattered. Instantly I felt my demeanor change, my eyes gazing into hers fills me instead with concern for the poor woman.

"I am so sorry! Are you ok?!, That's what I get for trying to drive in this country! She continued as tears streamed lightly down her face.

I lean toward her placing my hand on the door across the window. She was an American. Her accent was still a little unique, not really sounding like the average Americans who visit most of the time from New York or Boston. She must be from a different area.

"Just knocked the lips a bit on my truck but it will be fine." I try to say with a smile to ease the tension. "Are you ok? You seem pretty shaken up." As she looks up at me, she inhales slowly eyes flutter closed slightly as she releases the breath.

I stand here like a fool as the rain is pouring down around me soaking me to the bone. She doesn't seem like she is going to be ok to drive so I think I better offer to give her a ride and get out of this rain.



" Let me give you a ride to where ever you're going, I will make sure you arrive safely and give you some time to calm down. Then I'm sure you can find a taxi back to your car in the morning."

She looks down for a moment probably wondering if she can trust me, which I understand her hesitation. Here she is in a foreign country alone. But I will make sure she is safe. She has nothing to fear from me.



Quietly she responds "ok, thank you. I don't think I am very far."

Leaning over into her back seat she grabs a purse. I take a step back as she begins to roll up the window. I grabbed the door handle on truck and swung it open for her, as she slipped inside scooting into the seat, quickly I shut the door and ran to the driver side and hoped in.

Once inside the truck I turned the heat on full blast to warm up the cab. Now that we both seem to be drenched, a chill ran across my body. Looking over at her, the top of her chest was slightly exposed and raised skin prickled across her chest as water ran down in little connecting droplets. Suddenly a heat began to warm me from the inside, and a hunger I hadn't felt in a long time started to burn inside me.

Caught of guard by the reaction I seem to have for her, I let out a deep sigh that ends up sounding like some weird grumble. "Are you sure you are ok?"

"I think so, just feel stupid and embarrassed. I got?. I got confused when the rain started down."

"It's understandable, I would think if I had to drive in America after living here my whole life I would struggle as well" I turned and gave her a gentle smile. Her face lit up at me and she smiled back in return.

Her face was a natural beauty, no make-up, freckles lightly flecked across her very smooth and light skin. Her dark red hair now drenched from the rain fell around her face in even darker tendrils. I was surprised when she stepped out of the car that her head only came to the middle of my chest. It looks as though she is quite curvy but it was hard to tell the details with her jacket pulled around her.

"So where are we headed?"

Charlotte

I remembered I was in Scotland now and culture here is a little different than back home in America in the Oklahoma plains. Even though Oklahoma was considered to be pretty small and desolate compared to a lot of other places. Around where I was from in Tulsa area, there were homeless and drugs and crime still were everywhere.



Although my parents and brother still lived there, I just never felt like I belonged there. Trusting my intuition I had made my decision.



"I am staying at the Inn just outside of town on highway A9."

"I know the one"

I had noticed a slight linger in his direction towards me and I became slightly nervous.

As he began to drive towards the Inn I glanced back at him. He was maybe slightly older, very broad and shapely. I glanced at his hands on the steering wheel, they were very worn and looked very strong.

I spoke up deciding to break the loud silence as the rain continued to pour down. "Thank you again for giving me a ride back to where I am staying. I am so sorry for crashing into your truck".

I sunk in my seat a little, feeling rather guilty again.



"You are very welcome" he said, looking at me with that charming warm smile.



"This truck has been around awhile, you just gave it a little extra character."



That warm smile eased my guilt and lightened my heart. I was so glad he wasn't angry about it.

We both gave a quiet laugh.

Pulling into the front drive of the Inn, he brought the truck to a stop. "Hope you have a wonderful rest of your evening" he turned to face me his eyes meeting mine.

"Thank you, I hope you do as well. And thank you again for coming to my rescue"

my lips remaining curled into a smile at him before opening the truck door and rushing inside, closing the door to the truck behind me.



"Well that was an experience" I said, under my breath.

Walking past the lobby area of the small Inn I headed back up to my room. Using my key to open the door I stepped through and slowly pushed the door closed behind me. I realize that I had pretty much been holding my breath since getting into the truck with that man.

Slowly my chest begins to take deep rises and falls.

Walking over across the room I grabbed a hanger from the wardrobe and placed my soaking wet coat around it. I decided it might just be best to hang it in the shower on the rod so it didn't get the floor wet. Grabbing a towel from the rack and twisting it around my dripping wet hair, I unhooked my nightgown from the hook in the bathroom. Removing my drenched clothes and slinging them over the side of the sink. Changing into my nightgown I slipped into the bed to get warm. Replaying the evening in my mind.

I couldn't believe that I had just crashed into someone just minutes after picking up my stupid rental car.

In the morning I will call a car to take me over to pick it up. I wasn't going to deal with the fees I probably now owed the rental company until I return the car. A headache for another day.

I thought more about the man I had plowed into. Laughing to myself at the term I used. I wonder what it would be like to be plowed by him. Shaking my head at the silly notion. Evidently, I need to find a man at some point of this hiatus.



He seemed very irritated for a quick moment when he had knocked on my car window. But had quickly changed to being very understanding and charming. Something I definitely wasn't used to.

Besides all of my horrible attempts in choosing a decent man, then having a terrible marriage that ended in an equivalent to a hydrogen bomb I had decided that all men sucked. Well at least most of the ones that I had met. But this man was different. His smile had instantly warmed me and set my nerves at ease. "I didn't even get his name" I said quietly into the room.

Well that figures. Laughing to myself and thinking about my luck with men. I slowly drifted to sleep, after the emotional shock of wrecking the car, the cold rain and stress of the incident, the warm bed took me right off to dreamland.

Charlotte

After waking a little later in the morning than I had intended, I realized that I had completely forgotten to set my alarm the night before.

Then the thought hit me of my car still sitting somewhere on the side of the road.

"Aah!" I hurried and began throwing on pants. Getting a sweater from my luggage I pulled it over my head.

Hair frizzed as the sweater pasted over it, giving my hair an interesting look. One similar to touching one of those electric balls they used to bring to demonstrate during weather show science classes.

Quickly I ran into the bathroom and dampened a hair brush and began taming my long dark red hair back to the straight hair that laid down to the middle of my back. Grabbing the key to the room and my purse, I stopped by the front area where a man was greeting other arrivals.



After he sent them on their way, he asked me "how are you this fine morning" I look at him trying to keep the humiliation off my face.

"I'm ok, had a crazy thing happen last night so I am going to need that taxi I had yesterday." With a peculiar look but not wanting to invade on the details evidently, he said " sure thing, let me get that for you."

I waited quietly in a high back reading chair that sat close to the entry facing towards the door. Bouncing my heel quietly in the air.

Not before long a noticed a taxi pull just past the window and stop short of the entry. I practically leap to my feet and barge out the door in a hurry. As I reached the cab, he was leaning out of the drivers side mid-way about to stand. He looked at me and asked "I guess you would be the one who needed a ride then?"

"Yes, thank you"

He gave me a quick nod and a simple smile and fell back down into his seat. I hurried around to enter on the opposite side of the car. I still can't get used to the fact that the steering wheel is on the opposite side of the car. I guess when you a programmed to things being a certain way for so long, it's very difficult to reprogram. Reminds me of that guy who designed the bicycle with backwards steering. That was pretty interesting.

My thoughts continue to wonder in between giving him directions to the area I think my car is.

The taxi driver pulled up beside the car, and was given his fee. I jumped out of the car and rushed to take a closer look at the damage to the car. It wasn't too terrible, I stood there thinking.



Definitely not exactly good either. Giving a quick growl, I removed my keys from my purse and dropped down into the car. I headed back to the Inn so I could grab the rest of my things and load everything into the car. I wanted to get some exploring done before I head farther west today to my sort of final destination. Really it was going to be the main base of sorts while I explore the far western Highlands and islands.

Shaking the coat that was hanging in the shower from the night before I thought about the sweet stranger that had made sure I made it safely to the Inn last night. I had really hoped that I would have at least asked his name. Thinking to myself, I felt foolish. Why would that man have any interest in someone like me. I wasn't some innocent little virgin and I did seem quite a bit younger, turning thirty earlier that year. It seemed most men were looking for fit and athletic women which I was no longer considered. After my mid 20s hit, my body decided to take on a more thick and shapely design. Not like that would catch the eye of many. Shaking off the disappointment I had with myself and my body, I shook my head and pulled my eyelids tightly closed and let out a breath. Pushing those negative thoughts to the side, I headed back down to the main entry with all my items.

Saying my final goodbyes to the man at the lobby I headed out to my car and started down the road.

I went ahead and decided to take a look at the Urquhart castle while I was in the Inverness area.

It wasn't too far and it was supposed to have great views of the area.

Walking down the stairs to the entry of the castle, I paused at the guard house. The stone walls inside the ruins glistened from the moisture in the air. Cold and hard as I ran my hand across the stones, as if listening to the stories they told. For a moment I just looked around quietly, imagining all the lives that had touched this place or even been lost here.

According to what I had read, the castle was built a very long time ago and had changed hands several times before being intentionally blown up to prevent further occupation.

Walking through to the rest of the landings throughout the castle I came to a spot that indeed gave a wonderful view. I was there in September and the colors had just started to change. Vibrant leaves speckled through the trees. Heading down to the rock laden beach closer to the loch I noticed kind of a weird earthy smell, and not only that, the water seemed to resemble a dark tea color or sewer.

Crinkling my nose at the smell, another lady walked beside me. "the peat in this area is what causes the smell" she stated.

Evidently the look on my face was quite apparent. "oh, really. Interesting. I guess my face was giving me away" a laughed quietly.

She smiled back "its something a lot of people bring up." Continuing on her walk she headed down the shoreline.

Well I believe I better go ahead and head to my next B&B.

The road curved at the base of the hills and straightened into the view of the coastal town of Ullapool. The B&B was just before entering the main part of the town right off the main road. Pulling in slowly onto the gravel drive, hearing the rocks crunching under the tires.

"Well I made it, and this time without crashing into anyone"! I said, probably looking like a complete fool considering I am talking to myself loudly as if someone else had been in the car with me.

Gathering my luggage, I headed up to the door, tightly pulling my fingers into a fist I tapped them on the wooden door and waited.

A few moments later I heard footsteps leading to the door. "Hi there! You must be Charlotte! Come on in my dear."

The ends of my lips curled in response to the warm greeting. I entered following behind her.

"My name is Amiri."

"Nice to meet you Amiri"

She was around the same age as me, and she had a welcoming demeanor. Her dark brown hair kinda bunched in curls a the top of her shoulders. She was small framed but seemed carry herself in a strong way.

"Your room is up the stairs." She stopped at the base of the stairs and guided an arm up them.

"Ok great, thank you" Heading up the stairs.

"I will leave you to get settle first then we can talk about the meals included with your stay.

"Let me know if you need anything."

I smiled and continued up the stairs. Grasping the antique porcelain door knob, I pushed open the door. I am greeted by a very English country designed simple room dripping with charm.

The smile growing on my face. I placed my luggage down on a smaller sized high back cushioned reading chair that was covered in floral print of dark colors. Nestled next to it was a small round wooden table that was beautiful. It was a deep rich stain with a slight red through the grains, it glowed with a glossy finish.

I quickly noticed that the end tables on either side of the bed matched the style of the table as well. "Beautiful".

There were two single windows on the far wall of the room, filling the room with the afternoon light. After taking a few moments to gaze out at the shore, I turned and began unpacking my clothes and organizing my items into an older dresser opposite of the bed. I think I will go ahead and settle in fully now that I will be staying awhile in one place.

I was planning to stay at least three weeks here at this location and using it as a center point to discover other areas in the region. Laying on the bed for a moment, I closed my eyes. An overwhelming feeling like I am just meant to be here washes over me. There just was no denying it anymore, could there be a part of my ancestors inside of me longing to go home. Longing for Scotland. I just don't understand it, but I can't deny the feeling of peace I get inside of me at random moments since I have arrived here.

Setting down the stairs I turned right to enter the kitchen area.

"all settled then" Amiri asked.

"Yes, and the room is wonderful, I really love your home!"

Smiling back " I am glad to hear, its been a labor of love" laughing in an awkward way.

She had slightly higher cheek bones and a small round face.

"Lets sit here at the table"



I followed her over to the table tucked into the corner and sat down.

" For breakfast I usually serve Arbroath Toasties with a side of Oatcakes" she started.

" What is Arbroath Toasties exactly, I haven't heard of it before?".

" It's a bit of haddock poached in milk then served on toast with egg and cheese.'

Instantly my mouth began to water.

"that sounds wonderful!" I was also getting very excited to try a new take on things.



" it is very good, one thing we have plenty of when on the coast is fish. Lets see now lunches I believe you wanted to be open because you might be traveling and exploring most days, is that right?" Looking up from her notes.



"yes" I said. "I am not sure where I am going to be most days or if I will feel like eating lunch. But I am definitely looking forward to dinner."

"Good thing dear, lets see what I have written down for some dinner options this week."

Reading through her notes, she slightly scrunched her face in concentration. Following the words on her note pad with the pen in her fingers. "Lets see, I have cottage pie for tonight, then Slow cooked Scottish beef stew followed by bubbles and squeaks. Cock a leekie soup after that and then for Sunday we can do Salmon with Potato pie." She looks back up at me with a questioning gaze.

"Honestly, it all sounds great." I reply with my eyes beaming with excitement.



"Now that's settled, tell me about yourself, and what brought you here?"

"Well I guess the immediate answer would be desperately seeking a change of scenery. But to be honest, this land has been calling out to me for as long as I can remember."

"Really, that's interesting, how do you mean?"

" I never felt like I belonged anywhere back home, like I was constantly searching for something, but ever since I landed, I have this weird peace in my heart like I am where I am supposed to be. Like I am home"

"That's amazing" She leaned in with an intent gaze.



I leaned back as to defuse the intensity of the conversation, well so I thought.

" So what led you to own a B&B'? I asked Amiri.



" Well It was always a dream of my husband and I. He was a fisherman for one of the larger trollers in the docks." Charlotte thought (was).

" Since he was out for weeks at a time, running the B&B would keep me busy and prevent me from being so lonely while he was away?"



Trailing off her eyes started to well with sadness, looking down in a blank stare she took a long deep breath and closed her eyes for just a moment.

"I am so sorry, I didn't mean to upset you"



"Its ok dear, you didn't know. We had married young, right out of school. He had already practically been raised at sea with his father so it was the natural choice for him to follow that path. On his last journey out they were up in the north sea and came into a huge storm. Somehow while securing one of the riggings for the equipment, something snapped. They said he took a blow to the head and fell into the sea."

"Oh my goodness! That's terrible!"

"Its been several months now, but I don't see time healing anything anytime soon."



"I can't even imagine. Sometimes I had actually hoped some tragic accident would have befallen my ex-husband. That whole endeavor is part of why I left. He was the depiction of the snake in the garden of Eden, sweet talking with deception and manipulation."



We continued talking and getting to know one another. Adding some wine later into the evening when we decided to move the party into the living room.



"So, what are you planning for tomorrow?"



My eyes grew wide. "Well, I am actually going on a small fishing charter." Taking a drink of wine and feeling awkward.



"Dear it's ok" laughing a little. It's not like someone dies every time a boat goes out. I have no issues with the sea, though I miss my husband dearly, our time here is never promised. It was the Lord's choice to call him home." Relaxing back into their chairs.

"So, who's boat you taking?"

"I believe my reservation is for Dragons Wake"

"I made the reservation with a man named Oliver. I think he said I need to be there around 7am. I arranged for a lunch on the boat as well. Eat what you catch kind of deal" my lips began to spread across my face as the excitement builds in side of me.

"I believe that is Kylian's boat"

" oh really, do you know him?"

" yes, quite well actually. My older brother Brian is good friends with him. He owns the pub down in town. Kylian and several others head down to the Brian's pub on the weekends and play music together. Some of the furniture in your room was made by him."

"He sounds like a pretty talented man, does he have family in this area also?"



Looking a bit contrite Amiri said "No, he doesn't have the best family history as far as that goes. He was married once, so my brother says. I guess she was a crazy harlette. They lived in Edinburgh for just six months, heard she slept with half the town and was crazy as they come."

"Wow that's sad, sounds like her and my ex-husband would have been a perfect match."

"Sounds like it" Amiri agreed.



As I looked up, I realized it was going on almost eleven at night. "Oh! I better get to bed if I am going to drag out of here and be at the docks by seven in the morning"



Standing up from the sofa I walked my wine glass into the kitchen and gave it a quick rinse. Amiri had followed behind her. "Yes, you better." She smiled. "I will have breakfast ready at 6:15 in the morning so you can have a quick bite before you go"



Looking back at Amiri "Are you sure that's not asking too much of you? I would hate to get you up to early just for me."



"No problem at all dear. I am usually up tossing by a little after five anyway. Have a good night." She smiled again.



"Thank you, good night"

Turning the corner to the kitchen I walked up the stairs to my room. Knowing I would be dragging at six in the morning tomorrow, I decided to go ahead and lay out my clothes so everything would be ready and I would have less for my brain to focus on early in the morning. Slipping into my favorite nightgown I stopped by the window and looked out to the sea. With the changing of the seasons causing the temperature to drop, the mist rolled across the water thicker than I had ever seen. I was so beautiful, so magical. I let out a relaxing sigh and dipped into the soft covers. Excited about my water exploration tomorrow I had a little trouble falling asleep. Thankfully I keep herbal sleeping gummies with me that work gently but very well for me. Flipping the covers open, I walked over to my luggage and unzipped the inner pocket where they were kept. Popping one into my mouth a crawl back into the bed grabbing my phone to read a little on my kindle app. After about twenty minutes I my eyelids were finally heavy and setting my phone on the nightstand I let sleep take me.

Still dark outside the alarm on my phone began blaring me awake. Fumbling with it to turn of the noise I tossed it on the bed next to me. With a big stretch and grunting moan, I began to get ready for my day. I could feel that my hair was in a wild tantrum, grabbing my wooden hair brush I sat on the end of the bed and began smoothing it back down. I made sure to dress warmly with fleece lined leggings and a soft fitted long sweater since I was going to be on a boat most of the day, I also went ahead and double my socks and put a nice thermal shirt under my sweater. Gathering my coat in my arm I began walking down the stairs.

"Good morning" I head Amiri call out as I rounded the corner into the kitchen.

"Good morning, thank you so much for getting up and making breakfast for me so early this morning."

"No problem at all, are you excited for your adventure on the fishing boat today?" She finished up the fish toast, and turned and smiled placing the dish in front of me.

"I am, I sure hope I catch something good for lunch. I don't want to be stuck eating something weird." They both laughed together on that one.

"I am pretty sure Kylian will take good care of you even if all you catch is a boot" Smiling and laughing again. Amiri sat down next to me and we ate breakfast together.

Heading out the door I trotted over to my poor car. Every time I look at the front of it I am hit with two very distinct emotions. One being the absolute frustration that I had wrecked the stupid thing and the other being the very curious man that I hit that ended up being my rescuer as well.

I began heading down to the docks which was only about a ten-minute drive. I couldn't help but noticed that some of the smaller boats along the shore were tied up, but they were laying on the ground. "Well that looks weird". I remembered my parents talking about when they had traveled to Nova Scotia and how certain areas had dramatically changing tides. This was the first time I had seen it for myself.

Pulling into a small parking area to the right of the docks I parked the car and began walking down to the boat that showed the name I was looking for. About halfway down the dock I spotted it, it was a beautiful wooden boat that had Dragon's Wake across the back. It was stunning, especially when compared to the others around it. You could tell that someone really loved this boat, and they had spent a lot of time making it a treasure.

Walking closer I could see movement on the boat, standing close to the back I shouted "Good morning."

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