“It’s nice.” I smiled the gentleman. “How long does it take to make something like that?”
“I’ve been doing it so long now, it’s only a matter of minutes.” The salesman winked at me. “Of course, that means you’re getting quality workmanship from a true craftsman. Been jewelry making since I was a lad.”
“And you can tell.” Ava reached for her pocket, but hesitated.
“Let me.” I should have made sure that she was carrying cash before we left the Inn. I wasn’t used to traveling with another person. Pulling my wallet out I handed the man a fifty note. “Keep the change.”
“Thank you.” The man smiled and chatted with Ava as he wrapped up her purchase. By the time we were on our way, I had the feeling that if the circumstances had been different, Ava could have spent hours talking shop.
“I’m sorry. I know we’re here for a reason, but I couldn’t help myself. What a creative idea! Bowties and fancy collar necklaces are really popular right now. If he shopped his piece, he could sell thousands.”
“No, it’s good to shop; blend in.” Some of her excitement dampened at my reminder of why we were here. Not wanting to derail her happiness, I prodded for more information about something she was obviously passionate about. “So you think he could sell the idea? Make a lot of money?”
“Definitely. There are buyers that look for just that thing. Searching little fairs and markets for gems.”
“And is that what you want to do? Search for hidden treasure?”
“You make it sound like pirates.” She laughed. “Maybe. It would take a while before I’d get to that point. You have to start at the bottom, show that you know what will sell. Plus I just love the actual work, you know? Making something come to life that had been in my head.”
“That takes a lot of imagination.” I steered her around a group of people congregating outside of a popular pub.
“I guess so. Sometimes I start something and have no idea how it’s going to end up. I’m just as surprised as anyone else.” She shrugged. “So, how about that breakfast you promised? I’m starving.”
“What would you like? A muffin? Some fruit? Or the full course?” I motioned down the street. “There is pretty much anything you can think of.”
“Hm. Let’s grab something substantial. That way if we don’t get to eat later, we won’t be running on fumes.”
“Smart.” I let myself drape my arm over her shoulders. We were supposed to look like a couple out enjoying the sights, after all. “But I promise to do my best to keep you fed.”
“Good. You don’t know this, but I’m mean when I’m hungry.” She smiled up at me as we wove through the crowds.
“Actually, it was made quite clear when you threatened to shoot me last night over Chinese take-away.”
She shrugged. “What can I say? I really like lo mein.”
I pointed at a door between two Inns. “It’s been a while, but the last time I ate there, it was pretty good.”
“Well, let’s give it a go.” She bounded up the short steps and into the little restaurant. The person behind the counter waved us to a table and Ava greedily pored over the menu. “It smells divine.”
I smiled as I sat down. We were here in Notting Hill to stalk my traitorous brother but she was still excited about the smell of bacon and eggs. Then again, the food did smell pretty good.
“I can’t believe I’m here.” Ava set her menu down and peered out the window. “I’ve always wanted to visit Notting Hill.”
“And why is that?” I folded my hands in front of me.
“Julia Roberts.” She shook her head at my blank expression. “The movie? Notting Hill? Julia Roberts, superstar actress and Hugh Grant, the average bookshop owner?”
“Afraid I missed that one.” I shrugged.
“You haven’t seen it? Are you serious?” Her eyebrows drew together. The little wrinkle along her nose made me smile. “How could you have missed it? You don’t even remember the previews?”
“Is it a recent movie? I’ve been out of the country.”
“No. Gosh, it came out when I was young. I grew up with this idealized vision of Notting Hill and the people that would live here. Blue doors and people with orange hair.”
I had no answer for that. Blue doors and orange hair? What kind of movie was it?
An older waitress came over to take our order, but the glimpse of a familiar face distracted me. I tried to peer around the tiny restaurant without being conspicuous, but there wasn’t much hope. It was too crowded for me to see anyone without actively standing up and that would give away that I had indeed seen someone.
It wasn’t until Ava cleared her throat loudly that my attention returned back to the table.
“Excuse me?” I realized that Ava and the woman were looking at me.
“What’ll you have?”
“The same, please.” I nodded at Ava and smiled. I didn’t want either of them to see the worry that was gnawing at my stomach. When the waitress walked off, I shifted in my seat to get a better look around the room, but it was hopeless. I debated getting up and pulling Ava along with me, but the crowd eating breakfast provided a little security.
“Who did you see?” Ava lowered her voice, but thankfully didn’t look around the room as if trying to spot something.