Sea Glass (WAYHAUGHT)

Serving Up Nemo

Waverly's phone sprang to life as they neared Nicole's car. Charlotte's message had her hesitate. Today was her day to be with Nicole, rather than running back to the village. She pushed the phone into her back pocket, joining Nicole in the car.

The streets of Fowey were less congested, although still busy, what with it being the weekend. Tourists wandered along lanes as narrow and as quirky as Mevagissey's. The car crawled towards the quay marking the centre of town, Nicole pointing to a property on their right, a typical gift shop, its large window displaying postcards, and fridge magnets, and hanging mobiles made of shells.

"We looked at that one," she explained.

"What made you decide on Meva?" Waverly said, glad of Nicole's choice.

"Easy." Nicole pointed to the aquarium building opposite. "I didn't want reviews saying we were serving up Nemo to our diners."

Waverly nodded in agreement. "True."

"The real reason was my dad. I mean, he's made a life here. He wouldn't want me rocking up."

The driver behind beeped. Waverly turned to see Doc's van, a momentary hesitation before waving back. He motioned with his left hand whether they wanted a drink, Waverly giving him a thumbs up.

"It's Doc. He's asking if we want a pint."

"There's nowhere to park," Nicole replied, braking suddenly as a group of tourists made a last-minute decision to walk in front of her car.

"Not here. No one drinks here on a Sunday. Golant."

Nicole gave her a look to say she had no idea what Golant meant in the Cornish language.

"There's a pub further up the river where locals go. It'll be quieter."

The Fishermans Arms was comfortably busy. A large concrete terrace provided ample space for wooden benches, giving unobstructed views over the river. Doc shook hands with two men on entering the pub, instructing Waverly to go find a free table outside, while he headed to the bar to order.

Five minutes later, three drinks purchased, Doc lifted his pint of Tribute. "Nos da! [goodnight]."

Waverly snorted into her half pint.

Nicole lifted her sparkling water.

Doc continued speaking in the local language. "Hanging out with foreigners now are we."

"She's not an outsider," Waverly replied for Nicole to understand. "Her dad's from here."

Doc looked in Nicole's direction. "Is that so?"

Nicole nodded.

"She's one of us," Waverly added.

"Know most in these parts," Doc said, staring directly at Nicole. "Which family?"

"Carew," Nicole replied, staring back at Doc.

"No fucking way."

Waverly too was staring at Nicole's side profile. "Carew!"

Nicole glanced over. "Yep."

"Tommy Carew," Doc said, lifting his pint glass. "The hair. Well, fuck me sideways."

"You know him?"

"Everyone knows the Carews," Waverly explained. "They used to own Penwarne Manor. You know, by my beach."

"He's a character," Doc added. "Well, well, well. One of us hey." He lifted his pint glass. "Geddon me bewty [welcome friend]."

Nicole lifted her drink, taking a few sips.