15, end of June

Taking a step off the plane, a deep inhale was taken from a small girl. She was so happy to feel her feet on the ground, not cramped up in a plane with strangers having absolutely nothing to do. Well, not nothing to do, but how were people capable to just read their books or sleep throughout that flight? She made a mental note of saving up to buy a Walkman, knowing now that it was worth the money rather than using her radio.

Her brown eyes looked up to the sky, surprised to see that it was clear, a beautiful shade of blue that was only disrupted by light clouds. She had to hurry the security would only keep her luggage for so long. She followed the flight attendant to the area, knowing that it wasn't until she was with her grandmother she may feel at ease with herself.

She had a bag on her back, and within twenty minutes, a piece of green luggage filled with all of the things she needed for the summer. Her tattered tennis shoes walked to the area of people picking up their relatives, friends, even taxi drivers trying to take a tourist somewhere. There weren't a lot of people. Seeing it was still early in the day, there was a higher chance in her mind that people would go to other places to visit for fun.

And she wasn't visiting for fun.

"Tabitha! Tabitha, I'm here!" The young girl turned her head to the voice calling out her name, her grandmother in a fragile but slightly robust form. She gave a big smile before running and hugging her beloved grandma, Sonya.

She remembered the stories she heard of her, not having seen her since she was a little girl. Unlike her own family, her grandmother was able to travel wherever she liked whenever she liked. The majority of the family who didn't leave Trinidad in the late 80s migration went either to New York or Canada. Her grandmother opted out of that and came to Ireland, somewhere she always wanted to go from a young age. It worked out for her to be able to live out her last years there.

The young girl looked at her grandmother, grey hairs fighting to grow, but she refused to let it with the power of hair dye. Her grandmother's dark brown eyes beamed with joy as thinned lips widened with a smile. She hadn't seen her grandchild since she was a small girl, and how she had grown since then.

After the prolonged greetings, they took Sonya's small blue car down to the village. It was a nice ride, quiet with the fresh wind blowing in the young girl's thick mane.

They did some catching up, Tabitha giving news about the family her grandmother missed out on. Her aunt recently gave birth to a boy, so most of the family was overjoyed with that. She brought pictures for her Grandma Sonya to keep. It would be her seventh grandchild, that she, unfortunately, may never get to see face to face.

They entered the town, many people walking in the street to their destinations. Most gave a hello to her grandmother, smiling at her familiar face. Being the awkward teen she was, Tabitha studied her fingers, thinking it was her best option.

Within no time, although it felt like several hours had passed, they reached the small cottage, attached with a slightly bigger building, in front of some tables and chairs around in a quaint way. Tabitha knew it was her grandmother's book shop, the one she always heard about from her mother. It was part of her grandmother's dream to own a bookshop from when she was young, a passion for books that were shared between the two. Being the generous person she was, her grandmother would offer some refreshments to those who would stay and enjoy the warm weather in the summertime, something she knew was part of their culture back home.

They had gotten out, her grandmother leading her to the room where she would stay for the next two months. It was small, but if felt large with her 4'11" stature inside of it. There was a window, outside there was a small garden which Sonya grew and tended throughout the year. A bed, small desk, dresser draws, and a bookshelf was all that was already there.

She turned to the elder, "Grandma, do you by chance have a radio?" Sonya smiled, nodding as she went to get it. The young girl put down her luggage, taking a seat on the comfortable bed. She couldn't believe she was finally there, across the world from her parents and other family members who were quick to condemn her for things she never did. That was the thing about being a teenager, adults often thought they were all the same, rebelling by smoking and having pre-marital sex.

The only catch was that by staying with her grandmother she was meant to make sure she was well, and help her out with her bookshop. Though she didn't know anyone, Tabitha wanted to explore a little, have the ability to go places without needing her parent's consent.

Her grandmother entered back into the room, she brought the large boombox.

~~~~~~

About three days had passed since she arrived in the green, scenic country. It was a lot more tasking than she initially thought; her grandmother's schedule that is. Believe it or not her Grandma Sonya wasn't near as fragile as her parents made it out to be. In truth, she was more active than Tabitha. Within time, she quickly became familiar with several faces who were introduced to her as the regulars of her grandmother's shop, though she had a feeling it was for the free coffee more than anything.

Most of the people she met so far were on the older side of life, but she saw some youthful faces. Tabitha didn't speak to them though, opting to keep to herself, knowing she wasn't going to be there for much longer.

For the most part, she found herself sitting on the floor of the bookshop, finding herself engrossed in books. Her grandmother didn't mind, as long as she didn't block the customer's way.

~~~~~~

Within the first week, Tabitha was on a first-name basis with several members of the town. Her grandmother was a popular person, so being her family made it automatic for them to be nice to her. When Tabitha came to know someone in a close way, she would find herself opening up more, speaking a bit louder with them, and sharing her humor. It was favorable that many village members had similar humor to hers, or else it would've been an awkward situation.

She found it unbelievable that she was able to be open and herself around these strangers, but at home, it was rare to see her open her mouth with even her own family. She wasn't known well in school, many choosing to stay within cliques instead. Though she had her own opinions, it was kept hidden in her heart, not wanting anyone to feel animosity towards her.

If there was any truth in her, she was a people pleaser to her heart, never wanting to feel hate from anyone. If she sensed that someone didn't like a quirk in her, she would try to suppress it when they were around.

Did this mean she was spineless? Not in the least. From a young age, despite the strict household she was brought up in, she always had a strong sense of her opinions, which would be hard for anyone to change. That also went with her first impressions of someone; if they did something to rub her off in a bad way, then it would internally affect the way she saw them and how she treated them. People in her grandmother's town weren't an exception.

When it wasn't too busy, she found herself in a corner of the bookstore reading books. Unlike in New York, being worried about men catcalling her for wearing dresses, no matter the length, there was a peace of mind she felt not having anyone bother her for her style. She wore a short floral midi dress, reaching to just below her knees. When sitting down, it rose a bit higher.

She would always find herself on the floor in one of the aisles of the shop, sitting down barefoot engross in a book. No one had a problem with it, seeing that most folks were outside. Next to her was a cold cola, a straw at hand. She was reading the classic story of Tristan and Isolde; as a young girl, she was a fan of romance, especially one of those that have the lovers torn apart for them to be reunited again. Since then, she believed that she became a bit more realistic when it comes to love, knowing that in the real world something of that sort is pretty unrealistic.

Whenever she was engrossed in a story, it was hard to distract Tabitha from what she was doing.

He managed to do that without much effort.

~~~~~~

If one were to look at him without knowing anything, you'd think he had it all. He was extremely handsome, tall, wore the right clothes. There was also an air about him, one that people knew not to question.

When he first came to the town of Seahill, he wasn't sure of what to expect of the people, knowing they were known for their deep religious ties with the priest before him. There was also the fact that he was young compared to most priests who were given the responsibility to run a church. He was the mere age of 28, but he knew there were always big plans for his life, whether he had taken this route of not.

He remembered telling his father about his choice to become a part of the Catholic church. Being the only child of his parents, it wasn't how they imagined him to go. His father wanted him to continue on with the family business, which was quite popular in the country; if he wasn't a priest, he would be one of the richest bachelors around. His father was never one for strict religious views, so the thought of going to the church was beyond preposterous.

His mother, on the other hand, wasn't upset for the same reasons. Being a devout Catholic, she was happy to know she had taught her son the 'right' way, but there was a setback for her. There wouldn't be any grandchildren in their future. She was devastated knowing that the family line would stop at her son, but she never questioned his choice. She believed that if it truly was his calling, then he should do it.

That was nine years ago. Now, he was a successful clergyman who was moving up the ranks in the Church. He was good at what he did, despite the looming disbelief others may have towards him. In the town of Seahill, many parishioners believed that he wasn't capable enough to survive as a priest, thinking his fall would be impending. He hated that others didn't believe in him. He was never one to seek out a relationship in his past. His parents worried that he hadn't liked girls at all, insinuating some desires elsewhere, but he denied it immediately. It was simply that he never found anyone good enough for him. There was no denying though, having women fall for him was good for his ego. He had yet to find a woman under the age of 40 who didn't find him attractive.

He gave up quite a bit of things when entering the church, and the seeking of a romantic or sexual relationship was one of them. It wasn't that it bothered him at all, but it was the thought of not having something which enticed him. He always grew up having everything he wanted, so finding something that was denied to him would be a challenge.

It was a nice summer day, the first time in a while he came outside and the sun was shining. He decided to go for a stroll before heading to the church for the preparation of the Friday morning mass. He decided to go to the bookshop to see if there was anything new for him to read.

If he remembered correctly, which he did, the first person who treated him with kindness was Sonya Rampersaud. She was different than most members of the town, and it wasn't just because she was of a different race and culture. She was naturally a kindhearted human being who didn't judge others solely on first impressions. She gave everyone a chance to show their good side, despite what others may say of them, and he was no exception. Despite their differences in religion, her being a Protestant, they seemed to be able to talk quite a bit, forming a friendship over the years.

He was happy to see her again after some hectic weeks at the church.

"Morning, Father Foley!" He gave a curt nod and smile to a woman passing by, hoping there weren't too many people around today. He wasn't one for big crowds despite having to face them three times a week.

He was wearing a thick maroon sweater and tweed pants. Some may think he was cold when he wasn't. It was all he ever cared to wear other than his outfit for the services. He was always a sweater guy from a young age, it was only now people complained about it.

An internal sigh came to mind when he saw quite a bit of people entering the bookshop, no doubt wanting to spend an hour or two there. He was already here, so there wouldn't be any use to turn back. Maybe if he got lucky, he would get Sonya alone for a few moments to talk.

When he entered the shop, there wasn't a person in sight, meaning that everyone was getting served some cold beverages. He decided to stroll the rows of books to see if there was anything he would like to read.

When doing so, he saw something, something that he'd never expect to affect him.

There was a strange girl, small, long dark hair. She wore a dress, blue, which complemented her tanned skin. His eyes lingered on her legs, bare for all to see. Something that shouldn't be shown for all eyes. His dark eyes saw the book she was reading, finding it a peculiar reading. He took notice of the iced drink at hand, staring as she brought it up to her lips, the straw going between her thick, slightly chapped lips.

He gulped, not remembering ever taking notice of anyone in that way. He blamed her though, knowing that she shouldn't be wearing an outfit like that.

Clearing his throat, he allowed his low, deep Irish accent fill her ears, "You shouldn't be out wearing dresses like that."

He watched her reaction, her face finally looking up at him.

My, wasn't she beautiful? She had big, brown eyes, eyelashes long and thick. Her nose was small but straight, the tip pointed upward like a doll. Her face was slightly full, but no doubt an oval face to it. Her eyes looked curious but somewhat uninterested in what he had to say. He never saw her before, so there was a very high chance that she didn't know him either.

To her, he may just be an older man trying to reprimand her, which he was, but he was a revered man. To the people, his word was practically gospel. His eyes wandered down again, watching her small feet become involuntarily pointed, showing her red nail polished toes that were beginning to chip.

He looked her in the eyes again, wondering if she would try to argue with him about it. Surprisingly, she didn't, but she didn't listen to either.

Instead, she ignored him.

She. Ignored. Stephen.

There was something in his heart that bothered him by her actions. A disrespect he never remembered truly feeling by others.

This girl was different, but he wasn't sure if it was for the good or not.

~~~~~~

Tabitha looked up at the deep voice who came to disrupt her reading.

He was a tall man, towering over the shelves made in the shop. His thick brown hair started to slightly curl in the front, drawing attention to his dark brown eyes. He wore a sweater and pants, which she found odd for the weather, but who was she to judge?

She took notice of his sharp features, a jawline that could cut someone, cheekbones high.

She knew he had to be older than her, not a chance they'd ever be anything. He was attractive, just not enough for her to go bonkers for like a Brad Pitt. Besides, he was at least ten years her senior. She wasn't up for that.

So she ignored him and went on reading. Why should he critique her attire if no one else was?

She could feel his stare on her, most likely upset that she wasn't adhering to what he told her.

She decided before making a bad impression on this stranger, she would simply leave, taking the book with her. Her grandmother's shop was like a library to her. As long as she brought back the book in perfect condition, she had nothing to worry about.

Getting up slowly, she was making attempts to be sure her dress didn't ride up in front of him. Picking up the soda she had, she managed to walk past the tall man without really giving him a second glance, her bare feet walking across to her grandmother's cottage.

He watched her actions, her sensual way of getting up in front of him, her way of sauntering by him, not looking at him. She walks straight towards the direction of Sonya's cottage in bare feet. Her short body getting smaller as he simply stood there.

She was a minx, a vixen, much too young to understand what she is doing.

He blinked, standing still, not sure of what to exactly do. It did take him by surprise. The girl had taken him by surprise.

"Stephen! It's so good to see you again. " He turned to see the elderly woman who owned the shop. He gave a small smile to her, walking in her direction. "It's good to see you too Sonya, have anything new for me?"

~~~~~~

About a month into her stay, Tabitha realized half of her summer was already over. She was having a pleasant time with her grandmother, realizing that they were much more in common than she had thought. Most nights they would read together, discussing the themes as if they were in a book club.

In the day sometimes she would listen to the radio, her love for music was immense. At home, she would often have to hide listening to the music, her parents not liking her to listen to anything but Christian songs. She did like Christian music, but they're still plenty of other songs she liked too. She loved David Bowie and Queen, who now most people would consider old music, even though it was barely five years since their latest albums came out. She also had a love for hip hop, growing up in the diverse community in Queens, New York.

Currently, her favorite was 'Hey Lover' by LLcoolJ and Boys II Men. When she was alone, she would listen to the music, dancing by herself. It was hard for her to find the station at first, but thankfully it was a song that played in the pop station, surprisingly.

She blasted the music loud in her room, forgetting everyone along with it.

On a rare occasion, Stephen Foley would go to parishioners' houses, just to say a polite hello and see how they were doing. Sonya was different. She wasn't a parishioner at his church though she would attend since there wasn't a Protestant Church around. They would spend hours in theologic debate and the differences within the religions. Today was one of those days. Seeing that it was now August, it was extremely hot. He wore a lighter material shirt, a deep blue with long sleeves and no collar, just three buttons in the top front. He wore a regular pair of pants, knowing it was rare to do so; he didn't like for others to see him like this, as a regular man because he wasn't. He was unofficially the head of their town, whether others would like to acknowledge it or not.

She welcomed him with open arms, as always, both taking seats in her quaint living room.