Light in the Dark: Moon Harbor Series, #1

By Kate McWilliams

She wants a fresh start. He wants her.

 

After inheriting her beloved aunt's cottage in the charming small town of Moon Harbor, Alex Benning finally gets a chance to start over and leave a life of solitude behind. But she never expects to find herself face to face with her first love—the first man to ever break her heart.

 

Sam Waters stopped looking for love a long time ago and learned to be content with things just as they are. Until the one who got away comes back into his life and makes him crave more.

 

The flame between Alex and Sam reignites, and the sparks between them are brighter than ever. But as she settles into her new home, Alex begins to uncover the truth about her family and the tragedy that changed her life all those years ago. With more questions than answers, Alex and Sam set out to discover what really happened. And the closer they get, the closer danger lurks.

 

Sam already lost her once. He won't let it happen again.

 

***

Light in the Dark is a steamy small town romance with elements of mystery and suspense.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kate McWilliams
• Release date: Nov 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223894186

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

alex

After trying for years to get back to Moon Harbor, I was finally home. Well, not quite yet. I was currently driving around in circles looking for a road I began to doubt even existed. I mean, I knew it was there somewhere because I had driven down it many times before. Had lived on it, for goodness’ sake. For a couple months, anyway, when I stayed with Aunt Carol that one summer. And now, after my fifth U-turn and two dirt road detours, I was beginning to think I had imagined the whole thing, and it never existed in the first place. It wouldn’t be out of the question these days.

I hadn’t set foot in the small coastal town since I was eighteen—the last time I felt like somewhere could be home for me. At least, before it all crashed and burned and left me with torturous guilt running through my veins. It might well be a mistake to try to start over here, but I had nowhere else to go. At least here I had a cottage and a link to the only person I felt love from in my entire life. But thinking of her too much was leading me to bouts of teary-eyed nostalgia. Too often these days, it would hit me. Something simple that would lead me spiraling down in grief. Every memory, every sight and sound and scent of Aunt Carol came as a tidal wave crashing over me, and I could do nothing but hold on and let it pass through.

I cursed as I got stuck in a throng of traffic in a turning lane. I hadn’t meant to come downtown, but I was so flipped around. Some things were so different, so new. And others, like the view of the harbor before me, felt as if they hadn’t changed at all.

I wasn’t anywhere near Aunt Carol’s cottage, which I knew was on the outskirts north of town, but maybe I could take a driving break and ask for directions. I looked at the water across the road, deep blue and sparkling in the sunlight. Sailboats rocked gently with the tide. It was like a postcard. And what I loved best about Moon Harbor.

A horn blared behind me, and I shook my head and continued down the road. People were crossing at nearly every block, some toward the water and some toward the side of the street lined with beautiful old buildings. Towering trees, thick with bright green leaves, stood on the sidewalk next to those old-fashioned streetlights that worked on gas. It wasn’t too different from what I remembered as a teen, but everything looked brighter somehow. The buildings looked freshly painted, and it seemed most of the businesses were new, or at least, weren’t around twelve years ago. I couldn’t help but look every which way.

I passed a quaint little Italian restaurant with full tables lining the sidewalk. Next door was a bar called Landry’s that advertised a free pint of beer with the purchase of a lobster roll. I was about to look at the shop next to that when I noticed a car pulling out of the parallel parking spots next to the sidewalk. I had to pee and with how bustling the town was right now, it was as good a time as any to stop. Putting my blinker on, I swiftly backed into the spot.

Getting out of my car, I shielded my eyes from the bright afternoon sun and looked at the sign of the next store down. Swirly gold letters spelled out Witch’s Brew, set against a black backdrop of an antique-looking cup and saucer. Perfect. I stepped onto the curb and admired the glass windows that held displays of coffee beans in mismatched porcelain cups, French presses of varying sizes, and hundreds of crystals scattered about. The old-fashioned wooden door—painted a deep purple—had a sign on it that said Come in for a spell! I practically giggled at the whimsy and did just that.

As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods hit my nose and made my knees weak. There were lots of people milling about, some on big comfy looking chairs and couches, some at the small cafe tables, but luckily there was no one in line for the bathroom I saw in the back corner. I hurried over and into the large space, decorated the same way as the rest of the shop.

Washing my hands, I looked in the golden-framed mirror to survey the damage of the last few days on the road. I hadn’t been able to style my hair and it hung limply past my shoulders. I hadn’t worn makeup any of the other days since I was just going from my car to the hotel, but today I put on a little mascara and blush since I knew I’d be arriving in town. Not a total shit show, but I could definitely use some proper sleep, judging by the circles under my eyes. I would be lying if I said the past couple of months hadn’t caught up to me. The evidence was clear. I just hoped being in Moon Harbor and settling in would change that.

I walked out of the restroom, heading straight to the counter so I could treat myself to a cup of the delicious smelling witch’s brew. When the woman behind the counter turned around to help me, I was struck speechless for a moment. She was gorgeous—the spitting image of the actress in that Spiderman movie, so much so, my eyes narrowed as I scanned her face. Her long, dark brown hair was pulled back halfway, letting tendrils of curls cascade down her back and around her bronzed shoulders. Wispy pieces of it framed her heart-shaped face. Full lips turned up in a pleasant smile and her honey-colored eyes were alight with something that only bone-deep confidence can bring. I literally felt my mouth go wow before I had a chance to stop it. Her eyebrows raised, and I felt like an idiot.

Can I help you? Her lips curled in an amused smile now as my face reddened from embarrassment.

Um yes, sorry. You’re very striking. I’m not hitting on you or anything. Not that I wouldn’t if I were into women, I definitely would, but I’m not. I’m sort of new in town and I was just on this long journey and I couldn't find the cottage and I had to pee. Christ. Apparently, my brain decided word vomit would be the best way to approach a stranger. My face was one hundred percent at tomato-level red now.

The girl burst out laughing and I wanted to sink into the dirt beneath the tile floor. Sorry, I should go. I started to turn, but she stopped me with a soft hand on mine, which I hadn’t even realized was resting on the counter.

Wait, please, you’re fine. I didn’t mean to laugh, it’s just I’m used to men doing that schtick. It was a pleasant change to get it from a woman. She winked. She fucking winked, and even worse? It looked cool. I was not on her level. I’m Sara and this is my shop. You made my day, so why don’t I get you a coffee, on the house, and then you can tell me about this journey of yours.

That would be really nice. I’m Alexandra. I cringed at the formality. Alex. That was better. I let out a relieved sigh and watched as she poured a coffee into a mug that had a picture of an amethyst on it and said, Fueled by crystals and coffee. She set the mug on a small tray, added a porcelain creamer and sugar set, and carried it to a nearby table, gesturing for me to sit down.

So Alex, you’re new in town? Sara sat back in the chair in a relaxed way that oozed poise and comfort. But her eyes were direct, and her face warm, as if she really wanted to hear my story.

Well, I was born here, I started as I added some cream and one spoon of sugar to my coffee, but I moved away when I was young. And I lived here for a little bit when I was eighteen. My Aunt Carol died recently and left me her house. I never really settled anywhere, so I guess I figured I would come and give it a shot.

Sara’s full eyebrows raised then. Carol Bradford?

Yes! Did you know her? It saddened me to think that Aunt Carol had a full life here, and I knew nothing about it.

Yes, Carol was a dear friend. You must be the famous niece from Oregon. She spoke of you so fondly, and often. And when she came back from visiting, she always brought me a tin of marionberry tea.

I laughed, oh yes, she would always stock up on souvenirs before heading back.

Carol came in almost every day for a lavender latte. She also volunteered at the animal shelter with me and always knew how to crack a good joke. Sara let her laughter hang in the air for a moment, her eyes wistful. I’m so sorry for your loss.

Thank you. I’m sorry as well. I’m glad she had people here who cared about her. That means a lot.

Well, one thing I figured out quickly when I moved here is that people might not have that kind of open hospitality that southerners are known for, but they care deeply. Everyone in town knows each other, and we care about each other in our own way.

That’s really lovely. So you were new here once too? You seem to have made a lovely home here. I looked around the coffee shop, gesturing to it. This is an amazing place.

Thank you. It took some time. Sara paused for a moment, as if lost in thought, or maybe trying to decide how much she wanted to reveal. I moved here from Atlanta when I was twenty-one. Honestly, trying to get as far away from Georgia as I could. I had nothing going for me but some experience as a barista and a dream. I worked here before, when it was a tacky little place. Cool Beans, it was called.

She rolled her eyes and laughed, a rich sound that was contagious. I thought she must have seen some pain in her life too, but she looked so far away from that now. And I wondered if it was possible for me, too.

After a couple years of working a side job tending bar at O’Reilly’s, I had enough money to buy this place and make it my own. This is my fourth year as owner, and I finally feel like I know what I’m doing.

Oh, I assure you, you do, I said, after sipping the glorious coffee she made me. It was a perfectly balanced dark roast, deep in flavor but bright enough to drink buckets of.

Thanks! Sara’s eyes sparkled with appreciation and pride. So you’re planning on staying in town long term, then?

Oh, well, I’m actually not sure. As of now, yes, I’ve decided to live here for the time being. I needed— I stopped short, not knowing the honest answer to that. I just wanted a change and, as devastated as I am about Aunt Carol, she left me a blessing. Maybe it sounds silly, but it seemed like a sign or something. This was my path.

Sara eyed me for a minute. She looked a bit younger than me, but her eyes held wisdom as she smiled. I think that’s fabulous. And I can definitely relate. It’s how I ended up here, after all. Signs and symbols. I let out a deep breath and returned her smile. Are you planning on working in town?

Well, I actually have my own web development business. I design websites and manage a few on a monthly basis, so I work remotely, anyway. I never realized how freeing it was until I thought about moving here.

Sara’s eyebrows raised, and she sat up a little higher. Ooh, I’ve been wanting a real website. Maybe I can hire you? I have a simple one a former employee put up for me because I’m useless with technology. But it’s outdated and doesn’t have the right vibe.

I’d love to! I looked around again, mentally noting all the photo opportunities. I can make something really cool for this brand. It’s so cute.

Thank you so much. Sara’s eyes shone with happiness now, a sense of pride evident as she looked around her space, too. So you were having trouble finding the cottage, you said?

I nodded as I sipped. Yeah, what I have in tech prowess, I lack in directional capabilities. I swear the back roads have changed or something.

Ha! It’s no wonder, anyway. They actually did! The year I moved here, the Boltons had their whole property line redrawn because of some business about a century old contract. I don’t know the details, but I remember the whole town being up in arms about it.

That’s crazy! I remember the Boltons. He was the mayor, right?

Yep, the very same. Apparently, he had lost his reelection campaign and decided to go after the winner by taking his land. I heard they rerouted one road that passed through the farm because he refused to allow it to be used publicly anymore. So that’s probably where the confusion is, since Carol lived up that way. She smiled.

Plus, Millhouse is hardly even a proper road. It’s still never been paved, and a lot of these small roads used to be private driveways so they’re not on any online maps. She paused, a satisfied smile then gracing her face. I’ll tell you what, she continued, I have an old paper map you can use since I’m sure your navigation isn’t helping matters. I’ll mark the way there so you can find it, and I’ll stop by tomorrow evening with a bottle of wine and help you unpack.

Are you serious?

Sara looked affronted, but her eyes twinkled. As a heart attack. Come on to the back. And with that, I made my first new friend in Moon Harbor and felt a little more at home with my new-old town.

CHAPTER TWO

sam

The afternoon sun was high in the sky, shining off the deep blue water and giving the town that picturesque look everyone loved. I hated it.

It wasn’t like I hated sunshine so much, but the heat radiating off the pavement and the tourists clogging up the sidewalks were making my life a living hell. I didn’t want to sweat and I sure as hell didn’t want to bob and weave my way around throngs of people window-shopping on Harbor Street. But this was how life was in Moon Harbor. Summer in full swing meant ten thousand people descending on our little town and there was not much we could do to stop it.

Truth be told, we needed it, and I begrudgingly admitted that to myself as I nearly tripped over a little girl holding an ice cream cone horizontally. Her mom was too busy looking in the window of a shoe store to pay her any attention. I figured the ice cream had about ten more seconds on that cone before gravity did its thing.

Moon Harbor was a small town on the coast of Maine, cut off from the rest of the state by Cascade State Forest, which kept us pristine and mostly left alone for eight months out of the year. But when the weather got warmer, and people didn’t want to go to the more mainstream places like Kennebunkport or down to Cape Cod, they came here.

A lot of the town made most of its living off the tourist season, myself included. I sold my work in a few of the shops on Harbor Street, and I made most of my money during the summer months. But I still hated the crowds and the heat. I came home to Moon Harbor to escape both those things.

I slowed to look at the crowd inside Moonbeam Jewels, my sister Ellie’s store. I considered stopping in, maybe doing a little salesman routine for a minute, but as Ellie always liked to remind me, I knew nothing about jewelry and hated talking to people, so it would probably do more harm than good.

I was proud of my sister and knew she was having a hard time with the store. It had always been her dream to open her own place to sell her jewelry designs and other local art. After our parents died when she was a senior in high school, she seemed to have given up on that dream. Seven years later, she finally had access to the trust fund my parents left behind for her and after months of me goading her into it, she finally decided to follow her dreams.

She used her whole share of our inheritance to buy the old building and moved into the apartment up on the second floor. She renovated it as best she could and it was beautiful, both the shop and the apartment.

But by the time the work was finished, they had gone over the deadline. Opening it in the fall instead of June, like she planned, led to a rocky start since Moon Harbor mostly shut down in the winter. Without the tourists milling about, she had to get a part-time job as a substitute teacher to make ends meet. But Ellie was strong and refused to accept any help from me, no matter how hard I tried to give it. Sometimes I would leave some cash in her purse after stopping by for coffee, but always found it back in my house a day or so later. Ellie had a spare key and a mountain of pride.

I found her effervescent form through the window and watched her animatedly ringing up a customer. There was a line and several other people milled about browsing, so I tried to put my worries aside. I still did a silent prayer to whoever was listening for Moonbeam’s prosperity as I continued on my way.

A couple stores down, I narrowly avoided body-checking a drunk guy outside of O'Reilly's Pub. Instead of exchanging fists like I might have done in my early twenties, I kept walking.

Harbor Street was the Moon Harbor’s main drag for pretty much everything. Most of the East side was open to the actual harbor, though there were some buildings on the North and Sound ends that sat right on the water, like City Hall and the old Harbor View Hotel. The west side of the street was lined with red brick sidewalks, oak trees, and old buildings from the late 1800s, converted into restaurants and shops, making it a quaint destination for visitors with money to burn. About five years ago, there was a bit of a renaissance here and most of the shops and storefronts got an upgrade thanks to a gift from the