Chapter 24

On competition day, Felix is uncharacteristically clumsy and anxious, clinging to superstitions like his old McInnis Seafood hat. The group drives to Tyne Valley, eats at the community supper, and heads to the arena, where Lucy notices how casual the event is and how out of place she feels in her dress.

Inside, Felix is greeted constantly, revealing his deep local ties. Ray McInnis—Joy’s father—greets him warmly, recalling Felix’s junior shucking win with pride. Lucy watches Felix mingle with friends and admirers, sensing his year-round life on PEI that she doesn’t share.

Joy arrives as an official timer, and her easy rapport with Felix and Bridget surprises Lucy. Joy warns Felix about a potential setup and later asks Lucy for peony advice, emphasizing goodwill. Bridget admits she and Joy have been texting, adding to Lucy’s sense of being outside the loop.

During the grading contest, Lucy studies Joy and wonders if Felix has considered rekindling their relationship. Felix describes community as his motivation and explains that Ray mentored him; he worked for the McInnis family for nearly seven years and chose to leave after the breakup to move on. Their families’ overlap made civility necessary.

When Lucy quietly asks about Joy, Felix counters by asking if she’s jealous, catching her off guard. Before she can respond, Bridget points Felix to the staging area as shuckers assemble. Felix leaves to prepare, his look suggesting he understands Lucy’s conflicting hopes and fears.