CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY ONE – THE NEW PUB DOWN THE STREET

At The Rusty Anchor, Charlotte wiped down the bar counter, her mind still swirling with thoughts of Richard and their recent reconciliation. Tony, the cook, emerged from the kitchen, his apron stained with various sauces. "Oi, Charlotte," he called out gruffly. "You hear about that new place opening up?" Charlotte looked up, curiosity piqued. "New place? What new place?" Linda, who had been arranging glasses nearby, chimed in cheerfully. "Oh, you haven't heard? There's a new pub opening just down the street. The Golden Mug, I think it's called." Tony snorted. "Fancy name for a pub if you ask me." "Really?" Charlotte raised an eyebrow. "When did this happen?" Linda shrugged. "They've been renovating that old building on the corner for weeks now. Didn't you notice?" Charlotte shook her head. "I guess I've been... distracted lately." "Aye, we've all noticed that," Tony grunted, giving her a knowing look. Charlotte felt her cheeks flush slightly. "So, what do we know about this ne