Forging Ahead

Would overcoming her fears help Hannah catch the handsome Dermot’s eye?

- Jill Crawford

Getting comfy in their usual banquette for the weekly quiz night at The Old Forge, Hannah gave her friend, Evie, a beseeching look.

‘So, will you go up if I win?’

Evie sighed. ‘You know I don’t mind. But isn’t it time you dealt with your fear of being the centre of attention?’

‘I am… I mean, I will,’ Hannah said. Seeing her friend’s face and knowing Evie knew her too well, she gave an embarrassed sigh. ‘I really will. I’m just not quite sure how. You know how nervous I get over stuff. About big groups of people. I wish I didn’t, but I do. I hate having all eyes on me. It’s embarrassing.’

‘Maybe all you need is something or someone,’ Evie paused, flicking her gaze meaningfully towards Dermot, the handsome landlord. ‘To give your self-confidence a boost.’ Hannah held up her hands in protest. ‘I’m not interested in Dermot.’

‘Sure you’re not,’ Evie chuckled. ‘That’s why you blush every time he looks at you!’ She snapped her fingers. ‘I know. Why don’t you ask The Old Forge for its help?’

It was well known around the village that if you had a problem, you made a wish by The Old Forge’s lucky horseshoe, and somehow it would find a way of sorting it out for you. You just had to ask. Whether it was folklore or real, nobody knew. But things did seem to work out for all those who’d admitted they’d made a request.

Hannah chewed her lip. She wasn’t sure if she believed the hearsay or not. But things were getting worse, so maybe it was worth a try? You were supposed to simply place a hand on the horseshoe hanging at the entrance, make your plea, and then wait for the magic to work.