Dedication

Henry Roth is a talented yet obsessive and reclusive writer of children’s books. His world is thrown into turmoil when his only friend and illustrator, Rudy, dies unexpectedly. Left alone and blocked, Henry must fulfil his contract to create a new “Marty the Beaver” adventure just in time for Christmas.

To help him meet the deadline, his publisher sends Lucy Reilly, an earnest and somewhat vulnerable illustrator in need of work. Their partnership starts off rocky. Henry’s sarcasm and anxious routines clash with Lucy’s open warmth. But when they retreat to a quiet beach house to work, something shifts.

Alone by the shore, surrounded by waves and salt air, their differences begin to soften. Henry’s rigid patterns loosen under Lucy’s gentle persistence, and she learns to see beyond his prickly exterior. Through shared meals, long discussions, and quiet moments of creativity, their bond deepens. Meanwhile, Lucy is tempted by her ex’s return, forcing her to confront what and who she really wants.

Rudy’s memory lingers, almost like a soft voice guiding Henry toward opening his heart again. Slowly, creativity blooms alongside affection. Henry and Lucy discover that healing can come through collaboration, and that love often starts when we risk being seen.