Volume 2

As he waited for lunch, he watched the ocean and hoped to find an answer to his message. Perhaps a new friend from far away, across the ocean, or someone from France where Grandpa was born , he thought. Time for lunch, his mother finally called. Then she convinced Willie to go with her for a drive after they ate. Willie had a worried look on his face. Don t worry. If someone finds your bottle, Grandpa will be here, his mother said quickly. In the early afternoon, Mum and Willie drove beside a beautiful beach and reached the nearest village. After visiting some souvenir shops and a bakery, Willie wanted to go back home soon and hurry to his usual beach by the ocean. What if somebody already found the bottle, but he didn t want to be his friend? Just then, Mum s mobile rang. Hurry up, in the car!, she shouted. Willie watched her smile. He knew it was something good, but his mother didn t say a word. Grandpa waited for them in front of his Variety Shop with Ruby. Willie! Here s his telephone number Someone found your bottle! , his sister Ruby shouted. Willie was surprised: My bottle? Someone found it? Yes, he did. He s waiting for your call, she said. Who? , Willie asked. He was confused. Someone found your message near here this morning, Grandpa said. Near here? , Willie asked anxiously. Just phone, Grandpa said. A FRIEND IN A BOTTLE 63