Page 63 of Vacation Friends

She began strolling the dining area, searching each face as she did.

She walked the entire perimeter, but she didn’t see anyone that looked like Danny.

Had Adrienne been seeing things? Or had Danny ducked away, hoping not to be spotted?

Maddie had no idea.

When she was sure Danny wasn’t there, she returned to the spa.

Adrienne still appeared pale and shaky as Maddie approached.

“He’s not in there,” she told her friend.

Adrienne’s shoulders slumped with relief before instantly tightening again. “If he’s not at the restaurant, then where did he go?”

Maddie studied her friend’s face. “Are you sure you saw him?”

“I’m positive.”

Maddie pressed her lips together, unsure what to say. Finally, she settled with, “Then let’s keep our eyes open. You should let Brody know so he can be on the lookout as well. You could even talk to the resort’s security.”

“No! I don’t want to draw any unnecessary attention.” Adrienne let out a feeble laugh, almost as if she’d heard the paranoia in her own words. She blew out a long breath. “I want to do a good job with this event. I’ve heard about Josh’s reputation for firing people on a whim. I need this job.”

Maddie had heard about that also, from more than one source.

“I understand.” Maddie frowned. “And I’m sorry Josh is impulsive like that.”

She’d seen the trait in him before, and she didn’t like it. But Josh didn’t listen to her. He said that was the way things worked in the business world. A person had to be decisive.

Maybe he was right.

But that still didn’t mean Maddie liked it.

“I think I’m going to go lie down for a few minutes.” Adrienne stood and fanned her face. “Then I need to get ready for the concert tonight.”

“Of course. Do you want me to walk you to your room?”

Adrienne waved her off. “No, I’ll be fine. But thank you.”

Maddie hesitated a moment before nodding. “Let me know if you need to talk later.”

Adrienne paused before pulling Maddie into a quick hug. “Thank you so much for being a friend. I really appreciate it.”

Maddie hugged her back, glad she could be there for Adrienne.

The two pulled away, and Maddie watched Adrienne retreat. Then she turned, trying to figure out what to do next.

Her gaze stopped on Detective Kalani.

Just like yesterday, he headed straight toward her.

Dread pooled in her stomach.

What now?

“Ms. Waters.” Detective Kalani paused in front of her, his voice monotone.

“People are going to see us talking so much that they’re going to think we came here together.” Maddie crossed her arms casually as she tried to maintain her cool.

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