Page 69 of Captiva Book Club

The women exchanged impressed looks. It was another morning at the Key Lime Garden Inn, and once again Oliver had turned it into a culinary experience they wouldn’t soon forget.

“I hate to say this to you, Maggie, but this puts your scones to shame,” Chelsea teased.

Everyone laughed.

“I can’t disagree with you, Chelsea,” she responded.

Oliver plated enough for the three women, and they carried their plates to the dining room table. Oliver had already set up the carafes of coffee, as well as pitchers of orange and peach juice.

“How is it with Oliver cooking for you all, that you don’t gain weight?” Chelsea asked, digging into her waffle.

“I certainly do gain weight, I just hide it well under my clothes,” Maggie said.

“Where’s Paolo this morning? I didn’t see him in the garden,” Chelsea asked.

“He and Chris went to Sanibellia together. Paolo wanted to show him some of the new displays and updates to the garden nursery. After the hurricane, he made a few design changes and secured many of the wooden platforms that were ripped apart in the storm,” Maggie answered.

“I saw Becca walk down to the beach earlier. She’s doing exactly what she wanted to do on this vacation,” Iris added. “I think she’s starting to feel better.”

“I’m happy about that. This pregnancy has been tough on her, and her schedule doesn’t make it any easier,” Maggie said.

They continued to enjoy their breakfast, and when they were finished, Chelsea got up from the table.

“I hope you all don’t think I’m impolite, but I’ve got so much to do today. Steven is coming over tonight for dinner, and I still have some grocery shopping to do.”

Maggie smiled. “Go on, we don’t think you’re rude…much.”

Iris giggled, and Chelsea ignored her, carrying her plate to the sink.

“See you all later, and thank you, Oliver. That was amazing.”

“You’re very welcome, Chelsea. Have a great day,” he responded.

Chelsea’s list of things to do was long, but she decided to add one more important stop before driving to Jerry’s Market.

She went out through the back door and down into the garden. The beach, just beyond the inn’s path, brought her to the spot where Becca’s chair sat. Becca, however, stood at the edge of the water, dipping her toes in but not showing any signs of going for a swim.

“Hey, Becca!” Cheslea yelled.

Becca turned, waved, and walked back toward her chair.

“Good morning, Chelsea, what a beautiful Captiva day,” she said. “I never tire of it.”

Chelsea nodded, “I agree. I’m jealous I didn’t grow up here like you did.”

“Well, at least you’re here now, enjoying this little piece of Paradise.”

“I thought maybe you and I could have a talk,” Chelsea said.

Becca’s brow furrowed slightly, curiosity piqued.

“Of course. Is everything all right?”

Chelsea smiled warmly, motioning toward the chair beside Becca’s towel.

“Chelsea, you take the chair. I love sitting on the sand.”

“Are you sure?”

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