Page 23 of Cowboys at Coconuts

While the server freshened their chips, Paul sipped his margarita while studying his daughter. “I’m sure you realize the difficulties ahead.” He paused. “Even though Larry and Montana were presumed dead, they’re still legally married.”

Hope ran her fingers through her frizzy hair. “This is too much. This is something for Alex to handle—not me. I’m the weak one.”

“You’re not weak. You’re a strong, beautiful woman.” He reached for her hand. “Want me to go with you to Nashville?”

“Maybe. I don’t know. I can’t decide what to do.” Leaning back, she stared at the unknowing, happy patrons munching on Mexican food and realized they hadn’t placed an order beyond chips and salsa. After several seconds, Hope made a decision. “Thanks for the offer but I think Larry should go. He needs to see her and vice versa. In fact, seeing Montana might bring his memory back.”

Nodding, Paul said, “That’s actually a good idea. Are you okay alone with him? I mean, I know he raised you but he doesn’t remember you.” Reaching for his phone, he placed it on the table and scrolled his jam-packed calendar. Paul made a face. “I can clear my client meetings but not the court cases.”

Hope gave a half smile. “Thanks anyway. Maybe a road trip is what Larry and I need. Nashville is about six hours away. We can leave early on a Saturday morning—if I can convince him to go.”

“You’re taking this well,” Paul said.

“I’m still in a fog, but nothing surprises me anymore. May I have those photos?”

“Of course.” Paul peeked at his watch and grimaced. “I hate to eat and run especially after this bombshell, but I have a lot of work to do tonight before depositions early tomorrow.”

“All we ate were chips and salsa.” She laughed, then paused. “I can’t eat now anyway. Thank you for doing the undercover work, Dad. Maybe we’ll get to the bottom of this yet.”

Paul hugged Hope. “Thanks isn’t necessary. You’re the best thing to come into my life. I think you know what to do, but it’s your decision.” He patted the article. “If you decide you want me to tag along, I’ll find the time.”

“I love you, Dad.” After she got into her gray Honda in the parking lot, Hope leaned against the headrest.How will I convince Larry-Mac to go to Nashville with me?

Chapter 24

Practically dancing around the kitchen, Suzy said, “I’m so glad the boys invited us over for an impromptu barbecue. I can’t wait to hold baby Violet.”

Her husband, Ken, reached for the heaviest casserole dishes. “Let me carry that. You’re pregnant, remember?” He loaded the car with every potluck side dish imaginable, plus Jon’s favorite Sock-It-To-Me Bundt cake.

Examining the food to make sure she hadn’t forgotten anything, Suzy said, “I can’t wait to see all of them.”

Nodding, Ken said, “It’ll be a nice day. I wish Izzy had joined us.”

“She’s a teen. Teens like to be with their friends.” Suzy secured the food, and they drove toward Vanessa’s late parents’ house. “I’m still amazed how well the boys’ new marriage has worked out with Jon’s former high school girlfriend and their baby. Who would have guessed Vanessa would become pregnant at their prom, Jon would come out a year later and find the love of his life with Fernando?” Suzy grinned, “Thankfully, Vanessa and baby Violet seem to delight in their modern relationship.”

“It’s a unique arrangement but seems to work.” Ken stared at the road. “I wonder why they invited us over today.”

“We’re family. That’s why. It’s not a holiday nor birthday, so it’ll be relaxed and enjoyable.” Suzy winked at her husband. “I made your favorite pasta salad. I think you could eat pasta every day.” Laughing, she said, “You could never survive on the Keto diet.”

“Nope, I couldn’t.” He glanced at Suzy sideways. “Are you saying I need to diet?”

“Not at all. I’ll be the one on a diet after the twins are born.”

Rounding a curve, Ken said, “Twins. It’s still hard to fathom. How are you feeling today? Any morning sickness, babe?”

“Always morning sickness. Every darn day, unfortunately. Since I’m nearing my third trimester, the doctor thinks it’ll subside. Fingers crossed.”

Ken crossed his fingers in the air for solidarity. “I wish I could throw up for you.” Chucking, he said, “Not really, but I hate that you have to go through that.”

Rubbing her growing baby bump, she said, “It’ll be worth it.” When they pulled into the driveway, everyone rushed outside to greet them.

“Mama Suzy. Welcome!” Fernando opened her car door, eased her onto the driveway, and kissed both cheeks.

“Hi, Mom.” Jon held baby Violet in one arm and reached for Suzy with the other. Vanessa began carrying the dishes. “I’ll put the food inside.”

Once the food and condiments were placed on the counter or in the fridge, Fernando beckoned them into the shady backyard. “How do you like the new grill my husband bought?”

“Very nice.” Ken examined it as though he had never seen a grill before. The guys gathered around the grill as if it were one of a kind, Suzy and Vanessa sat in lawn chairs, and baby Violet held a rattler while perched on a quilt.

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