Page 17 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

“Yes, she told us you and Slade work very well together,” I said. “Thanks again for including Vaughn and me in your party last night. It was fun.”

“It was our pleasure,” said Henry. “It’s always interesting to meet new people.”

“I saw that you and Caro got along,” I said, thinking how pleased Rhonda would be with me for mentioning it.

“Yes. She’s agreed to go on a date with me tonight. With my traveling and work schedule, I don’t do much personal socializing. But she seems the perfect change to my normal routine.”

“Yes, she does.” I wanted to ask a lot of questions, but Vaughn’s warning came to me, and I hesitated.

Henry studied the water and then turned to me. “I don’t know why I’m telling you this, but I feel a connection between Caro and me. I intend to find out what it is.”

“Sometimes, you just have to go with your heart.”

Slade joined us. “Glad to see you up so early.”

“I try to walk on the beach every day I can,” I said. “Thank you for inviting Vaughn and me to your pizza party. It was a great opportunity to enjoy the group.”

“Yeah, it was,” agreed Slade. “Amy and the others have gone to Disney World for the day. Thank God, it isn’t going to be too hot. That’s pure torture in the park.”

“See you later,” I said, realizing the time. “I need to get on my way. It’s going to be busy at the hotel today.”

I walked away from the two men, excited to tell Rhonda about my conversation with Henry. He seemed like an exceptional man—someone honest and kind.

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Later, I entered thehotel dressed for the luncheon. I loved seeing The Beach House Hotel used for worthy causes, and this occasion was one of my favorites.

I grabbed a cup of coffee and a sweet roll in the kitchen and went to the office. Rhonda was already there, studying the seating chart.

“Morning,” she said. “Dorothy called to say that there’s an empty seat at our table. Have any suggestions?”

“I do.” I then filled Rhonda in on my morning conversations with everyone and sat back as she nodded her approval.

“It makes me glad when we can help our guests find love. Love is what it’s all about. Right?”

“Right,” I said. “But Vaughn is worried about us interfering with others. He says bad things seem to come from it.”

Rhonda shook her head. “Only when Amelia Swanson is involved.”

I raised my eyebrows and gave her a steady look. “Slade and Henry are associated with her.”

“Okay, but she doesn’t know about the five women staying in the other house. That should be some protection, right?”

“I hope so,” I said. I hated to be such a worrier, but I didn’t like how I felt.

“Jane is excited to be attending the luncheon. She’s promised to buy a lot of raffle tickets as a thanks to you, Rhonda, for all the help you gave her.”

“That’s what women do, help one another,” said Rhonda. “She’ll love being there.”

We stayed busy with several small projects, and then we headed to the dining room for the event.

Jane was already there, in a lovely pink-linen dress, waiting for us.

“I’m glad you’re right on time because I want you to meet Dorothy Stern, who has placed several of her friends at a table. We’ll be seated with her, and you’ll have the chance to meet them.”

“How are you feeling?” Rhonda asked her.

“Fine,” Jane said. “Whatever will be, will be.”

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