Page 6 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

“Being here at the beach at this time of day is one of my favorite things,” I said. “Grab hands and follow me into the water. You’ll see exactly what I mean.”

Caro took my hand and Amy’s, and I led them into the water’s frothy edge.

“Okay, close your eyes and simply stand here breathing in the salty air. Let your body relax as you take in the sounds around you. Listen to the birds, and feel the water tug and pull back at your feet in a rhythm as old as time.”

Amy let out a long sigh, and Caro did the same beside me.

While they remained quiet, I let my thoughts drift. One of the reasons I was so happy here was because it was how I first connected with Vaughn. I didn’t know these women well enough to ask about their personal lives, but I hoped they’d find comfort here too.

“It’s so peaceful,” murmured Caro. “I’m so excited to be here. I just had a feeling we all should come.”

“Yes. I want this time to be peaceful for all of us,” said Amy.

“It’s time for me to go,” I said. “Enjoy yourselves. I hope to see you all later.”

I stepped away from them, envious of their long-term friendships, and was again glad for what Rhonda and I shared.

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Later, in the office, I filled Rhonda in on my conversations with the women.

“Thanks for telling Jane about Dr. Perkins,” said Rhonda. “I know she’ll help in any way she can.” Though Rhonda had a lot of money from winning the Florida lottery, she’d invested wisely and continued quietly providing funds for charities and good causes.

“The five women seem awesome together, but each has a story. I wonder how it’s going to affect their stay. Secrets are bound to come out.”

“It could become a problem. I know how difficult it is to keep a secret,” said Rhonda.

“We’ll see how it all works out,” I said. “I thought we should walk down and welcome the two men to the other guesthouse. We must ensure their stay is perfect with them working for Amelia.”

“Right. Let’s look over the notes Bernie gave us,” said Rhonda. “Slade Hopkins and Harry Watson both work for Amelia writing speeches and papers. Amelia says Slade is the optimistic one, and Harry is the realist, which is why they work together so well. They’ve just returned from a trip overseas and need to work on reports and policy papers for her. She says she wants them to have a good working vacation.”

I couldn’t help chuckling at the “working vacation” idea. I respected Amelia for so many reasons. One was for the seriousness with which she tackled her job. She should be president, not vice-president of the country. Maybe one day she would be.

“The men sound interesting,” I said. “Let’s go welcome them.”

“Yes. It could be important PR for us,” said Rhonda. “Besides, I love a beautiful day like this.”

We left the office and walked down the private path to the houses. I sensed a bit of homecoming when I saw the first house, which had once been mine before I sold it to the hotel. It had been a rundown caretaker’s cottage when I bought it. But renovation had made it a charming three-bedroom home with a private pool, perfect for occupancy by those who could afford to pay for it.

Rhonda stopped. “You know, this might be an opportunity to improve my matchmaking skills. It certainly worked last time.”

“Seriously? You’re talking about matchmaking using two men we haven’t met yet?” I couldn’t help chuckling. Rhonda was convinced that every couple who’d recently become engaged at the hotel was because of her matchmaking ability.

Rhonda nudged me playfully. “Go ahead and laugh. You’ll see.”

“First, we’d better meet these men. And if you’re thinking of involving one of the women staying next door, you must admit you don’t know them.”

“I’m just sayin’...” said Rhonda, taking my arm and leading me toward the house.

We knocked on the door and waited.

A trim man who looked to be in his forties with a touch of gray at the temples of his dark hair and wearing round, horn-rimmed glasses opened the door.

“Yes?”

“I’m Ann Sanders, and this is my business partner, Rhonda Grayson. We’re owners of the hotel and want to welcome you and make sure you’re comfortable.”

“We understand you came in late last night,” said Rhonda, giving him an appraising look.

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