Page 78 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

“That’s it. He didn’t want to harm his relationship with Reggie and certainly not with our daughter.” Rhonda took out a tissue from her pocket and dabbed at her eyes. “Angela still won’t take my calls, and Will doesn’t want me to go to their house until things have settled down.”

I waited a few moments, and then I said, “Bernie and I have discussed how to protect Lorraine from any harassment. We need her at the hotel to work if she’s willing.”

“Definitely. For Thanksgiving and the two weddings.”

“If Lorraine isn’t comfortable staying at the hotel, I’m willing to offer her, and Arthur, too, a place at my house. Vaughn has approved it, but neither of us wants to do anything that might cause friction between you and me. If you feel that having them stay with us would be like taking sides, so to speak, and you don’t like the idea, we won’t make the offer.”

“Aw, Annie, that’s so sweet. But as we’ve always agreed, Lorraine is part of the hotel family. She needs us to help her. This situation must have been a shattering experience for her. No doubt there will be reporters wanting to catch a glimpse of them. Will says Arthur will be allowed to state his case with the SEC and should be given a chance to do so.”

“Okay, then, I’ll call and make my offer. Heaven knows we need her at the hotel.” I rose from my chair, went to Rhonda, and gave her a big hug. “You are a fantastic person. I love you for many reasons, and kindness is one of them.”

“Oh, Annie,” said Rhonda, grabbing a fresh tissue and wiping her eyes. “We were always meant to be sisters, you know. I just think it took us a few years to find each other.”

Now, I felt the sting of tears and accepted the tissue box Rhonda handed me. I’d always wanted a sister, and I couldn’t think of anyone better for me.

While Rhonda left the office to talk to Bernie, I called Lorraine. She was hesitant at first to take me up on my offer, but after a brief conversation with Arthur, they both agreed it might be a smart move.

“We’ll come in two separate cars and maybe at different times in case the television news truck returns.”

“Okay, I’ll tell the guard at the gate to our community to look out for you. I’m going home now to get things ready for you. You’ll stay in the guest suite, so you can have all the privacy you need.”

“Yes, I love your house and its seclusion,” said Lorraine. “How can I ever thank you?”

I paused and said honestly, “By helping at the hotel as long as you feel comfortable doing it.”

“Deal,” said Lorraine. She let out a huge sigh. “I never imagined anything like this. Arthur is devastated.”

I ended the call and went to see Bernie.

Rhonda and Bernie were talking when I knocked on the door and went in.

“What’s the decision?” asked Rhonda.

“Both Lorraine and Arthur will stay at my house,” I said. “Lorraine has agreed to work at the hotel as long as she’s comfortable.”

“Thank you, Ann. It was the right thing to do,” said Bernie. “If Lorraine feels uncomfortable acting as hostess intermittently with the two of you on Thanksgiving, we’ll have Annette do it. Lorraine can help in the back of the house.”

“That sounds like a plan. Nell and her family were supposed to come for Thanksgiving. It turned out to be a good thing they had to cancel,” I said, thinking of life’s twists and turns.

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At my house to getready for our guests, Vaughn greeted me with a kiss. I quickly informed him of the latest news from Rhonda and what was going on with Lorraine and Arthur.

“They want to arrive in their own cars and will get here at different times, hoping no one notices. I’ve already told the guard at the gatehouse they’ll be coming.”

“Are Rhonda and Will okay with this?” Vaughn asked.

“Rhonda has agreed to it, and I’m sure she wouldn’t have if she thought Will would be upset by it. Angela still won’t take her call.”

“But it’s not Rhonda’s fault this happened,” said Vaughn, frowning.

“I think it’s a matter of divided family loyalty,” I said, “but that’s something they’ll have to work out.”

“It’s a beautiful day and is supposed to remain that way,” said Vaughn. “Do you think Arthur will agree to go sailing with me? I’d rather not stay inside acting as host.”

“I bet the fresh air will be enjoyable for him. I don’t know how much they’ll want to talk about the problem. I’ve assured them of privacy in the guest wing.”

“Okay. Robbie’s next door at Brett’s house,” said Vaughn. He pulled me close and stood with his arms wrapped around me.

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