Page 25 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

I laughed. “We’ll see how things go, but as Rhonda would say, there’s a lot of opportunity for her matchmaking skills.”

Talk turned to Robbie, Liz and Chad, and the triplets. I loved how caring Vaughn was about all our children. I loved him for many reasons, but this one was near the top.

“I love you, Ann,” said Vaughn. “I’ll call when I can. Let me know how things go with the approaching storm.”

“I will. Love you too.” We ended the call, and I curled up on the bed, feeling very alone. When he was home, Vaughn filled my life.

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The next morning, Igreeted Liana, kissed Robbie, and left the house for a walk on the beach. This was an important time for me, and even though I had opportunities to visit the beach later in the day, the privacy at this time was precious.

I hoped to see Jane on the beach so I could ask about her health. I understood she didn’t want her friends to worry, but they were bound to find out.

I walked onto the beach and searched for anyone I knew. I saw Jane right away talking to Brock Goodwin. My heart dropped. I wondered what he’d say to Jane and hoped she’d heed our warning not to mention anything about her stay with us.

I trotted in their direction and smiled when Jane beckoned to me. She seemed eager to end her conversation with Brock. At the sight of me, Brock dropped his shoulders and looked ready to slink away. I knew then he must have been pumping Jane for information.

“Morning, Jane,” I said. “Hi, Brock.”

“I’m glad you’re here,” said Jane. “Ready to take that walk we promised one another”

“Yes, I’m sorry I’m a little late. Let’s go.” I took Jane’s arm, and we walked away from Brock.

“Thanks. I don’t like that man,” said Jane, unable to suppress a shudder. “He’s not anyone I want to spend time with, and I certainly don’t want him to know anything about me and my friends.”

“Keep it that way. How are you feeling? Are you still sore?”

“I’m fine. The initial pain is abating. That small incision is nothing compared to the other treatment I’ve had. Heather noticed I was being careful with my left arm and asked me what was going on. I had to tell everyone that I found a lump and had a biopsy. I told them what Dr. Perkins had said about it being something like a cyst and not cancer. But still, the thought of another bout of it was upsetting to all of us.”

“You’re so lucky to have such steadfast friends. Is everyone enjoying their stay?”

“Yes, indeed. Amy says she’s enjoying the attention Slade is giving her, and Caro has fallen for Henry in a big way. And he seems crazy about her. They remind me of how my husband and I acted after we met. It was like we just knew we were to be together.”

“That’s so sweet,” I said.

“Yes,” said Jane. “It was a match made in heaven, though I didn’t realize it would be for such a short time. Still, I remain true to the memory.”

“Do you think the relationship between Caro and Henry will last beyond this vacation?” I asked. “It’s been only a few days since they’ve met.”

“I think it’ll last,” said Jane, giving me a steady, warm look. “Lord knows Caro deserves it. Her ex-husband was cruel to her. This is the happiest I’ve seen her in years. I understand that Henry has been engaged before but never married. This would be a phenomenal beginning for each of them.”

“The Beach House Hotel is a romantic location for a wedding,” I said, loving the idea of Caro and Henry being married here.

“There you are,” said Amy, joining us. “Jane, we’re thinking of visiting the Everglades today. Are you game for going on an airboat?”

“Sure,” said Jane. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”

“You’ll like it,” I said. “Have an enjoyable day.”

“You and Rhonda, please join us late this afternoon,” said Amy. “I have a feeling there will be bubbles tonight.” She winked at me, and I realized that today must be when she ordered champagne for the group.

“Okay, that sounds like fun,” I said. “I’ll tell Rhonda.”

“Great,” Amy said, putting an arm around Jane as they walked away.

As I headed back to the hotel, I stopped and stared at it. It sat like a gorgeous pink flamingo next to the beach. Its tiled roofs and stucco exterior hid the luxury inside. It still amazed me that I was part owner of this beautiful property.

I moved aside as a duo of joggers headed my way, and then I walked to the back lawn surrounding the hotel’s pool area. There, I breathed in the salty air and listened to the sounds of guests on their patios or balconies or to those swimming in the pool. Rhonda and I wanted the hotel to seem like a home to our repeat guests, and there was an aura of a warm welcome about the hotel that couldn’t be faked.

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