Page 108 of Waves of Hope

Charlotte explained and then told her about the invitation for Savannah and the kids to join her on Eric’s boat.

“Okay. Brent can help handle the lines,” Brooke said. “And I wanted the chance to get to know Emma and Savannah better. They seem nice.”

“They are.”

“I’m sorry about Diana, but from what you’ve said, she was very troubled,” said Brooke.

“Yes.” Charlotte pushed away her gloom and gave Brooke a sly smile. “So, you and Eric? Anything special?”

Brooke shook her head. “I’m going to be like Livy and just have fun.”

“Fair enough,” said Charlotte. “I’ll stop teasing you.”

“It doesn’t mean if the right one comes along, I’ll ignore him,” said Brooke.

Charlotte raised her eyebrows. Seems Brooke’s had a change of heart.

###

Late that afternoon, Shane called Charlotte from the car as they were nearing the cove to tell her they’d be there soon. She got in touch with Savannah, who’d elected not to go on the sailboat. Together, they went to the Inn to wait for them.

When the car pulled up to the front of the Inn, Charlotte and Savannah moved toward it in tandem.

Shane climbed out of the front passenger seat and went into Charlotte’s waiting arms.

Savannah hugged both Henry and Austin. “How was it?” she asked softly.

“Surprisingly well organized,” said Henry. “Sophia called Diana’s lawyer, and he appeared. He said there was no problem in our knowing about the will and that he would handle the estate as requested. Sophia is to receive a large sum of money, which she certainly deserves. Other funds will go to charities that Ricardo favored, and the boys will receive some funds along with the house and all its belongings.”

“We’re going to sell it and most everything in it,” said Shane with determination.

“I talked to a realtor who’ll handle the sale when the estate is settled. In the meantime, Sophia has agreed to continue living there,” said Austin.

“The poor woman feels responsible for Diana’s death because she’d left Diana alone to visit family,” said Henry.

“Such a shame, the whole thing,” said Savannah. She went to Shane and Austin and gave them each a hug. “It’s okay to be sad, you know. Diana was your mother.”

Austin nodded, too emotional to talk.

Shane’s eyes filled, but he said nothing. Charlotte was certain a whole lot was going on inside him and took hold of his hand.

“I suggest we all relax,” said Henry.

“Livy and Holly are handling the cocktail hour,” said Charlotte. “How about coming to Gran’s house? I’ve made some extra hors d’oeuvres, and there are plenty of refreshments.”

“Thanks,” said Austin. “I’m going to change my clothes first.”

“Me too,” said Shane. “I’ll be back soon.”

Charlotte turned to Henry and Savannah. “I hope you’ll come too.”

“We will,” said Savannah. “Thank you. We need this family time together. Brent and Emma are sailing on Eric’s boat. They should be fine. I’ll text them both while you change and get comfortable.”

###

Charlotte was pleased she’d had plenty of experience hosting small groups in New York. She slid into the role, wanting to make sure everyone was comfortable and well taken care of.

Savannah seemed to sense her nervousness and made sure to compliment her. Even so, it was a somber group. Diana had affected them all.

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