Page 81 of Captiva Café

There were no easy solutions, no quick fixes. The dinner with Lauren and Jeff would be just one step in what would likely be a long process of redefinition and boundary-setting. But for the first time, the issues were out in the open. The silent suffering, the unspoken comparisons, the careful presentations of perfect lives—those could begin to fall away now.

As the familiar silhouette of the Key Lime Garden Inn came into view, Maggie felt a renewed appreciation for the life she had built here. Not because it was perfect—far from it, especially with her mother's YouTube antics and the constant demands of the business—but because it was authentically hers. The choice she had made to honor her own needs after losing Daniel had given her the strength to face whatever came next.

Including helping her daughter find her own authentic path, separate from the shadow of her mother's life.

CHAPTER 29

One week later

Isabelle wiped down the counter for the third time, anxiety gnawing at her despite the beauty surrounding her. Through the front windows, she could see the charming outdoor seating area they'd created—wrought iron tables with sunshine-yellow tablecloths dotted the herringbone brick sidewalk, each accompanied by delicate white scrollwork chairs with plump pink cushions.

Framed photos of the recent discovery of historical significance hung behind the counter for all to see.

"Those chairs were worth every penny," Gretchen remarked, emerging from the kitchen with a tray of freshly washed mugs. "The estate sale on Sanibel was quite the find."

Isabelle nodded, admiring how the elegant curves and intricate spiral designs of the chairs added a touch of vintage charm to the space. "They're perfect. Everything looks perfect. It's just..."

"The menu?" Gretchen supplied, setting the mugs on their designated shelf with meticulous precision.

"The menu, the staffing, the fact that neither of us has actually run a café before." Isabelle sighed. "The grand opening is Saturday, and we have coffee, Maggie's scones, and Mrs. Conners’ brownies, Hellen McIver’s cookies and whatever Chelsea can put together. The Lawson sisters promised to add more of their pastries and cookies, but we need more variety than that."

"We'll figure it out," Gretchen said with characteristic practicality, though her furrowed brow betrayed her own concern. "One step at a time."

The door opened, and Isabelle looked up to see Iris and Oliver entering, their expressions bright.

"It looks amazing in here," Iris exclaimed, spinning slowly to take in the café's interior. "I can't believe how much you've accomplished in such a short time."

Oliver nodded his agreement. "The exterior paint color was inspired—the way it catches the light makes the whole building glow."

"Thank you," Isabelle said, attempting to match their enthusiasm. "We're just putting the finishing touches on everything before Saturday. We’ve got every kind of coffee specialty you can imagine, but the menu leaves a bit to the imagination. I guess it will have to grow with time."

"About Saturday," Iris began, exchanging a glance with Oliver. "We wanted to talk to you about something—or rather, someone."

"Oh?" Gretchen joined them, sensing the shift in conversation.

Iris took a seat at one of the indoor tables, motioning for the others to join her. "I have a friend—Cara Donovan. We met at a community cooking class a few years ago, and she's got real talent in the kitchen."

"She's been working as a personal chef for a few seasonal residents," Oliver added. "Gets rave reviews but hasn't had a chance at a permanent position anywhere."

Isabelle raised an eyebrow. "Not much restaurant experience then?"

"Limited," Iris admitted. "But what she lacks in commercial kitchen experience, she makes up for in creativity and dedication. She studied culinary arts online while working other jobs to pay the bills."

"The café is a big responsibility," Gretchen said cautiously. "We need someone who can handle the pressure, preferably someone who knows this business better than we do."

"I understand your concerns." Iris nodded. "But sometimes raw talent and passion are worth taking a chance on. She's eager to prove herself, and she knows this would be a learning opportunity."

"And you think that's us?" Isabelle couldn't keep the skepticism from her voice.

"I think this could be good for both of you," Iris said. "She needs a chance to prove herself in a real kitchen, and you need someone with fresh ideas who's willing to start small and grow with you."

"What does she have in mind for the menu?" Gretchen asked, her practical nature asserting itself.

"Why not ask her yourself?" Iris suggested. "She's on the island today—just give her fifteen minutes. If you don't think she's a good fit, no hard feelings."

Isabelle glanced at Gretchen, who gave a slight nod.

"All right," Isabelle agreed. "We can meet with her. But no promises—maybe a trial period at most if we like her."

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