As she continued down the block toward the parking lot where she’d left her SUV, she recalled their conversation in the kitchen yesterday. She’d been surprised by how quickly they’d both enjoyed discussing the visitors. And oh, his smile! It had taken her by surprise and sent a thrill through her. But when they discussed Alana, the vibe quickly changed. And the way he studied her reminded her of when she was telling him about being a nurse—his intense expression had awoken something deep within her. She felt something powerful and new stirring, and she had no idea what to make of it.
The Coral Cove Library came into view, and Everleigh picked up her pace, hoping Quinn was at work. She entered the front door and moved through the large foyer until she reached the reference desk, where Quinn sat talking on the phone.
When Quinn spotted her, she held up her hand, indicating she’d be a moment or two. Everleigh meandered over to the periodicals area and flipped through an entertainment magazine.
“Everleigh!”
Quinn walked over and stood on her tiptoes to pull Everleigh in for a tight hug. “What brings you out here today?”
“I was just nearby and thought I’d stop in.”
“I got your text about the Realtor and her flowers.” Quinn clucked her tongue. “Talk about nerve.”
“I know.” Everleigh shook her head.
“Hopefully you’ll get some more offers soon.” Her friend suddenly snapped her fingers. “Hey, what are you doing later?”
“Just chores around the inn. Why?”
“Want to go to the beach?”
“I don’t know...”
“How long have you been back home now?”
Everleigh eyed her friend. “This seems like a trick question.”
“Just answer it, please!”
“Three weeks.”
“And have you been to the beach yet?”
“I walked the boardwalk today. Does that count?”
“Have you actuallysaton the beach with your toes in the sand?”
Everleigh sighed. “No.”
“Why not?”
“You know I’m not a beach person.”
“But you were raised at the beach, Everleigh,” Quinn said. “I know you don’t like the waves after what happened to you.” She frowned. “But you can still enjoy the view, right?”
“What are you getting at, Quinn?”
“Tiffany Davis from high school texted me earlier, and I was goingto send you a message anyway to let you know a group of us are getting together. We’re going to grill out, swim, and play volleyball.”
“Really, I...”
Quinn folded her hands as if saying a prayer. “Please come. It will besofun. And I bet you haven’t had a chance to relax since you got home, have you?”
Everleigh hesitated. “No, not really.”
“Then come. If you aren’t having fun, I’ll give you permission to go home, okay?”
Everleigh chuckled. “Fine, fine,” she said, finally giving in. “I’ll come, but I won’t swim.”