Page 23 of Hibiscus Heights

She wondered how far that bit of gossip would go. Maybe that would slow the well-meaning people in her life. She loved them, but she was tired of people asking why she’d never married or had children.

As if those were solely her decisions. For one of her friends, being child-free was a conscious choice Deb respected, though her situation was different.

Feeling exhausted, she patted her thigh for Duke to follow her to the bedroom.

6

“Special delivery,” Deb called out.

Balancing an iced mocha java for April and trying not to spill it on her white dress, she opened the back door to the Crown Island Historical Society.

April looked up and smiled. She was with a customer.

The new Historical Society occupied a former dance hall on the hotel’s property. Every time Deb visited, April had added or changed the decor or merchandise mix. This time, Deb noticed crystal-accented ceiling fans circulating the ocean breeze from open windows.

Deb was impressed with how April had taken advantage of a favorable lease rate negotiated before Ryan acquired the hotel. She’d also raised donations for the renovation, which Deb had overseen for her. Her friend was living the life she’d dreamed of now.

Deb’s heeled sandals tapped on the original wood floor as she made her way toward April and a woman who was making a purchase.

She placed the iced coffee on the table behind April.

“Don’t go anywhere,” April said. “We need to talk.”

Deb had a little time before she had to meet David and their potential new clients, so she waited, gazing around the welcoming space. The enlarged windows she’d selected for April flooded the space with sunshine. New artwork by local artists lined the walls. April had added walking tours with audio recordings, available to rent for a modest donation, as well as other locally crafted gifts and souvenirs.

Deb’s favorites were the fresh beach candles and fringed patio umbrellas. April had placed one over a table and chairs on the walkway in front with a sign that read, Handcrafted Umbrellas Now on Sale!

Smart display, Deb thought.

When April finished ringing up the customer’s purchase of a Crown Island historical guide, she picked up the cool beverage, her face shining with excitement.

“Thanks for the coffee. Rachel told me your date was incredible last night. What’s this about eloping?”

“I was only joking about that,” Deb replied, surprised that her sister-in-law was already spreading the word. She told April about Matteo’s ex-wives and children and how he split his time.

Looking surprised, April sipped her coffee. “Sounds complicated.”

“I’m used to it. At our age, everyone has a past.”

“Guess that applies to me, too.”

“You were always a prize,” Deb said. “I’m sure our meeting was more of a business deal to him. He wants to pitch his wine to Ryan, and he saw an opportunity. I can’t fault him for that because his wine is excellent, and he believes in it. Plus, he has a lot of people to support.”

April sighed in disappointment. “What makes you think that’s all it was?”

“Because that’s essentially what he said. But he was interesting, good looking, and very well mannered.”

“Since when don’t you like that?” April expelled a puff of air. “Remember when you told me to update my style and go for my dreams?”

“You were starting a new chapter in your life. I’m hardly in the same situation. In my case, I just keep writing the same chapter, and I know how it ends, all too well.” That reminded Deb of one of her favorite songs. She hummed as she picked up a candle.

April shook her head. “When did you become so cynical?”

“Ouch.” That comment hit Deb hard, especially from her closest friend. “I call it being practical. I’ve seen a lot more than you have. And frankly, I’m happy on my own. I don’t know why you and Rachel are so concerned about my personal life. And that goes for Ella, too, although I know she has good intentions.”

April arched an eyebrow. “If you’re so happy by yourself, why are you still agreeing to meet men for a glass of wine after dinner?”

Good question, Deb thought. “You know how persistent Rachel can be.”

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