Page 32 of Hibiscus Heights

She would miss Teddy and Mason when they left. Still, they were part of the summer crowd, and Deb understood the limitations to continuing friendships.

When she was younger, many of her friends had their hearts broken after their summer romances ended without a word.

Ghosted, as Maileah and Junie would say.

She ran her hands over her forehead, dispelling the memories.

Her stomach growled again, and she remembered she’d skipped breakfast to meet a man who specialized in antique refurbishment. Some of the original chairs were unstable, and while they wanted to keep them, they couldn’t risk a guest injury if a chair collapsed.

But she had to eat.

Deb picked up the phone again. “Hi, Kelsey. I want to place a lunch order, but I don’t need a table.”

“Would you like that delivered, or will you pick it up?”

Delivery was tempting, but she needed to step away from her desk. “Make it to-go, please.”

Walking to the cafe would help her shake off her frustration about the delays in surfboards, artwork, and furniture. If she cleared her mind, she could focus on solutions.

But not on an empty stomach.

Deb picked up her purse and left the executive offices. The hotel corridors were quiet this time of day, with most guests either eating, enjoying the beach, or exploring the island.

She’d been so caught up in the renovation details she’d barely taken time for herself lately. She missed her run with Duke again today, and he’d let her know he wasn’t happy about it.

As she approached the ladies’ room on the lower level near the cafe, lounge, and ballroom, Deb decided to freshen up. Her food probably wasn’t ready yet.

Inside, she found the lounge empty. She’d designed this space like a luxurious living room with a grouping of marine-blue chairs and blue-and-white striped sofas. Fresh tropical plants were thriving under dedicated grow lights.

She put her purse down, enjoying the respite she’d created here.

In keeping with the original design, she’d chosen new marble vanities and countertops, along with soft lighting that wasn’t too harsh but still bright enough.

In front of the large mirrors, a tray of complimentary items included hairspray, miniature sewing kits, and other personal care items. Women could touch up their makeup, make emergency clothing repairs, or nurse their babies in private.

She also suggested converting a neighboring supply closet during the renovation to add more women’s bathroom stalls. That had sparked an initial battle with Ryan.

This is a luxury resort for all guests, she argued.

Knox and Whitley supported her on the idea. And thankfully, when several women complained on social media about endless bathroom lines at a wedding reception, Ryan agreed.

Now, the marketing department touted these high-end features in their marketing for weddings and parties. To Ryan’s surprise, they’d won some bookings with their attention to detail for women. Magazines showcased the luxuriously decorated lounge and celebrated the extra facilities.

Deb knew small details often created a point of difference in the luxury hotel market.

Satisfied with how the lounge had turned out, she opened her purse and leaned toward the mirror, studying her reflection. Faint shadows appeared under her eyes. The stress of the grand opening preparations was wearing on her.

Deb dabbed on concealer and brushed her hair.

Just then, the door swung open behind her.

A woman entered, carrying herself with poise. Over her arm hung a canvas beach bag with a sun hat folded into it. Her brightly printed floral shift and turquoise jewelry looked well made.

The woman paused, smiling at Deb in surprise. “Hello, there.”

“Are you enjoying yourself today?” Deb asked, making pleasant conversation.

“It’s hard not to at the Majestic.” Large sunglasses obscured the woman’s face. She removed them as she approached the mirror.

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