Page 62 of Hibiscus Heights

Kitty’s eyes lit. “That will be so cheerful and uplifting. Like the bright prints I’ve always worn here.”

“That’s what I had in mind,” Deb said.

“You’re very observant. I feel like I’m in excellent hands with you.”

“I can show you some ideas in a few days.”

As they descended the main staircase, Kitty said, “Crown Island has always been a wonderful place for kids. I wanted Teddy and Mason to experience it. Thank you for helping me do that.”

“It’s my pleasure. I love to see families making memories here.”

Kitty looked at her with a curious expression. “It’s a sweet place to raise children, I imagine. Insulated enough to feel safe, but close enough to the mainland for shopping and cultural activities.”

“That’s what we all enjoy here.”

“The last few years have been difficult for Grant and the boys,” Kitty said, confiding in her. “What with Nicole’s death and then the school bullies, it’s been hard for them.”

Deb was surprised and saddened by this. “That’s terrible. I hope this coming school year is better for Teddy and Mason.”

They walked through the remaining rooms, with Kitty pointing out features she loved and changes she envisioned. “I can just imagine filling this home with friends old and new.”

Kitty and Jock had been known for their summer parties. “I remember how much you enjoyed entertaining.”

“We loved having interesting people around.” After clearing the last step, Kitty turned to her. “And what about you? Are you seeing anyone special?”

The question caught Deb off guard. She’d been admiring the curve of the banister, imagining it draped with garland for the holidays. Just when she’d finally gotten her mind off Grant, last night came rushing back to her. But she couldn’t tell Kitty that.

Deb blinked, forcing a smile. “I have many good friends here on Crown Island.”

“I’m sure you do, but are you dating someone?” Kitty’s tone was warm but probing. “I know it’s personal, but Grant mentioned you were unattached, and I thought perhaps I might know of someone for you.”

Deb didn’t want to sound lonely or needy, not that it was any of Kitty’s business, though she was persistent. “Actually, I am seeing someone new.”

“How exciting for you.” Kitty continued her friendly line of questioning. “Is he a local? Who is he, and what does he do?”

“Matteo. He owns vineyards in Napa and Argentina.”

“How intriguing. And will Matteo attend the grand reopening with you?”

Deb told Kitty he would. That wasn’t entirely a lie. She’d planned on going solo to be free to circulate for business connections, but Matteo would be seated next to her at dinner.

A thought struck her. If Kitty mentioned this conversation to Grant, and he thought she was unavailable, maybe he’d stop looking at her with a longing she found increasingly hard to resist. He was leaving soon, after all. His life was elsewhere.

“I’ve heard it’s going to be the party of the summer,” Kitty said.

“That’s the plan. Ryan Kingston has poured millions into the renovation, and he’s sparing nothing for the grand reopening.”

They finished the tour on one of the lower patios, where doors opened to a deck that needed new railings but offered splendid ocean views.

Shading her eyes, Kitty asked, “What do you really think of the house?”

“I knew the former owners, and I’ve always loved it. Almost every room has an ocean view. The house should lend itself beautifully to your vision.”

Kitty smiled broadly. “Does that mean you’ll take the job?”

Deb bit her lip in hesitation. Working for Grant’s mother might also involve him and the boys. But then she thought of the Hunts, the couple that was so far apart on their aesthetic preference that one of them was bound to hate the outcome.

No matter what she did, it was a sure plan for disaster.

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