Page 73 of Hibiscus Heights

When Deb saw her parents at the adjacent table with old friends, she excused herself to visit them. Her brothers and their spouses were seated at other tables.

Bitsy Whitaker clasped her hands when she saw her. “Why, you’re a vision. I’m so proud of you, darling. Wilt, isn’t she lovely?”

Her father put his arm around her. “Don’t tell your brothers, but I think you’ve surpassed them.”

“Certainly in the class department.” Still, his words meant a lot to her, even if they weren’t quite true.

She touched her earrings. “Thank you for these. That was such a surprise.”

Wilt turned to Bitsy. “Did we give Deb a gift?”

“Oh, my,” her mother said, leaning in for a closer look. “You must have a serious admirer.”

“These aren’t from you?” Deb drew the card from her purse and showed it to them. “Did they belong to my grandmother?”

“Not that I know of.” Wilt stroked his chin. “Could have been your great-grandmother, too. They shared the same name, as you know. Both were real spitfires in their day.”

“That card looks quite old,” her mother said. “But you wear them well. I’m sure one of your admirers will speak up. Are you sure it’s not that handsome man seated beside you?”

“It wasn’t Matteo. We’ve agreed to be friends.” None of this made sense to Deb. “Let’s talk later.”

She returned to the table and slid into her chair just as Whitley made his way to the podium. He welcomed everyone and introduced Ryan.

Deb noticed how proud Ryan’s parents looked. Their eyes shimmered with love as they watched him speak. She could only imagine how much they had sacrificed. They had navigated a new country and culture to give their son a better life. He stood before them now as the successful man he’d become.

The crowd quieted as Ryan spoke. “Thank you all for coming as we celebrate our past and look forward to the next century at the newly renovated Majestic Hotel. More than a hundred years ago, visionaries built this hotel as a beacon of hospitality and elegance. Since then, thousands of people have cared for this hotel and its guests, and among them, my parents.”

While his parents dabbed their eyes, Ryan continued, “Tonight, we honor this legacy while launching the next chapter of the Majestic’s story. This renovation succeeded because of the dedication of every person who contributed their skills and passion. But most of all, it succeeded because we never forgot that hospitality is about bringing people together. This evening, and this entire renovation, is a testament to collaboration.”

The applause was thunderous. Pride swelled in Deb’s chest for being part of this group effort.

When the applause died down, Ryan spoke again. “I would like for everyone to help me recognize those who shared a vision and brought it to life.”

He called on each member of the team, and Deb stood when he called on her. The applause was immediate, and she acknowledged it with a dip of her head, her mysterious earrings brushing her neck.

Ryan extended his hands to his parents. “And to my parents, who instilled within me the understanding of service and the love of this fine hotel at an early age. Please welcome the heart of the Majestic family, my father, Patrick Finley, and my mother, Mary Kingston Finley.”

Tears welled in his parents’ eyes, and the applause for them from guests and staff alike was thunderous. April clasped their hands, and Deb smiled, feeling their pride and elation. The Majestic Hotel was family, and she was fortunate to share in that.

Just beyond Patrick and Mary, Deb spied Grant seated beside his mother. He caught Deb’s glance and smiled, lifting a glass to her.

She raised her hands. What could she do? He’d disappeared. And with the boys starting school soon, he would again. Could she handle seeing him only in the summer and maybe once during the winter holidays?

This can’t possibly work. Deb’s heart sank at the realization. Grant wasn’t just another one of the men she dated; he had stolen her heart once again.

During dinner, the conversation flowed smoothly with discussions about the island’s history, the challenges of historical preservation, and the economic impact of tourism. Deb relaxed next to Matteo. She didn’t have to impress him.

They began with grilled peach, prosciutto, and burrata. Next was a choice of fresh macadamia nut-encrusted mahi mahi, duck confit, filet mignon, or vegan handmade pasta. Everyone exclaimed over the charred Brussels sprouts with sweet Maui onions.

A selection of desserts was also served, including passionfruit cheesecake, miniature chocolate souffles, and hand-churned ice cream.

While people ate, Maileah took the microphone to announce the results of the hotly contested silent auction treasures. “Tonight’s auction winners benefit the island’s injured athlete fund and our local arts program. Every donation benefits the Crown Island community.”

As expected, the vintage surfboards had drawn spirited bidding, while the local artwork also attracted attention. Deb had bid successfully on a watercolor garden scene for her living room. She wanted a memento of this special evening and achievement.

After announcing the winners, Maileah said, “We invite you to dance, and be sure to stay for the fireworks.”

When the music began, couples moved onto the dance floor. Deb saw Junie and Knox swaying together, wholly absorbed in each other.

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