Page 65 of Moonlight Feels Right
"Well, maybe you need to find out," Kaia said.
Chapter Nineteen
Maverick’s Bar and Grill was glowing like a lighthouse on the bluff, its patio strung with warm lights that bobbed in the ocean breeze. Emmalyn's steps slowed as she neared the bar Saturday night. It was so peaceful outside; she wasn't sure she was ready for a crazy night at Maverick's. But it was Liam's birthday, and everyone always showed up for birthdays, so she really needed to be there. But she'd had such an unsettling day.
Her phone suddenly buzzed, and her gut tightened as Ben's name flashed across the screen. "Hello? Ben?"
"I wanted to fill you in on what's happening with Jeremy."
"I have been wondering." She'd hoped to hear from Ben much earlier than now.
"I wanted to be able to give you as much definitive and helpful information as I could before I called."
"So there is helpful information?"
"Yes. It turns out the group your mother escaped from is heavily involved in smuggling guns and drugs. The commune is just a front for their criminal activities. While the members of the commune seem to live below the poverty line, the leaders have banked a great deal of wealth."
"That's ironic since they're so against materialism for everyone else who lives there."
"Well, this is just the start of a long investigation. The San Diego PD will be heavily involved, as the group resides in their jurisdiction. But the main takeaway for you is that Jeremy will not be released on bail. You and your mom are safe. If that changes, I will let you know immediately."
"Thank you so much, Ben. This is the best news."
"No problem. Are you at the bar?"
"Just about to walk in. Are you coming?"
"Working tonight. Have fun."
"Thanks."
She felt immense relief at the news that Jeremy was behind bars and the group was being investigated. It was ironic that Jeremy's attempt to get her mother back was what had finally gotten him arrested. Putting her phone back into her bag, she walked into the bar, feeling much more relaxed and ready to just enjoy herself.
As she walked past the weathered surfboard at the front door and into the bar, she was immediately enveloped in the warm, friendly, buzzing atmosphere. Old surfboards hung from the wooden-beamed ceiling, and black-and-white photos of legendary surfers covered the walls. The weathered wood floors had been worn smooth by years of sandy feet and dancing, and the salty sea air mingled with the scent of beer and the burgers being served from the kitchen. Maverick's wasn't fancy, but it had soul—a perfect reflection of their coastal community.
As she moved farther into the room, Brad waved to her from behind the bar, a towel slung over his shoulder like always. His brother, Tyler, was mixing drinks at the far end—his charm out in full force as he served drinks to a trio of attractive young women.
Kaia, Lexie, Ava, Madison, and Serena had snagged a table near the old classic jukebox that didn't actually play but was part of the vibe. They were nursing cocktails and catching up on gossip, while Liam and Gabe were at the bar, picking up drinks from Brad.
"We saved you a seat," Kaia said as she reached them.
"Thanks," she said, taking one of the three empty chairs at the end of the long table. "I thought you might be in the back room."
"It's more fun out here," Ava said. "Liam likes to be in the center of the action, and since it's his birthday…" She shrugged as she smiled. "Gotta keep him happy."
"Oh, please," Serena said, rolling her eyes at her sister. "Your fiancé couldn't be any happier. Liam is one of the most cheerful people I've ever met. It's a miracle that someone as sour as you could land someone like him."
"I sometimes think that, too," Ava admitted, accepting her sister's teasing comments with a smile. "We definitely didn't start out on the right foot when you accidentally forgot to tell me he'd be staying at your apartment while I was housesitting for you and taking care of Miss Daisy."
"I thought you needed someone to loosen you up, and it worked."
"I have to admit, you did me a favor," Ava conceded. "We are definitely opposites, but I think we're starting to rub off on each other, in a good way. Or maybe he's just rubbing off on me."
"Well, it would be nice if Liam would introduce us to some of his fellow hot Australian surfers," Kaia complained.
"That might happen next month," Ava said. "There's some big surfing competition happening, and Liam said some of his buddies are coming to town."
As the conversation flowed around the table, Liam returned with a tray of drinks, one of which he placed in front of her, a fruity concoction with an umbrella. He gave her a smile. "Brad saw you come in. He said you'd probably like this. It's a very light shot of tequila with a bunch of blended fruit."
