Page 42 of Starfish Cottage
“Me too. It’s a change for the town. How will that change things for us?” Leena asked.
“More welcome wagon opportunities!” Rose rubbed her hands together.
Pearl nodded. “That’s right. More people will move in.”
“Before we get ahead of ourselves, maybe we should think about how we can help Chuck and Deena. You know, create opportunities so that the kids have a chance to see how they are right for each other,” Leena suggested, even though she’d bet against them staying together. Rose suspected her sour attitude against couples and the way she was always betting against them was just a front. Leena was really an old softy at heart but didn’t want anyone to see it.
“How about a town picnic? We need to celebrate,” Pearl said.
“Yes! Everyone could bring signature dishes,” Rose agreed.
Leena made a face. “I hope Maddie’s is better than what she brought to the last town meeting.”
Rose tucked a stray peacock feather into the side of her hat. “Let’s hope.”
“At least we know Gina will bring a fabulous pie,” Pearl said. “She’d really excelled at that. She needs to do something with it, though. I showed her an empty shop downtown that would be perfect, but she seems a bit hesitant.”
Leena cleared her throat and glanced around furtively.
Rose frowned. “What is it?”
Leena leaned toward them. “It’s just that I happened to see a check from Gina on Ellison’s desk the other day.”
“Really?” Leena’s daughter, Ellison, was a private investigator in town. She’d been a cop but had struck out on her own when she neared age fifty. “What would Gina need a PI for?”
“Beats me. I couldn’t ask. You know how tight-lipped Ellie is about her clients.”
“Very curious,” Rose said. “Could she be looking into something about that empty shop?”
“Why would she need to investigate that?”
“No idea. Anyway, it’s none of our business, and Dex is headed this way. I’d appreciate if we kept that little tidbit to ourselves.” Leena made a zipping motion across her lips.
“Gram! You all look fantastic.” Dex turned his charming smile on the ladies and kissed each of their hands, leaving them giggling.
“You’re such a charmer.” Pearl swatted him on the arm. “We’re glad you’re staying in town, but sorry about your girl.”
Dex shrugged. He didn’t look too sad about it, Rose noticed with satisfaction. “I think it was a long time coming. Shell Cove is my home and always will be.”
“I’m glad to hear you say that.” Rose kissed him on the cheek. “I selfishly am glad you won’t be far.”
“Me too.” Dex scanned the crowd. “Have you seen Maddie?”
“She was just here. Maybe over by the bar? I think I see Jules over there.”
“Okay, thanks. I need a drink anyway. Can I get you ladies anything?”
The three of them held up their full wineglasses. “We’re all set.”
“Okay, talk later.” Dex headed toward the bar.
Rose jabbed Leena in the ribs. “See, looks like you better brace yourself for losing that bet.”
Chapter Thirty-One
Maddie had danced, chatted, and even had a few glasses of champagne. It was great to celebrate with her cousins and the other townspeople she’d become friendly with, but something was missing.
She’d thought maybe Dex would show up, especially after Rose’s revelation. Maybe Dex wasn’t the type who liked these sorts of parties. Funny, though, before he’d made plans with Lorelei, he’d seemed excited about the party. Maybe he was in a funk about their breakup, or maybe they’d already made up.
