Page 19 of Saltwater Sweets
“That’s right. I must’ve left it there. I was a little distracted with the golfing and was trying to rush the day’s receipts into the system. I’ll look for it tomorrow before the town celebration.”
Deena’s smile faltered. “I am a little worried about the celebration. I hope spending the whole day with Cole and Sam isn’t going to be too forced. I’m still worried that Cole doesn’t like me.”
Deena looked so sad that Chuck instinctively gave her a hug. “Don’t worry about that. Cole was devastated when Angie died. They were very close. And even though it has been years, he probably needs some time to get used to the idea of me being with another woman. He held her out at arm’s length, his hands on her shoulders. You’re the first I’ve dated… and hopefully the last.”
“That’s so sweet.” Deena’s look of love melted his heart and vanquished any doubts he had about her.
“But to tell you the truth, I have the same concerns about Sam. I’m afraid I might have hurt her feelings by doing the work on the computer.”
Deena shook her head. “I don’t know why, because Sam has never been interested in doing the computer work at Saltwater Sweets. But I suppose she might need some time to get used to the idea of us being together for the same reasons. She was close with her dad.”
Chuck nodded. “All the more reason to make sure they see how happy we are tomorrow. Don’t worry. I know we can win them over. And we have the added surprise that will really bring all of us together.”
CHAPTER15
The town common, with its wide grassy area bordered by tall oak, maple, and pine trees, was bustling with activity when Gina arrived with her pies tucked into two triple-tier carriers the next day.
The tables were already loaded with dozens of homemade dishes. Those that needed to be kept chilled were set atop trays filled with ice. A few feet from the tables, several large charcoal grills sizzled and smoked, spicing the air with the mouthwatering smell of grilled meat.
On the other side of the common, games had been set up: horseshoes, cornhole, and badminton. Kids were running around, and adults were mingling. Gina found herself smiling at the festive mood.
“You brought so many!” Maddie exclaimed as she helped her unload the pies on one of the dessert tables.
Jules pitched in, too, putting the little mesh dome covers that Gina had brought over each one. Had she gone overboard by bringing six? Many people in town had brought dishes, and there were more than enough desserts for everyone. But she loved making them and wanted a variety.
“The apple is my favorite.” Dex eyed the apple pie with its perfectly browned crust glittering with sugar crystals.
“Keep your hands off until dessert!” Maddie nudged him good-naturedly.
“I like the chocolate cream.” Nick reached for the pie, earning an elbow to the ribs from Jules.
He laughed. “Seriously, Gina, you should go into business making these. I’d be happy to try to push a business loan through.”
Nick worked at the Shell Cove bank and had gotten them a loan for the Beachcomber. Maybe she’d have to resort to that, but she was really hoping not to get into debt. Though with the chances of finding Hugh diminishing, she might have to resort to borrowing money.
“Yeah, you should think about opening a shop.” Belinda Simms, from the town hall, had come up and was looking over the pies. “Best pies ever.”
“We could use a pie shop in town.” Cassie Fox, from Ocean Brew, wiggled her brows. “Just sayin’.”
“Remember what I said about your future,” Maddie reminded her.
Gina felt embarrassed with all the attention on her. “I do like making pies, but enough about me. I have to tell you everything looks great. You pulled off another fantastic event, cuz.”
Maddie’s smile widened. “Thanks. I like doing it.”
Dex put his arm around her shoulders. “She’s great at putting events together, isn’t she?”
“She is.” Gina refrained from making a face as the two exchanged adoring looks. She was happy that both of her cousins had found love, but she hoped theirs didn’t end up like Gina’s had. That probably wouldn’t happen. Nick and Dex weren’t jerks like Hugh.
“Oh look, there’s Rose, Leena, and Pearl.” Maddie waved at the three ladies.
Gina was glad when they started over toward them. She hadn’t seen the welcome wagon ladies in a few days, and at least she wouldn’t feel like a fifth wheel standing here with the two happy couples.
* * *
Rose’s heart swelled at the way Dex rushed over to give her a kiss on the cheek and take the potato salad bowl from her. He was such a sweet young man. Well, maybe not soyoung, he was over thirty, but Rose still thought of him as a boy.
She was surprised he’d torn himself away from Maddie’s side. The two had been inseparable lately, and she couldn’t be more pleased.
