Page 27 of Sea Breezes at The Beach House Hotel

“He was holding onto the spinnaker, and his arms hit the life rail before he went over. I was trying to get back to him, throw him a lifesaver, when another speedboat driven by the Coast Guard went to Clint’s aid. I don’t know what would’ve happened to him if they hadn’t been right there. Both his arms are broken, and he was having trouble staying afloat.”

Nell clapped a hand to her mouth. Tears rolled down her cheeks.

“So, this was part of a smuggling scene?” I asked.

“Yes. It apparently happens more than one would think along the Florida coastlines,” Vaughn said. “We were just lucky the boat didn’t hit us.”

“How bad are Clint’s arms?” asked Nell.

“His right forearm has been broken in one place. His left arm is broken in two places. They’re operating now to set it,” said Vaughn. “The orthopedic surgeon can give you the medical details when you arrive.”

“It sounds awful,” I said.

“How is he going to be able to handle two broken arms?” Nell said. “One is bad enough.”

You’ll be able to discuss everything with the doctor, Nell. I’m very grateful for the rescue and the excellent medical care. But as you can imagine, I feel terrible about the accident.”

“Where’s the boat?” I asked.

“It’s at a dock near the Tampa Convention Center. It was towed there while l accompanied Clint to the hospital. Thank God for all the help we received.”

“I’ll say. You weren’t hurt?”

“Just some bruising on my legs,” said Vaughn. “When you arrive at the hospital, ask for the Orthopedic Trauma Center. It’s a 24-bed unit. I’m in the waiting area. I’ll meet you there.”

“We’re driving as fast as we can,” I said. “Be sure to keep yourself hydrated and get some food if you need it.”

“Okay,” said Vaughn. “Don’t worry, Nell. I’m staying right near Clint. The surgery may be over by the time you get here. He might even be awake to see you. We’ve been here for a while. I didn’t want to let you know until I knew what exactly to tell you.”

Vaughn ended the call, and Nell and I simultaneously let out puffs of worry.

“How’s Clint going to be able to handle his recovery?” asked Nell. “He won’t be able to use the computer or write for a while. And performing basic tasks is going to be difficult. He’ll have to stay in Sabal with us, where he can get the best help.”

She and I exchanged glances.

“Maybe some good will come out of this,” I said. “He won’t be able to fly back to D.C. tomorrow like Claudine wants.”

“No, even he will see that isn’t wise,” said Nell. “He and I had a chance to begin talking about our problems. Maybe Clint being forced to stay in Sabal will prove to be helpful to both of us.”

“What if he wants you to go back to D.C. to help him?” I asked.

“We’ll have to work something out because I’m staying in Sabal no matter what. It’s important for the kids and for me to have a choice.”

I didn’t say anything, but inwardly, I agreed Nell should have some say in her future. I just hoped they’d see the value of what they had together. But only time would tell.