Page 40 of Sea Breezes at The Beach House Hotel

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Later that day, after Rhonda left to go to a school event with Angela’s children, I was surprised when Nell came into my office.

“Hello, good to see you,” I said. “What’s going on?”

“I just signed up the kids for school,” Nell said. “And I talked to Annette and Lauren to see about working in the hospitality department.”

“You’re not going to D.C. with Clint?” I asked her.

She shook her head. “Clint is upset about the new numbers Claudine came up with. He’s not going to leave Sabal until this situation is resolved.”

“Did you know Everett, Shuster, and Donnelly had to settle a lawsuit for $10 million?” I asked her.

Nell shook her head and plopped down into the chair facing my desk. “I knew that a legal matter had been settled recently, but not for that amount of money. I’ve never liked the people there.”

“Did you tell Clint that?” I asked her, needing to know.

“Yes, I have, but I eventually stopped. The disagreement was ruining our marriage, and I didn’t want to do that to the children. They adore their father.”

“Does Clint understand that?” I asked.

“He does. We’ve discussed it as well as several other matters. I’ve wanted to support Clint, and I’ve tried to do that. but I can’t pretend I think this is a healthy situation.”

“If you or Clint need any advice, you know that Reggie and Will would be more than happy to help,” I said. “They’re family, after all.”

“Thanks. Clint is meeting with Reggie tomorrow,” Nell said.

“Oh, good,” I said. “What can I do to help the kids get ready for school? Why don’t we take them shopping for new clothes?”

“I brought some with me, but that would be great. Bailey is very aware of fashion, and it might make it more exciting for her to have a couple of new clothing items to wear. And Ned is growing so fast, he needs a couple, too.”

“We’ll make it an exciting adventure,” I said.

“I’ll meet you back home,” said Nell. “Thanks, Ann. You’re always sweet and understanding.”

“You’re my daughter, and I love you,” I said, moving close to hug her.