Page 72 of Sea Breezes at The Beach House Hotel

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

Before I went to the hotel, I drove back to my house to let Vaughn know about the family’s plan. I hoped he wouldn’t be hurt by Nell not wanting to accept money from him. It was, after all, Vaughn’s financial success that was Clint’s reason for going to work for a new company and investing in the project to earn more money. A little competitive, a bit immature maybe, but genuine.

Vaughn was in his office going over some paperwork when I walked in, Cindy at my heels.

“Hey, you! What are you doing here?” asked Vaughn, getting to his feet.

I went over to him for a hug and pulled up a chair. “I wanted you to hear this from me before anyone else tells you.”

Vaughn listened quietly as I told him about Rhonda’s loan and Nell moving into the new house earlier than planned to get the interior fixed up before Clint saw it.

“Why didn’t she come to us for the money?” asked Vaughn.

“I think she wanted to keep the immediate family out of the situation,” I said.

“Even though she considers Rhonda family?” Vaughn said.

“There’s a bit of separation there, but yes, Rhonda’s family and our own will always be closely tied,” I said. “What do you think of the plan overall?”

Vaughn grinned. “I like it. It’ll be a great way for everyone to show their excitement about having them live here.”

“Timewise, it will work,” I said. “Plans are moving really fast at this end. Nell should be arriving soon, and after all the paperwork is completed, the work on the house will begin. The home inspection has already been done. Now, we know that no major investments are needed. However, Nell wants to make a few upgrades.”

My cell rang. Liz.

“Hi, honey. What’s up?” I asked her.

“I was just leaving to pick up Nell from the airport, but I got a call from Gabe’s preschool to say he isn’t feeling well. They want me to come and get him right away. Will you go to the airport for Nell for me?”

“No problem. I’ll be pleased to do it. It’ll give me a chance to talk to her.”

“Thanks, Mom. I’m disappointed it won’t be me, but I need to take care of my baby.”

“Of course. I’ll keep in touch.” I checked the time. “I’d better head out now.”

“You’re picking up Nell?” said Vaughn. “I’d go with you, but I have a community theater meeting to attend.”

“As I told Liz, this will give me a chance to talk to Nell to see what else we can do for her.”

We kissed goodbye, and I headed to Tampa.

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Tears stung my eyes as I drew up to the pick-up curb and saw Nell standing there with two suitcases, looking around eagerly.

I beeped my car horn, and when she saw me, she smiled and waved.

“Surprise! I’m here to pick you up instead of Liz. Gabe isn’t feeling well,” I told her as I got out of the car to help her with the luggage.

“I hope it isn’t serious,” said Nell, hefting the larger suitcase into the back of the SUV.

“I’m sure he’ll be fine.” I gave her a hug. “Welcome back to Sabal. We’re very excited about your plans.”

She frowned. “Dad, too?”

“He understands why you prefer doing this your way, but you know how happy he would’ve been to help. Between you and me, your father still feels terrible about Clint getting hurt on his boat.”

“It was an accident,” said Nell. “Clint knows that.”