Page 16 of A New Year In The Presidential Suite

Lori looked up to find Ann Sanders approaching.

“What a pleasant surprise to see you out here this early,” said Ann. “I love walking along the beach at this time of day. Where’s your friend?”

“His grandfather had a stroke, and Griff had to leave early,” Lori said, unable to hide her concern.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” said Ann. “You two looked as if you were having a fabulous time together.”

Lori kicked at the sand with a sneakered toe. “The party was lovely. I’m sorry it ended that way.”

“Me, too. Well, enjoy the rest of your stay here,” said Ann. “And please let us know if there’s anything we can do for you.”

“Thanks. I will.” Lori watched Ann jog away and knew why people loved The Beach House Hotel. The owners were two smart, caring women.

Lori noticed the president of the Neighborhood Association in the distance and jogged back to her room. She wasn’t about to let anyone ruin the beginning of the rest of her life.

Later, enjoying a sweet roll and coffee on her patio, Lori pulled out her kindle and started to read. At home at this time of year, she usually read in bed, cuddled under her duvet. But here, she could escape into her book while the chorus of tropical sounds filled the background.

Lori was startled by the ringing of her cell. Griff.

She answered. “Hi, did you make it home?”

“Yes. I’m at the hospital with my grandfather. The stroke is a mild one, but it’s a warning about the chance of others. I just wanted to thank you for the time we spent together at The Beach House Hotel. Maybe we could meet there next year, and I could make amends for having to rush away leaving you alone to celebrate the New Year.”

“I had an enjoyable time with you, too. I’m glad your grandfather is going to be okay. You were right to go home to check on him. Perhaps we’ll meet again.”

“Let me know how things go with you,” Griff said. “I know it’s been difficult.”

“I appreciate all the sweet things you did for me. Good luck,” said Lori, ending the call. There was no point in following through with any plans for next year. It had been a rare luxury vacation.

###

Now that she had only a few days left in Florida, Lori decided to spend time driving around the area, getting to know it, trying various restaurants, visiting different venues. It surprised her at first to realize that whenever she drove back to The Beach House Hotel, it felt as if she was coming home. Maybe because she’d been warmly welcomed, and Griff was part of the scene.

When it was time for her to leave the hotel, Lori told herself this new year would be different. She was ready to change her life.

###

After the plane swept down to the ground and rolled up to the gate at the Westchester County Airport outside New York City, Lori gathered her purse and carryon bag and waited with the other passengers to deplane. Lori had seen the landscape through the plane’s windows and shuddered at the thought of dealing with cold and snow after relaxing in warm air. But this was home and where her family lived.

When she walked to the baggage claim area to meet her sisters, Lori couldn’t help the smile that flashed across her face at the sight of them. Had it only been a week since she’d left? Flo looked ready to have that baby at any moment. Aurelia had an arm around her, as always the protective big sister.

When they noticed Lori, her sisters hurried forward to greet her.

Lori returned their hugs as enthusiastically as they gave them.

“How was it?” Aurelia asked as Flo said, “You look wonderful, a little tanned and much more rested.”

“It was fantastic,” said Lori. “Thanks to all of you.”

“So, tell me, did you find another man, a much younger one, to have dinner with?” asked Flo, giving her a penetrating stare.

Forcing herself to give nothing away about Griff, Lori shook her head. “Everyone was very pleasant. For breakfast, I liked to order room service. And for dinner, I ate at different places. I went back to Ken’s, a local bar and eatery, and the older gentleman and I ate together.” Lori hated not telling them the whole truth, but she didn’t want any grilling from her sisters.

“Well, you look happy, and that’s all that matters,” said Aurelia. “This is a new beginning for you.”

“Yes, I think so too,” said Lori. “This trip made me realize it was time to make a new start. She turned to Flo. “Any news on when the baby will arrive?”

“I went to the doctor last week and he’s thinking it will happen in two to three weeks. I’m ready,” said Flo.