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“I didn’t answer because it doesn’t matter. Your new cousins new wife is a pretty special girl, and if she likes that name, then I answer to it.” Gunner took the plane into the air. “That Jade Campbell is pretty special, too.”
Why would he say that?
Chapter 57
Jade
Ithanked Tommy yet again, then went and sat at my dad’s bedside. The only thought that I had was, how was I going to do this? After meeting his buddies and getting a glimpse into his past in the marines, I knew I had to get him better so he could have his buddies, his family, back. My cell rang in my pocket. By the time I fought my jean pocket to remove it, I got a glimpse of who the caller was.
I wonder what Mrs. Hawthorne wants. Darn, was I supposed to bring her to the island today?
My cell rang again. This time, when I looked down, I saw that it was Mrs. Hawthorne calling again.
“Hello, Mrs. Hawthorne,” I said into my cell.
“Jade, sorry to have called right back. I decided after I hung up that I should have left a message. I hope I didn’t disturb you,” she said.
“Not at all. I was just standing here watching my father sleep.” I walked away from the bed and sat in the recliner. “How can I help you?”
“Dear, how is your father doing?” she asked. “I’ve been thinking about him ever since Mr. Bond mentioned his old buddy named Campbell.”
“Believe it or not. They are, indeed, old marine buddies. Four of them came to see Dad today. Sadly, I’m not sure Dad knew it was them.”
“You’ll figure it out. Have you thought about my proposition?” she asked, then said nothing else.
“Truly, no I haven’t. I’ve had too much on my mind but, mostly, it’s just a crazy idea.” I hurried on. “I don’t mean to sound rude, but you must see how insane it is.”
“Alright, I won’t bother you with it any further, and I’m not insulted. It’s not for everyone, but it is a perfect answer for someone like you that needs a lot for her father and her family business.” She stopped talking then went on. “And I just did it again. So sorry.”
“It’s fine, I understand. What did you call me for?” I changed the subject.
“Actually, we need five prospective brides and one cancelled. I was wondering if you knew of anyone local that would be interested?”
“Wow, hmmm, I don’t know. Can you tell me more? It might help me think of someone for you.” I relaxed back into the recliner. “What does the girl have to do? And I’m very curious now, why five?”
“In short, we are having five prospective brides come to the island and spend a month getting to know the groom. He wants to be sure they will be compatible and, since he is very wealthy, it would be good for this to happen away from the public eye,” Mrs. Hawthorne explained. “One bride will be picked, if she is right for him, and the rest will go back to their lives. However, they will all get compensated for their time.”
“What will they be required to do on the island?” I waved to nurse Cathy when she came in for Dad’s vitals. “Will they be allowed outside contact?”
“Oh, my goodness, of course, it’s not that secretive. That would be awful to do to someone,” she gasped. “If she isn’t happy there at any time she can leave immediately, but there will be lots of fun activities going on.”
“Sounds like a dream vacation. Who wouldn’t do this?” I said, then laughed. “Okay, I heard it. I literally said no but, in my defense, I didn’t know it was this.”
“That’s true, we hadn’t gotten this far before. Each girl will get plenty of money to do with as they wish.” She cleared her throat. “Think it over Jade. I mean, in case you know someone.”
“Dad is waking up now. I need to go, but I will think about the single girls on the island.” I rushed off the phone before she could go on more about it.
“How are you today, Jade?” Cathy asked while she changed the IV bag. “Your dad sure is thirsty.”
“I’m sorry, what? He’s thirsty?” I shook my head confused. “He’s been asleep.”
“It’s just a nursing joke. I was referring to his IV bag being empty.” Cathy chuckled. “I shouldn’t joke like that.”
“No, it is funny. I was just off on another planet for a minute there.” I smiled. “I need to speak with Dr. Johnson. Is he in the hospital still?”
“He should still be at the nurse’s station. Go on, see if you can grab him.” Cathy kept working on the IV bag. “Grab yourself a coffee while you’re there. I just made a fresh pot.”
“You’re a lifesaver.” I walked to the door. “Hey Cathy, are you single?”
