Chapter 19

Chapter Nineteen

Isla

D arn Mel Brooks for not making his movie classic longer. I didn’t want it to end. It was by far the highlight of the weekend so far. There was still a long list of events for the evening. After a wedding rehearsal (which I thankfully didn’t have to attend), light supper would be served on the veranda and then there was a half-hour respite before festivities began in the karaoke room. A big, fluffy pile of nerves had settled deep in my belly (just above the popcorn and candy). Why did I decide to sing? I supposed it was to show Margaret that nothing she’d thrown at me had worked or intimidated me. However, I was, in fact, feeling intimidated and nervous. I just had to find a way not to show it.

I didn’t have nearly enough outfits for all the events. There was a more formal party, a ball of sorts, tomorrow evening, the night before the wedding, and I had no idea what to wear for it. I had the fancy dress Ella and I had picked for the wedding, and it seemed I’d have no choice but to wear it for both occasions. It didn’t sound crazy to me, but I was sure wearing a repeat outfit was a faux pas that would garner lots of disapproving looks from the other guests. Fortunately, I didn’t care.

Since I was singing a country song, I opted for a denim skirt, T-shirt and my short boots. They weren’t western, and they weren’t real leather, but they looked cute with the skirt. I added Layla’s gold hoop earrings to the look and then stared in the full-length mirror for the hundredth time. I rarely spent much time checking out my reflection, and I hated that this weekend had caused me to go back on the promise to myself to never focus on the way I looked in a mirror.

“I never, ever want to own a full-length mirror,” I said with a sigh. I sat on the edge of the bed to practice a few breathing exercises. They were once again interrupted by my phone. It was Aria.

“Hey, Ar, how’s it going?”

“That’s what I called to ask you. El mentioned you weren’t having a great time.”

Being the oldest, although only by fifteen months, Aria always saw herself in a parental role, especially after mom died. She tried so hard to be stalwart and a steadying force for her four younger sisters, who were falling apart at the seams. But at night, I’d hear her weeping into her pillow. It scared me when she wasn’t in control because, in truth, she was our rock.

“It’s been an interesting weekend. Luke’s mother is a—gosh, I can’t even think of a word for it. I can’t believe Luke turned out as well as he did, but I think his nannies and governesses had more influence on his character than his mom. Seems she was a rather hands-off parent. But I’m determined to leave this weekend with a few good stories and a new understanding of the world.”

“Well, those are lofty goals.”

“Not really. Frankly, I’m almost there.”

“Hey, La, no heartbreak, okay?”

“Nope. Heart still intact. I knew going into this that it was a business deal, and I’m going to stay pragmatic about the whole thing.”

“She said with the confidence of a woman who’s already suffering a major crush.” It was scary how perceptive she could be.

“Luke is handsome and charming and, admittedly, there’s very little not to love about the man, but it’s only two more days and then we part ways for good. So don’t worry about me. How are things in Whisper Cove?”

“Hot, humid and kind of dull without you. Oh, and Maryanne gave her two-week notice, so I’m down a server.”

“Well then, this is my chance to throw my server hat into the ring. That horrid woman at the cleaning company fired me because I took two days off.”

“I’d love to hire you if you think you can stand working under your bossy older sister.”

“Fortunately, I’ve had years of experience handling my bossy older sister. We can talk about it when I get back. Right now, I’m expected on the veranda for a light supper.” I said it with the best posh accent I could muster.

“Well then, can’t be late for that. Have fun … or at least try. We’ll see you soon.”

I did a shortened version of my breathing exercises and headed to the veranda.

There were a lot more guests than I expected for the light dinner. I assumed this was the precursor to the karaoke party, and most everyone would eventually make their way downstairs to the party room. I couldn’t see Luke’s tall head anywhere in the crowd. No sign of the beautiful Alex yet either. Maybe she was warming up her professionally trained vocal cords. I wondered what song she planned to dazzle the crowd with. Several people glanced my direction and then went back to their conversations. I might have been the topic of some of those conversations, and I was all right with that.

I looked around and breathed a sigh of relief when I spotted a friendly face. Hazel waved me over. She was sitting in a chair near a table. There was a blanket over her legs. A plate of food sat next to her.

I hurried over to her, thankful to have someone to talk to. Her slightly gnarled hand lifted from under the blanket as she reached for me. “You, my dear, are like sunshine on a dreary day amongst this crowd.”

I couldn’t stop myself. Her words had wound their way right around my heart. I leaned over and kissed her cheek. “That means a lot to me.” I blinked back a few tears as I pulled a chair around to sit next to her.

“Get yourself a plate, dear. Gretchen made some of her famous pasta salad and grilled butter biscuits.”

“It does look delicious. I’ll get some soon. Will you be singing tonight?” I asked.

She laughed. “Only if I want to scare everyone off.” She shrugged. “On second thought, maybe I should belt out a tune or two.” She leaned forward slightly. “Now I have a few good spies still in this group, friends who are more loyal to me than to my daughter-in-law, and I hear that you’ve been holding your own with Margaret. I knew you would.”

I felt my cheeks warm.

Hazel’s laugh was crinkly like the lines around her eyes. “As a young woman, I could produce a blush like that. My Lucas used to tell me, ‘Sweetums, when you blush like that, all I can think about is kissing you.’”

“What a romantic,” I said.

“He was that and more. We met on a Tuesday, and every Tuesday right up until a week before he died, he left a red rose on the nightstand next to the bed.” Hazel’s eyes sparkled as she spoke.

“He sounds absolutely dreamy.” Hazel had been so lucky. She’d found her prince, and he actually fit the part. He was kind and thoughtful and romantic.

“Mother, do you want a glass of wine?” a voice said from behind.

“No thanks, Jimmy. Have you met Luke’s girlfriend, Isla? She’s very special. This is Luke’s Uncle Jim.”

I turned in my chair. Jim was a slimmer, taller version of Marcus.

“I haven’t had the pleasure,” he said dryly. “Nice to meet you. I’ll get you that wine, Mother.”

Hazel frowned as he walked away. “My sons used to be full of life and joy. I don’t know why they let that part of themselves get away. Lucas and I never lost our love for life.” Her smile returned. “Now here is someone who enjoys life a little too much.”

“Learned everything I know from you, Grandma.” Bryan leaned down to give his grandmother a kiss. Luke’s younger brother and I met only briefly on the first day. We hadn’t spoken since.

“Bryan, do you know Luke’s girlfriend, Isla?”

Bryan turned toward me and nodded. “We’ve met. I was sure Mom would have scared you off by now. Wouldn’t be the first time she sent someone running for the hills.” Bryan glanced around. “Speaking of Luke, where is he?”

“I haven’t seen him. Since we’re staying in rooms with different zip codes, we don’t meet up that often,” I said.

Bryan laughed. “Different zip codes. I like that. By the way, you are really rocking those boots.”

I pushed my feet out a few inches and stared down at the boots. “Thanks. They’re my lucky song boots … I hope.”

Bryan was nice looking, but not nearly as handsome or tall or muscular as his brother. He had blue eyes and a sort of mischievous, impish grin. He was wearing a hooded sweatshirt and board shorts, as if he was about to dash off to the skatepark.

“Cool, so you’re going to sing tonight, eh? How about you, Grandma?”

“I think I’ll spare your mother’s guests the horror. By the way, I haven’t seen Rachel.”

Bryan motioned across the way. “I spotted her and David having a somewhat heated chat over by the gazebo.”

His mention of David reminded me of the salacious theory that had popped into my head earlier. Of course, it was just that—a theory. “Well, I’m off to get some food.” Bryan patted his belly. “Can I get either of you anything?”

“I’m fine.” Hazel looked at me in question.

I was no longer thinking about the pasta salad and biscuits. Luke had walked out on the veranda, and Alexandria was glued to his side as they laughed about something. She was wearing one of her slinky cocktail dresses and sparkly high heels. I hated that seeing them together produced such a gut-wrenching reaction.

“I’m good, thanks,” I managed to sputter.

Bryan whistled in Alex’s direction, and she waved and rolled her eyes as if she thought his reaction silly, only it was obvious she loved it. I felt a small twinge of relief from the ridiculous mix of emotions I was feeling when Luke’s gaze caught mine and he smiled. It was the kind of smile you exchanged with someone you knew well, someone you shared secrets with, someone who meant something. At least that was how I interpreted it.

Luke was instantly pulled into a group of men that included his father and uncle. They seemed to be discussing something important; however, it was hard to tell because they always looked dour. Alex joined the men, and they all fell over themselves greeting her for a few minutes before she strolled off to join Margaret and her mother. I could almost hear the three women’s conspiratorial whispers across the veranda.

“Why don’t you get yourself something to eat, Isla?” Hazel said. “You might as well at least enjoy the food. Heaven knows the company is terrible.”

I glanced toward the buffet table. The line was still fairly long. Bryan had cut in front of everyone. He plucked olives out of the salad and tossed them in the air to catch in his mouth as he perused the rest of the fare.

“That boy is twenty-eight going on thirteen,” Hazel mused. She also caught that I’d been thrown off by the entrance of the gorgeous couple. They looked nothing short of spectacular together. Darn it. Hazel patted my arm. “She’s pretty, but she’s got nothing on you, dear.”

I smiled at her. “That’s kind of you to say.”

The crash of a plate falling on the floor momentarily grabbed everyone’s attention. Bryan had dropped his plate of food.

“My Bryan is so clumsy,” Hazel quipped.

Everyone turned back to their conversation, and two of the waitstaff ran over to clean up the mess. Bryan stood there frozen to the spot for a second, then his face lifted and his expression made me sit up straighter. The mischief and smile were gone, and his eyes bulged in fear. He reached for this throat and then stumbled away from the table.

“What on earth is he up to?” Hazel muttered.

“Choking,” I blurted. “He’s choking.” Everyone else stood nearby in confusion, not understanding what was happening. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Margaret marching angrily toward Bryan, no doubt ready to scold him for clowning around. I reached Bryan just as he was going into full panic mode. His face was turning red, and he flailed his arms as he desperately tried to get air.

I circled behind him just as his arm swung back. His elbow shot right into my cheek. I sucked in a sharp breath and shook off the painful vibration in my head. I regained my composure and wrapped my arms around him. He struggled against my hold at first and then seemed to realize I was there to help. I rolled my hand into a fist, tucked it under his rib cage and pulled it in hard with my other hand. He was a lot bigger than me, and when he fell forward, my feet lifted off the ground for a second. People had gathered around, and Luke had reached us.

“What can I do?” he asked urgently.

I had no time to give directions. My sisters and I had had emergency first aid training when Aria opened her café. I’d practiced on a dummy, but this was my first live victim. I shook my head, pushed one foot back to get more purchase on the ground and jammed my fist in and up into Bryan’s rib cage. Nothing. I repeated the motion. I heard a cough and a sputter and sighs of relief all around us. Bryan fell to his knees, bent over with his hands on the ground, as he tried to catch his breath.

It started as a small clap somewhere in the distance, and soon everyone was clapping and cheering. Luke walked over and pulled me into his arms for a hug. I could have stood in that embrace for a long time if there hadn’t been dozens of people standing around watching us, including a certain beautiful woman in a slinky dress who didn’t look all that impressed.

Luke leaned back to look at my face, and the look of genuine concern tugged at every one of my heartstrings. “Your cheek. We need to get you some ice.” He took hold of my hand. The smiling onlookers nodded their approval. Some even said things like “well done” and “hero of the day” as Luke led me to the doors. I felt slightly dazed as my boots tapped the floor of the long corridor that led to the kitchen. His grip was firm, protective, and I didn’t want him to ever let go.

Gretchen was at her desk when we walked into the vast kitchen. The caterers had taken over the worktables and stove. They were in the midst of party food production. Gretchen twisted around and lowered her reading glasses. “Lucas?” She hopped up when she saw me behind him. “What happened?” She hurried over to the freezer and pulled out a bin overflowing with ice. She laid out a kitchen towel on the counter, filled it with ice and wrapped the cubes neatly in the cloth.

“Really, I’m sure it’s fine,” I insisted as she handed the ice pack to Luke.

“Sure, it’s fine if you just left a cage match,” Gretchen mused. “I’m going to assume that didn’t happen.” She looked at Luke for an explanation. He was busy trying to find the best placement for the ice.

I winced as the cold, hard pack pressed against my tender cheek. I took over and held it in place. The worry hadn’t left his expression. “Really, it’s just a bruise,” I said. “But thank you.”

“Isla just saved Bryan’s life,” Luke blurted.

Gretchen’s chin dropped. “What? How?” She reached over and patted my unbruised cheek. “See, I knew you were special the second I met you.”

Luke smiled at me. “Yeah, she gets that a lot.” He turned back to Gretchen. “Bryan was choking, and no one noticed or paid attention. Everyone just thought he was being—you know—Bryan. But Isla rushed over to help him. I guess he was swinging his arms in a panic and—” He looked at me for an explanation.

“His elbow got me before I could get a grip on him. I’m just glad I noticed him grab his throat. That’s what alerted me that he was in trouble.”

The kitchen door opened. Hazel shuffled in, a yellow shawl draped around her slightly hunched shoulders and a tissue clutched in her hand. She didn’t say a word but walked right past everyone and headed straight for me. Her thin arms lifted and went around me. I put down the ice pack and wrapped my arms around her.

Hazel sniffled as she dropped her arms. She placed a shaky hand on my good cheek, the way Gretchen had seconds before. I placed my hand over Hazel’s for a moment. Her expression grew sterner. “Now if my daughter-in-law, or, for that matter, my son, so much as frowns at you, I want to know about it. Promise?” Her soft, easy smile returned.

I nodded. “You’ll be the first to know.”

Then Hazel turned to Luke. She pointed at him. “I’ve never known you to be anything but brilliant and caring and intuitive, Lucas Greyson, but it seems to me you’re missing something incredibly important, and she’s standing right in front of you.”

With that, she turned and shuffled out of the kitchen.

“Well,” Gretchen said with her hands on her hips. “I’ve never seen anything like that in all my many years of working in this house.” She lifted the ice. “Here, keep this on the cheek. I’ll make you some of my special vanilla almond tea. Oh, and I made some miniature dark chocolate tarts that I’m dying for you to try. They’re a new recipe, and I need an expert opinion.”

Luke cleared his throat. “Right, I guess you’re in good hands, then.” He looked at me for a long moment, and it seemed he badly wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words. Instead, his fingers lightly trailed along my arm, leaving plenty of heat behind, then he left the kitchen.

Gretchen hurried off to get the tea, and I pressed the ice against my face. A big bruise on my face, just what I needed for my singing debut.