Brides at Coconuts (Coconuts Series)

by Beth Carter

  Cole nodded. “That’ll be a party, all right. How soon should we do this?”

  “How about next weekend before the weather turns cold? I’ll get busy on the menu and buy the groceries, plates, cups, and napkins. Sound good?”

  “I like how you think, New York. It sounds perfect. Now, what are we goin’ to eat tonight? I’m starvin’. Want me to grill somethin’ fancy like steak and some kind of special sauce? What do you call it?”

  “Aw, now you’re in my territory. There are several sauces—au jus, peppercorn, Bordelaise, horseradish, and—”

  Cole snorted. “I was thinkin’ more like A.1.”

  She burst out laughing. “You’re right. Keep it simple.” Grinning, she said, I was actually hoping for hobos again like we had in the woods last year.”

  “Hobos it is. Much easier than steak, blackened salmon, or bacon-wrapped asparagus.”

  “I’m impressed, Cowboy.”

  “I’ve gotta keep up with you, New York.”

  Cheri reached for her phone. “Before we get busy, I’ll text my friends about the party.” Cole did the same. After both of their phones blew up with favorable responses, Cole leaned closer and tipped up her chin. “Now, where were we?”

  Chapter 34

  While waiting for Izzy to answer the Skype call, Suzy rubbed Maggie’s back. At the same moment, Matthew spit up on her new, silk, violet pajamas she had bought to honor Violet since she missed her granddaughter so much. She attempted to wipe the liquid with a tissue while holding both babies in one arm.

  Ken took one of the twins as Izzy’s image appeared on the screen. “Hi, Iz. Long time no see.”

  “Hi, Dad.”

  Suzy waved and jostled Maggie while Ken held up Matthew. “Meet your new little brother and sister.”

  “Half brother and sister, but yeah, okay. They’re cute.” Izzy appeared as interested in the babies as she would be a calculus test.

  Suzy tempered her anger. “How’s Hollywood? How’s school?”

  “Right, Iz,” Ken said. “You never call anymore. Are you making new friends?”

  Izzy crossed her arms. “What is this? A firing range? Geeze. So many questions.”

  Ken’s lips formed a straight line. “Izzy, we’d like to know how you’re doing. You’re far away and we have limited contact. Is your mother home?”

  “She’s at work.”

  “So, you’re alone?”

  “I’m not a child, Dad.”

  Ken and Suzy exchanged glances as one of the babies wailed.

  Izzy snorted. “Gee, that sounds like fun. How do you enjoy being parents of babies at your age?”

  Suzy bristled. “We aren’t exactly old, Izzy. We love it, don’t we Ken?”

  “All except for the late-night wake-up calls.” He grinned as he kissed Maggie’s pink cheek. “So, are you doing your homework?”

  “Dad.”

  Ken finally took a forceful tone. “Iz, if you aren’t going to be forthcoming, I’ll call your mother and find out. I want to make sure you’re keeping up with your schoolwork.”

  “Okay, okay. I’m having a little trouble with biology, history is boring, and algebra sucks.”

  “Now, we’re getting somewhere. Maybe I can help you via the Internet.” Ken peered closer to the screen. “You know I’m a history buff. I can suggest some good books. Interesting books. And I made killer grades in math.”

  “Good for you.” Izzy sighed. “I didn’t inherit those genes. I might take you up on that, but for now—” She glanced away from the screen as someone knocked on the door. “Sorry, gotta run. I’m going to Venice Beach.”

  “With whom?”

  “A friend.”

  Ken’s brows knitted together while he Googled images of Venice Beach on his phone.

  “Gotta go, Dad. I’m late. Bye.”

  Ken watched as her image disappeared. He turned to Suzy. “What has happened to my sweet daughter?”

  Suzy bit her lip to keep from laughing. She was never sweet. Not once. “I’m sure she’ll be careful.”

  Before the sentence left her mouth, Ken texted Izzy to remind her to wear a lifejacket if she planned to get in the water. He threw his phone on the couch. “I’m fixing a scotch. Want anything?”

  Suzy glanced at the oversized wall clock. “It’s a little early, hon, but okay. I’ll join you. I’ll take a glass of merlot.”

  Chapter 35

  At work, Alex texted her friends and asked if they could meet at Coconuts. Everyone was busy but she persuaded them into coming by for an hour.

  Suzy rushed inside first while simultaneously plucking a yellow sweater out of her purse.

  Cheri and Hope arrived and ordered drinks. The Happy Hour pace had picked up and it took Gus longer than usual to get to them.

  Alex turned to her friends. “I know we’re all busy this week. I can’t wait for Cole’s party, by the way. I hope you’re going to give us directions.”

  Cheri turned several cocktail napkins over. “I’ll draw a map. Soggy Bottoms is about forty-five minutes away. It’s easy to find. It’ll be casual. It’s an impromptu party.”

  “Those are the best kind.” Suzy frowned. “Sorry we can’t make it. The twins are too young to bring and too young to leave with a sitter.”

  Alex stared at Suzy. “Reason 101 not to have kids.”

  “They’re totally worth it, Alex. You’ll see someday.”

  “Yeah, right.”

  Suzy glanced at her watch. “Ken is probably getting an ulcer about now. I can only stay for one drink.”

  No one seemed to notice Hope didn’t comment on the party as she slyly reached for a map Cheri had drawn.

  Gus finally appeared with their cocktails. “Sorry, ladies. Busy tonight. I brought your usual so you wouldn’t have to wait.”

  He left among several “thank yous” and “cheers.”

  Suzy sipped her merlot. “How’s it going with Tony? I haven’t heard you mention him lately.”

  “About the same. The usual back and forth nonsense, especially if it has anything to do with his awful ex or little Joey.” Alex shrugged. “He has been busy on some cold case. He also mentioned something about getting a new partner soon.”

  Hope slid a lime inside her drink. “What’s his name?”

  “Who knows?” Alex sipped her wine. “He said the chief is being his usual mysterious self.” She brightened. “Tony said he’s hoping for a K-9 partner.”

  “A dog?” Suzy asked.

  “That’s what canine means, silly. Yes, a police dog. Tony loves dogs and thinks that would help little Joey show more interest.” Alex sighed. “Joey is still having a rough time after their divorce, is moody, and his nasty mother doesn’t want me anywhere near him. We did manage to go to batting practice and he pretty much hated every moment.”

  Hope sucked in her breath. She and Tucker had gone to the batting cages as well but it must have been on a different day.

  Alex shook her head. “I hate all of Tony’s baggage. I really do.”

  “Maybe he’s not worth it,” Hope said. “Remember that pep talk Suzy and I gave you about Tony?”

  “Yeah. Numerous times. Save it.” Shrugging, she said, “Who knows? If his new partner isn’t a canine, maybe it’ll be a hot guy who doesn’t have baggage.” Alex put her hand over her mouth. “Did I just say that? Whoops. How are the babies, Suzy Q?”

  “As precious as ever.” She yawned. “They’ll be even cuter when they sleep all night.”

  Alex grimaced. “Better you than me. What’s going on with you, Cheri?”

  “Let’s see.” She ticked off her fingers. “I got a horrible write-up by a pretentious food critic in the Times, rehired my former hot-tempered Irish chef, and Julio—remember
him at the cake-decorating competition last spring—”

  Hope’s eyes bulged. “The one who was your family’s chef when you were a kid?”

  “The hot one.” Alex winked. “I remember him.”

  Cheri shook her head. “Apparently, my former pastry chef thought he was hot too. They got caught having sex in the kitchen of Fifth Avenue Catering.”

  Suzy and Hope gasped.

  Alex roared. “That’s a new one.” She stared at the socialite. “I think you’re forgetting something. When I was at the grocery store checkout, I spotted none other than you on the cover of-”

  “Oh, God. I know. That damn rag almost ruined my relationship with Cole.”

  Both Suzy and Hope said they missed seeing it and asked what happened. After Cheri explained, the women leaned forward. “Is everything okay now?”

  “Yeah, we got past it but it wasn’t an easy discussion.” Cheri ran a manicured finger across the rim of her cocktail. “I’ll have to win back Cole’s trust since I didn’t come clean early on.”

  “I can only imagine. And having it splashed publicly is something I’ll never relate to. Relationships are—” Hope stopped talking as everyone faced her. “Not that I know anything about relationships.”

  Alex winked. “For a minute there, I thought you had news, Hope.” Turning toward a darkened corner, Alex wrinkled her nose. “My intern is playing with fire.” The women swiveled in her direction.

  “Is that your intern?” Suzy asked.

  “Yep and—” Pointing with her wineglass, Alex said, “That’s Sean, Tony’s hateful cop brother. I can’t stand that guy but he is married, and to Tony’s ex, no less. Hannah’s bank president father would have a coronary over this.” Alex winced and turned away as the couple canoodled in a back corner booth. “They’re getting really bold coming out in public like this.”

  Suzy, Hope, and Cheri drained their drinks and reached for their purses.

  Alex held up her hands. “I know. I know. Everyone’s busy. Thanks for giving me an hour of your time.” She threw her arms across her friends’ shoulders. “I’m in a bitchy mood. Sorry.”

  “Don’t forget about the party,” Cheri said. “It’ll be fun.”

  ~ ~ ~

  Alex noticed Tony’s empty car in her driveway and spotted him on her front porch. Arms crossed, he said, “About time you got home. Where were you?”

  She was truly glad to see him. “Hi, stranger.” As she stepped closer, she said, “I thought you were a detective. You can guess where I’ve been.”

  “Coconuts?”

  “Yep.” Deciding not to mention Sean and Hannah for now, she put her arms around Tony’s waist as he trailed kisses down her neck. Moaning, she tugged on his hand. “Let’s go inside unless you want to give the neighbors some strip tease action.”

  He grinned. “That might be fun.”

  “Or not.” Alex glanced at her nosy neighbor across the street. “That old biddy is probably watching out the window right now.” She fished in her purse for her house keys. “Come in. Maybe the Tony and Alex show will air tonight—if I can remember the channel.”

  “It has been a while.” He smiled a crooked smile. “I’m in.”

  Disrobing on the way to the bedroom, Alex and Tony both left a trail of shirts, pants, and shoes. She bounced back on the silky comforter while he piled on top of her. Kissing her eyelids, neck, and trailing down her stomach, his breathing quickened—until his phone rang. “Dammit.”

  “Don’t pick up,” Alex said, as she rolled onto her side and stroked his broad shoulders.

  “I have to. Maybe it’s nothing.” Tony listened for a few seconds, said he was on his way, and hung up. “There’s a fucking armed robbery at a convenience store down the street. Shitty timing.”

  As they gathered their clothes in the hallway, Tony stepped into his pants, and said, “By the way, I found out I’m not getting a canine.”

  “Really? Too bad. You would have enjoyed a police dog. So, who’s your new partner?”

  Tony shrugged. “Chief is still playing coy. He probably knew I’d Google the guy and find all kinds of reasons why we couldn’t work together.” Tony chuckled as he holstered his gun. “Chief knows me too well. Gotta run. See ya soon.”

  “Yeah, see ya,” Alex said to the closed door. I hate his damn job.

  Chapter 36

  Glad she had been forced to come completely clean to Cole, even if it stung at first, Cheri attempted to concentrate on work. She scrolled through a new foodie site online and wondered if she should start a blog or possibly write a cookbook. Nah, I don’t have time with my catering business. But I’ll make a mental note for the future.

  Her phone trilled breaking her concentration. She didn’t bother glancing at the screen. “Mom?”

  Chuckling, the person on the other line said, “It’s Cole.”

  “Sorry I didn’t bother checking the screen.” She leaned back and propped her feet up. “Hi, cowboy.”

  “Hey, little pony. I’m gettin’ excited about the party. It’ll be a real shindig. I called to see if you need any help. I’ve got the music, moonshine, burgers, and hot dogs handled.”

  Cheri smiled into the phone. “You’re on it. I’ll take care of the rest of the food. I’ll bring some wine for my friend, Alex. Maybe I can find some lanterns to string on the porch. I can’t wait.”

  “Sounds like a plan. I’ve got another call comin’ in. See you soon, New York.”

  Cheri had a jolt of energy after Cole’s call and emailed prospective clients to discuss her catering business. She contacted The Vandivort Theatre and a downtown comedy club. Tying her tennis shoes, she decided to go for a run. When she returned, she checked her email and was surprised to see requests to bid on a black-tie event at the Vandivort and hors d’oeuvres for the comedy club.

  “That was fast. Maybe that stupid National Enquirer article will actually help my business.”

  Chapter 37

  Since their previous Coconuts visit was shortened, Cheri texted to see if her friends were available for a quick, last-minute get-together.

  Within an hour, the foursome took their usual seats. Cheri talked animatedly about Cole and the upcoming party. “I’m really excited about the outdoor bash. I hope you guys are. Cole’s amazing. So different from anyone I’ve ever dated. You’ll meet some of his friends—Wyatt, Sawyer, and”—she made a face—“Jade, his ex-girlfriend.”

  “At least I’m not the only one with ex problems.” Alex elbowed the New York socialite. “I noticed you wore a plaid shirt tonight. What’s next? Cowboy boots?”

  “Maybe.” Cheri winked. “What’s wrong with cowboy boots?”

  “I’m sure they have designer ones,” Suzy said. “Have you looked for a pair?”

  Blushing, Cheri said, “I actually found some at that store you like, Alex.”

  “T.J. Maxx?”

  Cheri nodded. “Yes. They’re brown leather with turquoise beading. I can’t believe they sell Sam Edelman and Carlos Santana shoes at a discount. I used to buy them at Nordstrom. I’ve been shopping in the wrong stores.”

  “Told you.” Alex grinned. “Those fancy boots will look right at home on Cole’s farm.”

  Cheri’s cheeks reddened. “Haha. At least I’m trying.”

  Gus appeared with menus. “Hungry, ladies?”

  Suzy reached for one. “I’m starving.”

  “Me too,” Alex and Hope said.

  After studying the zebra-print menus, the women ordered stuffed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, hummus, veggies, and pita chips.

  Hope groaned. “Do we always have to get healthy food? Why can’t we order burgers and fries for once?”

  “Go ahead,” Suzy said.

  Hope patted her belly. “I lost one pound last week. I’m
sticking to my non-diet.”

  Alex wagged her finger. “You’re beautiful just the way you are. I don’t know why you worry about your weight.”

  Shrugging, Hope said, “I get tired of being the big girl. Just once, I’d like to be the skinny girl.”

  “You’re way too hard on yourself.” Suzy waved Gus back over. “I’ll take a burger and fries, Gus.”

  Cheri said, “Me too.”

  Alex sighed. “Cancel our previous order. I’ll eat that crap too. Damn the diet.”

  “I love you guys so much.” Hope handed her menu to Gus.

  After they devoured the burgers, Alex popped the last French fry in her mouth. “Mmm. Delicious. We should have burgers more often. Now about that country thing, Cheri. Tell us more.”

  Hope swiped the last of her ketchup with a fry. After Gus cleared their empty plates, he chuckled. “It looks like the burgers were terrible.”

  “Awful.” Alex winked. “Don’t ever serve those to us again.”

  Asking if they wanted refills, everyone shouted, “Coffee” and Gus disappeared behind the bar.

  Alex crossed her arms. “What time does this shindig begin? I’m ready for some fun.”

  Cheri brightened. “Maybe you’ll meet a cowboy too. I highly recommend them.”

  Alex’s mouth curved into a smile. “I think I prefer cops—or limo drivers—maybe even bankers but I never, ever would have considered dating a cowboy.”

  “Why? There’s a first time for everything.” Suzy glanced at her vibrating phone. “Ken either finished his movie—or one or both of the twins woke up.” She gathered her purse. “I’ve got to go. He’ll be in a panic if both babies are awake.”

  Cheri waved Gus over and paid. “Gotta run, girls. I need to make a Target run. See you Saturday.”