Under a Summer Sky--A Savannah Romance

by Melody Carlson

  Before long Nicole was situated in the luxurious SUV. Seeing Vivian up close, Nicole could tell that she had aged slightly but still seemed youthful and animated as she chattered pleasantly, navigating her way through the traffic leaving the airport.

  “As much as I’d love to show you some real Southern hospitality and cook you a homemade meal,” Vivian said, “we’ve been so busy that Robert suggested we take you out for dinner instead. I hope you don’t mind.”

  “Not at all. I hope you’re not going to any trouble for my sake.”

  “I just wish the boys could’ve joined us.” Vivian shook her head. “But grown-up kids get so busy with their own lives. Alex travels a lot these days, consulting for Robert’s investment firm. He’s been in Boston this past week. And Ryan is busy as a bee with his business.”

  “What kind of business?” Nicole asked, watching the landscape pass by. This area looked more built-up than she recalled, but then she hadn’t been in Savannah for about fifteen years.

  “Ryan renovates historic homes. Mostly Victorians.”

  “Interesting.”

  “It is. He had a previous commitment for tonight, but he promised to check in on you later in the week. You’ll probably see Alex before that. I think he’s due back on Monday. He’s been staying at the house.”

  “At your house?” Nicole was confused.

  “Not in the house proper. He’s been using the carriage house for the last month or so. That’s why I can’t put you in there. But you’ll be more comfortable in the big house anyway.”

  “Why is Alex using the carriage house?”

  “He’s waiting for the sale to close on a condo downtown. And that can’t happen until the divorce is finalized.”

  “Divorce?”

  “Didn’t your mama mention that? Or maybe I forgot to mention it to her. So much to remember these days. Anyway, it’s sad but true. Alex and Lori have split up. Let me tell you, it’s been very difficult for everyone. But mostly for poor Bernice—that’s my granddaughter. Poor thing. Divorce is always hardest on kids.”

  “I’m so sorry to hear that.” Nicole questioned her words. Was she really sorry? After all, this was Alex. Of course she was sorry for the child. Divorce was definitely sad. But what if it meant Alex was available? Now that could be interesting. Or not. Nicole had a personal policy never to get involved with a man who was divorced. Plus Alex had a child. Then again, this was the guy she’d obsessed over as a kid.

  Vivian pointed out places of interest as she drove toward the downtown area. “As you can see, there’s been a lot of growth in outlying areas, but the heart of Savannah is pretty much the same. The historical districts don’t change much, other than necessary improvements and historical restorations. Mostly the houses and gardens and parks just keep getting prettier. I find that reassuring.”

  “An artist could get very inspired in this town,” Nicole said as they went past a beautiful old Gothic church.

  “Hopefully you’ll find time to do some painting.”

  “At least I can gather some photos. If nothing else, I can paint from the images when I go back home.”

  “Do you have a painting studio that inspires you?”

  Nicole laughed as she visualized her tiny apartment. “Not exactly. I always imagine that I’ll do some painting during the summer break. Sit outside in the fresh air.” She sighed. “But the truth is I tend to get distracted when the sun is shining. So then I imagine that I’ll get more creative when winter comes—you know, when the weather keeps you inside.”

  “I remember how rainy that part of the world can be in the winter. Don’t miss that at all. But it probably gives you lots of indoor time to paint.”

  Nicole nodded. Yet even when the weather was nasty, she could come up with excuses not to paint. It used to be Peter. Then it was her job—teaching art drained her creative energy. That was true, but it was also an excuse.

  “Looks like Robert beat us here,” Vivian said as she parked in front of the restaurant. “I told him to get a table overlooking the water. I thought that, being an artist, you’d appreciate that.”

  “Sounds lovely.”

  And it was. From the historic building that had once housed a shipping company, to the view of the river where a festive-looking paddle-wheel boat was slowly moving upstream, it was perfectly charming. The interior of the restaurant was slightly dim with all its dark paneling and old brass lamps. Everything in the place, the tapestry upholstery and heavy oak tables, felt old-fashioned but charming—so different from the sleek, modern restaurants she was used to in Seattle. As the waiter, with his impeccable manners and deep Southern drawl, took their orders, she was further reminded that she wasn’t in the Northwest anymore.

  Both Robert and Vivian seemed preoccupied—probably with their upcoming trip. Although they were polite and congenial, she could sense that they were eager to be on their way. Fortunately, their waiter was prompt and efficient, and before long they were finished with their meal.

  “The grouper was fabulous,” Nicole told her hosts. “Thanks for recommending it.”

  “Their grouper is always dependable.” Robert took a peek at his phone.

  “Next time you’ll have to try the Atlantic salmon,” Vivian added.

  Nicole set her spoon next to what was left of her crème brûlée. “Thank you for bringing me here tonight. And thank you for bringing me to Savannah.” She laid her napkin on the table, signaling that she was ready to leave.

  “Well, we’re so glad you could come down here,” Robert said in his smooth Georgian drawl. “Vivian was struggling over having to leave her precious gallery for such a length of time. It means a lot to me that you were able to come, Nicole. We both feel the gallery will be in good hands.” He glanced at his watch. “Now if you ladies will excuse me, I have to run by my office to take care of a few things.”

  “I want to take Nicole by the gallery,” Vivian told him. “I’ll show her around and introduce her to Amyra.”

  “You mean Vampira?” Robert’s brow arched as he winked at Nicole.

  “Oh, Robert.” Vivian waved a dismissive hand as her husband signed the receipt. Judging by the tip, which Nicole didn’t mean to observe, this was not an inexpensive meal.

  Robert waved and made his exit, and Vivian turned to Nicole. “Don’t mind him. Amyra has a unique sense of style, and as you probably know, Robert is fairly conservative. He’s always picking on the poor girl.” She reached for her purse. “Not to her face, of course.” As they went outside, Vivian explained that the gallery was only two blocks away. “It’s on Bay Street too. Do you mind if we walk?”

  “Not at all. It’s gorgeous out here.” Nicole took a deep breath. Although the air was different from Seattle’s, there was a familiarity about it too. Both were humid, and both had the waterfront. But the difference was that the air felt softer somehow. Perhaps it was sweeter too. And if not for the unseasonable hot spell she’d left behind, it would probably feel warmer.

  “The air feels like velvet,” she said as they strolled past a home design shop.

  “It is a nice evening.” Vivian sighed as they walked past an attractive flower shop. “I just never get tired of our little city. I wouldn’t dream of telling Robert, but as interesting as a world cruise sounds, I wouldn’t complain if we never took one. I’ve always been happy as a clam down here in Savannah. I suppose it’s partly due to growing up in the Northwest.”

  Nicole looked around at the charming old buildings. “I can see how you could get used to it. Already I feel drawn in. I can tell this is going to be a fun summer.” The riverboat blew its whistle, slow and low, and for a moment Nicole imagined that she’d gone back to a gentler time.

  “The gallery is open because it’s a Saturday night,” Vivian explained as she paused by a boxy brick building. “In the off-season, I always keep it open late on Fridays and Saturdays. But during the high season, I keep it open every evening. Well, except Tuesday. It’s closed on Tuesdays.” She
explained a few more things about the gallery, promising that it was all covered in her notes. “I ordered you business cards too,” she said as she paused in front of another brick building.

  “Business cards?”

  “Yes, for customers. The printer promised to deliver them by Wednesday.” She opened the glass door. “Now, welcome to my world!”

  Nicole knew she would be expected to gush over Vivian’s “baby,” or to at least show enthusiasm. She prepared herself, trying to think of compliments that would sound sincere and intelligent. But once she was inside, she realized she didn’t need to be concerned.

  Even though the gallery’s art wasn’t her favorite style, the whole place was exquisitely beautiful in a classic old-world style. Rich oriental carpets, dark hardwood floors, comfortable-looking upholstered chairs arranged just right, accented by the perfect antique pieces. The lighting was impeccable, the quiet classical music was just right, and the art was actually quite nice. It was primarily landscape and still life, as well as a few well-done portraits. Most were in oil, and the colors were rich and luxurious. Although Nicole had never been a fan of heavy gilt frames, they seemed to suit these pieces and weren’t in the least bit chintzy. She leaned closer to peer at the price of a pastoral scene, trying not to gasp at the amount. This gallery was definitely not for penny pinchers. It even smelled good, something like citrus and cedar.

  “Vivian, your gallery is truly lovely,” Nicole said quietly, as if it were necessary to whisper. “Everything is absolutely perfect. I totally love it.”

  “Thank you, honey. I’m so glad to hear that! Now you must meet Amyra.” Vivian led her to a woman whose back was to them. Her glossy black hair was straight and cut in jagged layers, although every hair looked perfectly in place. She had on a fitted knit dress the color of eggplant. “Amyra,” Vivian called out. “Nicole is here.”

  Amyra turned around, peering at Nicole. With her very pale skin and perfect makeup, including black eyeliner and dark plum lips, she truly did resemble a pretty vampire. As Vivian introduced them, Nicole hoped she could erase Robert’s nickname for this woman. It would be terribly embarrassing to accidentally call her Vampira. Still, as she shook Amyra’s hand, she was taken aback by how cold it was. To be fair, it was quite cool in the gallery. The AC must’ve been set at a low temperature.

  “I’m pleased to meet you,” Nicole said. From her sleek silver chain and cuff bracelet to shoes that matched her dress, this woman looked perfectly together—like she should be managing a New York gallery. Nicole, with her windblown blonde hair and casual clothes, felt unkempt and messy next to Amyra.

  “Nice to meet you too, Nicole. I’m relieved to know that I’ll have some help around here.” She narrowed her eyes at Vivian. “Especially since we lost Gillian last week.”

  “Gillian?” Nicole asked.

  “Oh, I forgot to mention her,” Vivian said. “She’d been with me for about a year, and then, without even giving notice, she up and left us.”

  “Very selfish,” Amyra said. “But then that was Gillian.”

  “Yes. I suppose . . .” Vivian’s brow creased as if she wanted to add something but thought better of it.

  “And bad timing with the boss leaving the country.” Amyra shook her head. “Especially after scheduling such a busy summer for the gallery.”

  “I’ve already apologized.” Vivian sounded offended.

  “Oh, Viv, I’m just toying with you.” Amyra’s lips curved into a tight smile. “You deserve this vacation. I’m glad you’re going. I’m probably just jealous.”

  “Well, you will be in good hands with Nicole here.”

  Amyra’s dark brows arched. “I’ll be in good hands?”

  “Oh, you know what I mean.” Vivian glanced at Nicole. “Amyra is a stickler about communication. Very literal. She was an English major.” She chuckled nervously.

  “I just feel people should say what they mean.” Amyra folded her thin arms in front of her. “Anyway, I do appreciate having Nicole here to help out.” She seemed to be giving Nicole a head-to-toe evaluation, perhaps to determine if she was truly up to the task. “What sort of gallery experience do you actually have?” Amyra asked in a superior tone.

  “Well, I—”

  “Nicole has an art degree,” Vivian said quickly. “She’s also a very talented artist in her own right. Plus, being from the West Coast, she brings a fresh perspective to us. I believe the gallery will benefit from her expertise.”

  Amyra’s eyes narrowed a bit, as if she was skeptical.

  “Well, we can’t linger,” Vivian said quickly. “I only wanted Nicole to meet you and see the gallery.”

  “Since she’s here, she might as well pick up her schedule. I made one out for her.”

  Vivian looked surprised, but she simply nodded as Amyra got a paper from behind the counter and handed it to Nicole. “Glad to have you as part of the team.” She gave another stiff smile.

  “Thank you.” Nicole slipped the schedule into her purse. Something about this woman made her uncomfortable, and as much as she hated to make snap judgments, she just didn’t like Amyra.

  “As you’ll see, you are scheduled for all day tomorrow and Monday—”

  “I had hoped Nicole wouldn’t start immediately.” Vivian sounded concerned. “She only just arrived. She needs some time to—”

  “But I already made plans for tomorrow afternoon,” Amyra declared.

  “It’s okay,” Nicole said quickly. “I’m happy to work tomorrow.”

  Vivian looked uneasy. “You’re sure?”

  “Absolutely.” As Nicole smiled, she questioned her own judgment. What was she getting into?

  “Well . . . okay.” Vivian still looked uncertain.

  Nicole turned to Amyra. “As long as you can train me tomorrow morning. I’m afraid I’d be lost—”

  “Yes, of course,” Amyra said, sounding irritated.

  Vivian continued Nicole’s tour, showing her the back room, the kitchenette, the packing area, and the small, windowless office. Finally she went back into the gallery to say goodbye to Amyra. Nicole forced a smile, promising Amyra that she’d be there first thing in the morning.

  As they exited the building, Nicole could tell that Vivian wasn’t pleased. For that matter, Nicole wasn’t either. Spending the entire summer with someone like Amyra did not sound the least bit fun.

  4

  “I really wish you didn’t have to go in to work so soon,” Vivian said as she drove them home. “I would’ve stood up to Amyra about this, but I didn’t want to create a debacle right before I have to leave on the cruise.” She let out a loud sigh. “Amyra can be . . . well, she can be a little contrary at times. Despite her reassurance, I know she’s not too pleased about me being absent all summer.”

  Nicole was getting more worried. What if it was a mistake for Vivian to leave her gallery in the hands of . . . well, Vampira and a novice? How many things could go wrong? She did not want to find out.

  “But Amyra really does know how to manage the gallery,” Vivian said. “Technically. Sometimes her people skills are a bit sharp, if you know what I mean.”

  Nicole simply nodded.

  “You will be just the medicine.” Vivian pulled into the narrow driveway next to the big Victorian house that Nicole remembered from her last visit to Savannah. It was getting dusky, but there was enough light in the pink-tinged sky to see.

  “Your house looks even prettier than I remember,” Nicole said as Vivian drove alongside the house.

  “We’ve had a lot of work done in the last ten years.”

  “It’s absolutely gorgeous.” As they got out, Nicole looked all around, taking in the turrets and bay windows, the gingerbread and decorative railings, the ornate cornices and gleaming leaded windows. “Has it been painted since I saw it? I remember it as being all white—it reminded me of a wedding cake.”

  Vivian chuckled. “Yes, that’s exactly what Ryan used to say. Apparently a lot of Victorians were painted
in pastels in the first half of the last century, but that wasn’t historically correct. Ryan chose a palette of colors that was appropriate to the house’s period. If it was lighter out, you’d see that it’s a combination of mossy greens and plum colors. I like it a lot.”

  “Well, it all looks perfect to me.” She admired the landscape, where well-placed solar lights were just coming on, reminding her of a fairyland. It seemed that everything was abloom here, including a large gardenia with a fragrance so sweet, Nicole felt slightly lightheaded as she waited for Vivian to open the back of the SUV.

  “Robert will bring in your bags.”

  “I don’t mind—”

  “It’s simply Southern hospitality,” Vivian assured her. “Let him do it.” She held out her car keys to Nicole. “And you will have the use of this SUV while I’m gone.” She nodded to the garage. “I considered letting you have the Mercedes, but you might need something with more space in case you need to pick up or deliver anything from the gallery.”

  “Oh, yes, that makes sense.”

  Vivian tipped her head toward the house, where the interior lights looked golden in the dusky light. “Let’s go through the back door.” As she led Nicole down a vine-covered cobblestone path, she pointed out various improvements, including a sweet gazebo and a fragrant herb garden with a small water fountain in the center. But it was the swimming pool that got Nicole’s attention.

  “That’s new.” Nicole paused to gaze at the stunning pool area. It wasn’t overly large, but the sapphire-blue water, reflecting the patio lights, looked glassy and peaceful. Like everything else, this pool was created with an old-world style. The edge was trimmed in beautiful tiles surrounded by a stone patio, where comfy-looking padded lounge chairs were casually arranged.

  “We put that in about seven years ago. I wasn’t sure this Victorian house would look right with a pool, but Ryan came up with some great suggestions.”

  “Everything looks so gorgeous, Vivian. I don’t see how you can leave all this behind for an entire summer.”