PARADISE COVE - 3 BOOK SET: PARADISE COVE SERIES

by Patrice Wilton

An hour later, after a long and pleasurable shower, she asked, “What should we do?”

  “You tell me. This is your day.”

  “Let’s go to Key West,” she said. “I’d like a change of pace.”

  She raced home and slipped into a white cotton dress with a matching floppy straw hat and sandals. Chase seemed like a different man than the one who’d come looking for a room to rent a few weeks ago. More laid-back, suntanned, the hyped-up New York energy gone.

  He’d replaced his linen slacks, pressed shirt and Gucci loafers for khaki shorts a white tee, and blue Mets cap, but the big change was the easy smile on his face, the languid movements as if he had all the time in the world, and didn’t have to punch a clock.

  “We need to take my convertible,” she told him. “I want the sun on my face and the wind in my hair. But you can drive.”

  “No problem.” He pointed south. “I don’t even need directions.”

  They put the top down, pumped the music up high, and hit the road for the hour and a half drive. “I love your surprises. This might be the best one yet. A whole day free.”

  She put her head back, and tried to remember the last time she had absolutely nothing to do but feel the wind in her hair and a song in her heart.

  “So what do you want to do when we get there?” he asked. “Hit Duval Street for shopping and lunch? Visit Hemmingway’s house, or his favorite pub instead?”

  She lifted her sun glasses to look at him and patted his bare knee. “I made the choice to come here, now you decide,” she told him with a happy smile. “I want to do anything and everything.”

  “I thought we did that last night,” he teased. “But I can be accommodating if you wish.”

  “You’re insatiable. I’m lucky I can still walk.” She turned to lean against the door so she could feast her eyes on him. He was definitely growing on her. Didn’t have the Latino swarthy good looks, but a southern charm, and emerald eyes that saw beyond her facade and right into her heart. He knew most of her secrets and seemed to like her in spite of her flaws.

  She cared for him, which made things worse instead of better. She’d miss him when he was gone. But by then, it might be time for her to also move on.

  “If you can’t walk, I’ll carry you.” He darted a glance her way and squeezed her hand. “Is the water always this blue? Or just in the summertime?”

  “Nope. Always, unless it’s a stormy day. It’s a pretty place to live. I understand why my mom and sisters love it so much. Cities can be dangerous places. Here? Stingrays and sharks are the predators. Not people.”

  “That’s an interesting perspective.”

  “A realistic one.” She leaned over and hugged his suntanned arm. “Let’s play tourists and stroll through the shops and art galleries, have a drink here and there. And lunch. Maybe dinner.”

  “You are hungry. Because you fed your breakfast to Max.”

  “He needed it more than me. But now I’m getting an appetite just thinking about all the great restaurants and bars, and people-watching places. We should probably stay for the sunset, and drive back later.”

  “Fine by me.” He kept his eyes on the road, but strummed the steering wheel with his fingers, in time to the Black Eyed Peas singing about a good, good night.

  He raised his sunglasses and winked at her. “I hope to have another one.”

  Her cheeks felt warm, her body flushed with pleasure. This man was something special, and it would be hard to see him go. He had never treated her like she was just a pretty woman he wanted to bed.

  “We will. We’ll have plenty of good, good nights. Why not? We deserve them.”

  He reached out for her hand and kissed her fingers. “Maybe you’d like to visit me in New York sometime.”

  Her breath caught in surprise. She’d thought their romance would end the minute he left. But it didn’t have to. The relationship would have to be casual, of course. They were definitely GU, geographically unsuited, but for the two of them it could be ideal.

  “I think I’d love that. And you can visit me back in Miami, or wherever I end up. I don’t think the Keys will keep me once you’re gone.”

  “After seeing you dance last night, I agree. You’re poetry in motion, and you need to use your talents and do what you love.”

  “That’s right.” She knew her mom and sister would miss her, but they’d understand and never hold her back. He wouldn’t either. “Like you.”

  “Sucks, doesn’t it?” He turned to the side window, looking at the ocean instead of at her.

  “Which part?” Her stomach churned again.

  “That our passions take us in different directions. Unless I can talk you into giving New York a try. No reason why you can’t make a career there, as you did in Miami.”

  She pursed her lips, considering the idea. “Well, the way I see it is that you could probably write plays in Miami, just like in New York. Problem is, your contacts are there, and mine are in Florida.” She shrugged. “Still, it’s a good problem to have.”

  He didn’t say anymore and neither did she. She kept her gaze on the shimmering ocean as they passed one Key after another. It was a beautiful drive, yet as the miles flew by, it seemed like the serious conversation had dimmed the brightness of the day.

  She leaned over and pecked his cheek. This was their day, and she was determined to have fun and make sure he did too.

  “What was that for?” he asked.

  “Because I’m happy being with you. Doesn’t matter how long we have together. Days, weeks, months. I intend to enjoy them.”

  He chuckled. “I’m sure I will, too. Over lunch I’ll tell you the latest additions to my story.”

  “Oh, good.” Brittany was impressed with how his creativity came out in words, just as hers came out in dance. “I can hardly wait.” Smiling, she leaned back in the seat, watching his profile instead of the view.

  She loved his strong jaw, his delightful dimples, the curve of his mouth. Matter-of-fact there wasn’t anything she didn’t like.

  “Who’s your favorite band?” he asked. “It can be somebody current or an old favorite.”

  “Girl band or boy band?”

  “Either. Just curious what kind of music you like.”

  “I love all music. Opera, Latino, Italian love songs. Whatever moves me. But I guess if I would have to choose a band it would be Red Hot Chili Peppers or R.E.M. Alternative music from the 90’s when I was growing up.”

  “Good choices. I’m a big fan of Mick Jagger. Not his lifestyle, but his music. So I guess I’d go with The Stones. And Queen. That man made some fantastic music. Also Axel from Guns N Roses.” He grinned. “Great stuff. Reminds me of my college days.”

  “At NYU. Right?”

  “Yup. You remembered. Enrolled in the creative writing program, but had to leave to take care of Mom.” He shot her a glance.

  “When your mom passed away, you married your high school sweetheart and returned to New York. Right?”

  “I stayed long enough to take care of everything. Got the house cleaned up and emptied out so my sister’s family could move in. I’d been planning on going back to finish the fine arts degree, but got sidetracked with my pretty bride.”

  “Would she have minded?”

  “I didn’t ask. As a husband, I had responsibilities. Needed to get a job, buy us a home, and forget about writing.”

  “I’m sorry.” Did he still think that way about marriage? “You gave up a lot, and never had the chance to pursue your dream.”

  “Well, I am now. And in more ways than one. I’ve met you.”

  CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

  Chase regretted the remark as soon as it passed his lips. Not that he didn’t mean what he said. He felt the same kind of emotional attachment with Brittany as he had when he first met his wife. Thing was, he wasn’t sure she did. She was a fun, good-times kind of girl, still young enough not to worry about settling down. She had dreams of her own and a right to fulfill them.

&nbs
p; Brittany was right—neither of them were successful enough to assist with the other’s career, and the only contacts they had were not in the same city.

  They’d only known each other for a matter of a few weeks. Far too soon to think of a serious relationship or any real commitment. Therefore, he should keep his mouth shut before it got him into any real trouble.

  “Let’s not worry about later,” she said. “We have today and for right now, that’s good enough.”

  “Agreed.” For all of her flightiness there was a level of practicality to Brittany that he admired. “So where to for lunch?”

  “I’m checking it out.” She was on her iPhone, looking up restaurants, he could see.

  “There’s the “Welcome to Key West” sign.” Chase was happy she’d let his remark slide, and for a change of topic. He needed to keep things light. “We should be there in a few minutes.”

  “Uh-huh.” She scrolled down. “Here’s one. Sunset Pier at Zero Duval Street. But it’s best for watching the sunset. Should I call and book it for five?”

  “Good idea.”

  She made the call, and then cruised through the list of restaurants. “Oh, here it is. Latitudes. Everyone’s been raving about it. Supposed to be awesome for lunch or dinner. Want to try it?”

  “Sure. See if we can get in.”

  Brittany thumbed in the number, her headset tucked into one perfect ear as she spoke. Within moments she turned to him with satisfaction.

  “We’re in luck.” She put her phone away, and sat back to enjoy the rest of the ride. “We can do an early lunch, at eleven thirty?”

  He checked the time on the console. “That gives us an hour to get there. Sure.”

  “Great.” She smiled at him, the white of her teeth as white as her dress. “It’s on a little island and we take a ferry over. Supposed to be very romantic, so you better watch yourself later, or I might want more of you.”

  He laughed. “I think I better take you out more often.”

  “Wish we could.” She tilted her head back and nearly lost her floppy hat in the breeze. “I’m having a great day.”

  Chase drove down to the pier, found parking, and they had to wait fifteen minutes for the next ferry service over to the private island, Sunset Key. It was a short ride and they stood at the railing, her back nestled against his front which in itself was a big turn on.

  The sea breeze felt good and the scent of the salty air tickled his nose, while the sound of music and laughter reached his ears. She tapped her toe to the beat. The moment they stepped off the boat, Brittany gave him a big hug. “First time here but I love it already,” she said, eyes sparkling.

  He couldn’t remember a woman who enjoyed the simple things more. If he was in the market for a wife, she’d be a keeper, that’s for sure. Making her happy every day would be a pleasure, and one he’d miss when he was gone.

  They dined outdoors at a table for two. Palm trees swayed in the breeze and their table was positioned to maximize the view of the Gulf of Mexico. The service and food were both exceptional, but the highlight of the day for Chase was watching Brittany’s expressions as dolphins frolicked in front of them, putting on a show for the guests.

  They shared a bottle of chilled Napa Valley Chardonnay, and both ate Maine lobster salads. It was a perfect way to spend the day, and Chase couldn’t remember being this content in years. Not since his wife left him.

  The pretty white sundress showed off Brittany’s tanned square shoulders and long slim arms. She was a beauty, the most jaw dropping woman in the restaurant, and yet she didn’t know it.

  “Max can have my breakfast every single day, if I get to come here for lunch,” she told him, exuding happiness.

  “We’ll just have to play hooky more often. I’ll skip writing and you skip work.”

  “Perfect. Maybe I could get a job being a dolphin trainer. Although they don’t seem to need me. They’ve got a good act going on, just as it is.”

  “Here’s an idea. You could learn to ride a dolphin, wearing a sparkling silver bikini.” His eyes roamed over her. “You’d be the star attraction. I’d sit here every day just to see you.”

  “You couldn’t afford it. You’d be out of a job. Maybe homeless.”

  “I’d pitch a tent under that palm tree, right there. The one in front of us. Or a hammock. That would do me. Lots to eat and drink right here. All the creature comforts of home.”

  “You could fish. Supply the restaurant with the daily catch, and you’d be a celebrity too.”

  “I don’t fish.” He grinned, and laced his fingers with hers. “I’d like to order another bottle of wine, and slip under the table with you. Think anyone would notice?”

  “What with the long white tablecloths? I doubt it. They wouldn’t even notice that we’d gone. Unless they heard me giggling. Or moaning with pleasure.”

  “That would be a sure giveaway, darlin’.”

  “Then I guess we’ll have to behave. I wish we didn’t have to drive home. It would be fun to spend the night here and chill. You know?”

  “I do know. I was wondering how I could convince you to do just that.”

  “Well….I could call Juanita and ask her to cover for me tomorrow as well. I’m sure Tay wouldn’t mind. And my mother would be thrilled. She wants me to have a romantic adventure. She’s in love with love. Reads dozens of romance novels every month, I swear.”

  “You and I could be a writing team and pen erotic and exotic stories once the sun goes down.” His thumb caressed her wrist.

  “Pen them, or act them out?” she asked, fanning her face.

  “Both. We’d have to experiment before committing something to paper.”

  “That would be fun.” She didn’t back down.

  The waiter returned and ended the conversation. “May I get anything else for you today? More wine? Dessert? Or some coffee, perhaps?”

  Chase gave Brittany an inquiring look, but she shook her head.

  “Thanks, but no. We still have a few things to do this afternoon before heading back to Paradise Cove.”

  “Where is that, sir?”

  “In Islamorada. Almost a two hour drive, but one of the sweetest places I’ve ever seen.” He leaned back, his elbow on the armrest of his chair.

  “Sounds nice,” the waiter said. “I should take my wife there.”

  “The lodging and food is great too,” Chase added with a gesture toward Brittany. “Great folks that run it.”

  “Sounds like you’re in a hurry to get back. I’ll grab the bill, and you can be on your way.”

  “Thank you,” Brittany said, wrapping her foot around his.

  “For what?” Chase nibbled on her fingers.

  “The free promo. Did you know that we’ve begun advertising Paradise Cove as the new “In Spot” for destination weddings in the Keys?”

  “No. But it’s a good idea.”

  “I think so too.” She stood up. “I’ll visit the ladies room before we head off, and meet you outside.”

  “Take your time. I need the men’s as well.” He watched her leave and noticed how many heads turned as she strode past the tables. He felt a moment’s pride. She was his for now, and he wasn’t sure that he wanted to let her go. But how could one capture a butterfly? She had to fly, and dazzle, and delight. Brittany had real star power, and he didn’t say that lightly. He’d been around enough wannabes to know the difference.

  While he waited for his receipt he turned his phone back on. Checking his messages, he saw that his sister Melanie had called. Not once, but several times.

  Something was up. This was not like her. He didn’t want anything to take away from the pleasure of the day, but he couldn’t ignore his sister. She rarely called just to chat, and would have left a message if it hadn’t been important.

  He picked up his receipt and credit card then stepped outside, slipping a hand around Brittany’s waist. “My sister has called repeatedly. I need to take this. Give me a minute?”

  “
Sure.” She gave him a warm smile. “Nothing wrong, I hope?”

  “Not sure.” He walked over to the water’s edge and redialed her number. Melanie answered on the first ring.

  “Ashley! I’ve been calling you all morning. Where have you been?”

  “Busy.” She sounded frantic, and his first thought was her kids. “What’s going on?”

  “It’s David. He was in an accident this morning.” Her voice broke. “It’s serious. I’m at the hospital now, waiting to hear.”

  “Melanie, take a deep breath and tell me what happened.” He glanced over at Brittany who was standing near the ferry dock. She caught his look and waved.

  “All I know is that it’s a spinal injury.” A sob ripped out of his little sister. “He may never walk again.” Melanie began to cry harder, and Chase felt tears stinging his own eyes. He wiped them away and cleared his throat.

  “Don’t think that,” he softened his voice. “It’s too soon to imagine the worst.” His heart ached for her. For all of them. “I’ll fly out tomorrow morning. I’m actually in the Keys right now, and I can’t leave immediately. But I’ll be there tomorrow. I promise. And I’ll stay as long as you need me.”

  “Yes, yes. Thank you. I need you. I don’t think I can do this alone.”

  “Hang tough, hon. Hopefully the doctors will give you some good news soon.”

  “I’ve been praying ever since I got the phone call. I’ll let you know when I hear something.”

  “Okay. I’ll check on flights and let you know when to expect me.”

  “You said “we.” Who are you with?”

  “Her name is Brittany.” He turned toward Brit and faked a smile. “You’d like her. A lot. I know I do.”

  “If she makes you happy, then I already do.”

  “I’ll be there soon, Melanie. Stay strong. The girls need you to be.”

  “I know. They’re at school. They don’t know. Not yet.”

  He glanced at his watch. “You’ll need to pick them up soon.”

  “I know, but I can’t. I can’t leave the hospital.” Her voice cracked. “I have a friend picking them up and bringing them here. She’s telling them there was an accident, but that we’re all right. I hope it’s the truth.”