Meg faced Helen, startled to see worry lines creasing her friend’s forehead.
“I’m not saying I’m backing out of our plans,” Helen said. “But I keep thinking, What if something terrible happens to Mom and we’re way out there on the West Coast? This whole week, every time I’ve cut someone’s hair, I’ve been reminded I’ll never cut the woman’s hair again.” She stared at her feet. “I’m not saying I’m not going…but I’ve been reading the Bible your mom gave me, and it’s becoming clear I need to put my mom first. She’s raised me alone, taught me all she knows about hair, and will leave the shop to me someday. How can I run out on her?”
Meg bit her lower lip. “You’re forgetting you let me off the hook a couple of weeks ago, and the agreement works both ways. I’ve been praying for God’s clear direction myself.”
Helen wrapped Meg in a hug. “Thank you.”
Meg took her hand. “Let’s just let each day take care of itself and see what God has planned for us.” She squeezed Helen’s hand. “Shall we go?”
They crossed and arrived at the staircase leading to the ballroom. A couple rushed past them, all but running up the concrete steps. The woman’s taffeta dress crinkled as she moved. Meg took a deep breath before pulling her notepad from her purse. “Wait, Helen, while I write down my first impressions.” She jotted short words and phrases in a kind of shorthand she’d developed. Soft warm breeze…wispy clouds in the sunset reflected in the water…ladies in elegant finery…hair swept onto their heads in a tangle of curls…men in lightweight linen suits with boater hats…air electric.
Tomorrow she’d turn them into full phrases. She stuffed the pencil and notebook in her beaded handbag and waited while Helen bought her ticket. Then Meg gave the ticket taker her press pass, and they stepped through the glass doors.
Next to her, Helen squealed. “Are you sure we aren’t on a movie set? You told me it was beautiful, but I never expected this.”
Meg grinned. “It does look like Hollywood.” She raised her eyes to the ceiling, which had turned almost orange from the reflected sunset outside the windows. White chiffon streamers attached to the center ceiling above the mirror ball floated down to where they were anchored to the column bases.
Laughter and chattering voices from early arrivals mixed with the orchestra’s soft warm-up tones. Meg drew out her pencil and noted several dignitaries who had just arrived. More people filtered in, gathering in groups, oohing and ahhing or getting punch at the concession counter.
She strolled from group to group, getting quotes and noting their impressions. As dusk fell, the soft interior lights cast a glow, giving the room a magical feel. Meg wandered to the east windows. Lights twinkled from the Luzern Hotel where it sat on a rise across from Flat Iron Park. She turned and scanned the crowd. People from the lakeshore like the Wrigleys and Sydney Smith, the famous “Andy Gump” cartoonist, mingled with residents from town and surrounding farms. She spotted Mrs. Branigan and waved.
She surveyed the room, but she knew without searching for him—everyone was there except for Jack. Had he had an accident? Had his dad taken a turn for the worse?
“Meg, look who’s here.”
She turned.
Helen hurried up to her with a broad-shouldered man following. His dark, short-cropped hair framed a handsome face that looked vaguely familiar.
Meg tilted her head. “Have we met?”
He laughed and pulled at the sleeve of what looked to be a new suit. “You’re the second person who hasn’t recognized me. I’m Tom Rutherford. We were in high school together.”
Of course. The boyfriend who’d left Helen for the navy. Meg stepped down from the promenade. “Good to see you again, Tom.”
He grinned. “I’ve been in the navy and then lived in Indiana awhile, working for my uncle in his auto-repair business and boxing on the side. Got so the boxing started taking over my life and I needed to get out of there. I’m working for Lakeside Chevrolet now.” He smiled. “Didn’t recognize Helen here, with her blond hair and all.”
Helen batted her eyelashes. “Tell her what you said when you saw me.”
Tom laughed. “You mean that I thought Jean Harlow was in town?”
“Yeah.” She looked at Meg. “Isn’t that funny?”
Meg started to say, “That’s what half the people think when they see her,” but thought better of it. She looked toward the entrance. “Well, I’m on the job tonight and need to cover the door. Good to see you again, Tom. Enjoy the evening.”
He nodded. “I plan to, now that I’ve run into Helen.”
Already, Helen had seemed to come alive after bumping into her old beau. Meg didn’t want to see her friend hurt twice by the same man and hoped Helen would be careful.
Scurrying across the dance floor toward the front of the ballroom, Meg stopped dead center under the mirror ball. Jack stood at the door, tall and erect. Like everything else he wore, his white dinner jacket and tuxedo pants fit him perfectly.
Her heart pounded in her throat as she wended her way toward him. Whatever had detained him didn’t matter. Tonight he’d see that she indeed did dance, and he wouldn’t leave without her telling him exactly how she felt about him.
She raised her hand to wave as he turned his head and offered his arm to the woman behind him—the same strawberry-blond he’d been with the other night. The woman slipped her dainty hand into the crook of his elbow, and they proceeded across the promenade.
Meg tried to pull her eyes away from the elegant angel-like figure floating on Jack’s arm, but her gaze refused to move regardless of the stab of pain pressing at the back of her eyes.
An older woman came behind them, regal in a black crepe gown, its glittery top elegant but understated. Jack whispered something to his date then guided the lady who must be his mother over to the mayor and his wife for introductions.
An ache filled Meg’s throat. She squared her shoulders as irritation overrode the hurt. Not only had he come late, but he was acting like a guest. She turned toward a group gathered on the far side of the room and marched their direction. At least one of them was working.
She’d just thanked Mrs. Hammersley, the druggist’s wife, for her comments when a booming voice welcomed everyone to the Riviera’s grand-opening celebration. Meg turned toward the orchestra. Wayne King stood taller than she expected and was better looking in person than in his publicity pictures. She let out a sigh. If only they had access to camera equipment. A shot of the room, the orchestra, and everyone in their finery would have made a swell splash on the front page. Well, she’d have to work harder to take a picture with words.
The musicians broke out with “Twelfth Street Rag” and people poured onto the dance floor, including Helen and Tom, matching move-for-move with a version of the Lindy Hop. Next to them, Jack and his date whirled around as though they’d danced together for years. It was just as well he brought her. Meg couldn’t dance near as well. She stepped up to the promenade to engage the mayor and his wife in conversation then made a note of Mrs. Taggart’s rose-tinted frock. Satisfied that she had enough, Meg returned her pad and pencil to her bag as a stir at the entrance erupted.
Hat in hand and wearing a rumpled suit, Mr. Zimmer and his wife stood next to Lester. Had he climbed those stairs? Wasn’t it too soon to exert himself like that? Meg zigzagged her way through the throng and came up to her boss. “Mr. Zimmer, I didn’t realize you were coming.”
He peered at her over the top of his glasses. “And miss the most exciting night in Lake Geneva’s history? It’s wonderful to see everyone dressed up and having a good time.” He scowled. “Did I see you over there taking notes? I agreed to you and Wallace doing that article together, but I expect you to enjoy yourself.”
Despite the twinkle in his eyes, Meg’s face warmed. Truth was, she’d been so busy gathering comments and staying far away from a certain man and his date that she’d let the first hour of the event fly past her. “I’m enjoying myself.”
�
�By the look on your face, I’d never have guessed it. You’d do better to be out there dancing with Jack than talking to me.”
The orchestra segued into a lively tune. “I love this song,” Lester said. “Meg, do you want to dance?”
She gulped and forced a smile. “Sure.”
On the dance floor, Lester placed his hand at the small of her back and jerked her to the right. She stumbled over his foot and scrambled for her balance.
“I’m not much of a dancer. Sorry.”
“No problem, but why don’t we just take small steps?”
Over Lester’s shoulder, a small crowd formed to watch a couple dance.
“Let’s see who they’re watching.” Meg stepped out of Lester’s hold and peeked over a woman’s shoulder.
Emily turned. “Meg, I didn’t see you here. Aren’t they wonderful together? They really know those swing moves.”
Jack twirled his date under his arm and lifted her in the air, her gauzy dress floating.
Emily looked at Meg again, her eyes sad. “I really thought you made a perfect couple. I’m sorry for manipulating you two together like I did.”
Meg pushed her voice past the lump in her throat. “Not to worry. We were only dating, not getting married to each other.”
“I had no idea Wallace was such a swell dancer.” Lester had come up beside her. “And he always seems to find a good-looking gal too. Know who she is, Meg?”
“Lester, don’t you ever know when to be quiet?” Emily sent him a scowl and turned her shoulder to him.”
“What did I say?”
Meg shook her head. “Nothing, Lester. I don’t know who she is.” Lester was right. Jack always managed to have an attractive woman on his arm. All the more reason not to let him get under her skin. If only her heart would listen. “I see Helen. Talk to you later.” Meg dashed across the room. Best to be out of the vicinity before the music ended and she had to face Jack.
“Isn’t this the most fantastic night?” Helen squealed her words above the din of laughter and chattering voices as Meg approached her.
“It’s wonderful.” Meg looked around. “Where’s Tom?”
“Getting me some punch. You know, it’s like we’ve never been apart. Do you think God has other plans for both of us, Meg?”
Meg forced a smile. “Maybe.” Though her own heart ached, she didn’t want to be a killjoy in the face of Helen’s newfound happiness. Maybe she’d find herself on a train going West alone. At least she’d know for sure that God’s plan for her didn’t include Jack.
Chapter Forty-Three
“There you are, Meg. Would you like to dance?”
At the sound of the deep, smooth voice, Meg’s heart skipped a beat. She turned.
Jack stood a few feet away, a corner of his mouth pulled up into the crooked smile that always sent her heart racing. He ran his eyes over her in a way that seemed like a caress.
She nodded and took his hand. At his touch, tingles shot up her arm. He pulled her toward the dance floor. What was she going to do if it was a fast number? She knew none of those swing steps she’d watched him do. And where was his date? She scanned the crowd. The blond beauty chatted with Jack’s mom, not once looking their way. Wouldn’t she be concerned about Jack dancing with someone else?
The orchestra began a slow number, and Meg relaxed. Slow, she could do. Jack gathered her into his arms and held her snug against him, guiding her around the perimeter of dancers. Her feet felt light, as if she were floating. He drew her closer until their cheeks met. The scruff of his shaven jaw rubbed against her skin, and more tingles raced up her spine. She tightened her left arm across his back as the crooner’s mellow voice sang out the words. Jack sang along.
“I’ll be loving you always, with a love that’s true always. When the things you’ve planned need a helping hand, I will understand always.”
Meg closed her eyes. Jack nuzzled his mouth closer to her ear and sang the words again. She all but groaned, wishing he really did love her that way. She had to keep her head, guard her heart. It was only a song. He’d come with someone else. The same someone whom he took to the movies.
“You’re a wonderful dancer, Meg.”
She drew back as his eyes searched her face. “It must be the man who’s leading me so well.”
He grinned. “Ah, compliments will get you everywhere. Great dance, isn’t it? The committee must be very proud. And in case you’re concerned, I plan to summarize my impressions when I get home tonight and then bang out my article in the morning.”
There he went, reading her mind again. But the truth be told, she’d forgotten she was even angry or hurt. “I was a little concerned. Did you see Mr. Zimmer?”
“I did, but I haven’t had a chance to say hello.”
She scanned the crowd on the promenade as they danced. “Maybe you’ll have one now. He’s over there, talking to your date.”
Jack stared at her, his brows arched high. “I call my sister a lot of things, but I’ve never called her my date.”
Meg’s right foot landed on his left, and she stumbled backward. He caught her and drew her against his chest. “Whoa, girl.”
All tension left her shoulders. “She’s your sister?”
“I intended to introduce you, but I couldn’t find you in this mass of humanity. She surprised me last week by popping in for a few days before heading to Milwaukee to visit a friend. That’s why I took those days off.” He stepped back and ran his eyes over her frame then caught her gaze in his own, drawing her in like a lion to his prey. “You look beautiful tonight, Meg.”
His gently spoken words washed over her like a warm spring rain. Grateful for the dim lighting that hopefully masked her blush, she smiled. “Thanks.”
He stepped closer and brushed a lock of hair off her cheek. Tingles filled her stomach. “I’m not just saying that because you’re all dressed up. I’ve thought you beautiful since the first day we met.”
“There you are, brother dear.” Jack’s sister came up and grinned at Meg. “Hi, I’m Kate Weber, Jack’s sister. You must be Meg. I’ve heard so much about you these past few days, I feel like I know you.”
Feeling really stupid for wasting so much time on being jealous, Meg held out her hand. “And I’ve heard a lot about you too.”
Kate took Meg’s hand and gave it a soft squeeze, “I hope it was all good.”
The band started a jive song and Kate looked at Jack. “Meg, do you mind if I steal my twin from you for this song? We’ve not danced together in a long time, and I’m enjoying it.”
Meg laughed. “Be my guest. I’ll be happy to watch.” She stepped away as the dance floor filled. If she and Jack did end up together, she’d have to work on her dance skills.
Jack spun Kate and circled her waist with his left arm as he let her down into a dip to end the song. She straightened, and he hugged her. “Katie girl, you haven’t lost your touch. You’ll have to come up here this summer so we can perfect our moves.”
She pressed a palm to her stomach. “This will probably be my last dance for the next seven months or so. No time like the present to ask how you like the idea of being called Uncle Jack.”
Jack’s jaw dropped. “Really? I’m going to be an uncle?”
Kate nodded. “Paul and I found out a couple of weeks ago, and I’m waiting until you, Mom, and I are together after the dance to tell Mom. We had so little time between you two arriving and having to leave for the dance. We’re absolutely thrilled.”
Jack grabbed her and whirled her into a slow dance that had begun a few beats earlier. “That’s the best news I’ve had all day. From now on, only slow songs for you, Katie girl.”
She leaned back and grinned. “Don’t you want to save the slow ones for Meg? I saw that dreamy look on your face when you two were dancing. You’d better snap her up fast.”
“I’m trying, but it seems like everything is against us.”
“Like what? That dreamy look wasn’t only on your face, Jack.
She’s crazy about you. I can see it. Mom can see it. In fact, if you don’t bring her over to meet our mother, Mom’s going to go crazy.”
He loved hearing Kate’s words, but now that she was expecting, he had no choice but to go to the Beacon and save it for her. “I have other priorities before I can settle down, and Meg is thinking about moving to California to chase her dream of being a reporter.”
“What priorities?”
He pressed his head to hers and whispered, “Making sure that managing the Beacon is there for you as soon as you are ready. I know Dad has Will Snow running things now, but not giving you a chance because you’re a woman isn’t fair.”
She stopped dancing, and he stumbled over her foot. “Would you repeat that, please?”
“You’ve dreamed of running the Beacon ever since we were in high school. I’m going to make sure it’s yours whenever you’re ready for it. But I have to figure out how to have Dad see the light and let me have the job first.”
Kate laughed and shook her head. “Jack, I love you for being so faithful to me, but I haven’t dreamed of running the paper since I left for college and met Paul. I’m happy being Paul’s wife, and I think motherhood is going to be my full-time job for a long time. You know, Jackie, I get the sense you don’t really want the Beacon either. As far as I’m concerned, let Snow have the job. Maybe when the time comes, we can still own the business but pay someone else to run it.”
Jack spun her around the floor, suddenly feeling as if he could fly. He felt free—except for two things. He needed to find Oscar and Meg. Meg first. “You’re right. I don’t want it.” He grinned. “Do you mind if I find Meg?”
“I never thought you’d ask. I’m heading for the punch.”
When Meg saw Jack and Kate continue dancing, she turned away and chatted with a lady she knew from the bank. It felt good to not worry about Jack and Kate—or Jack and Ginny for that matter. She probably wouldn’t be seeing Ginny for a while anyway; Meg had heard she’d gotten a reporting job at the Chicago Tribune. Meg was happy for her.
Love Finds You in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Page 27
