Chaos at Coconuts

by Beth Carter

  Tears threatened her eyes. She angrily brushed them off her cheeks. “I said I’m confused, okay? This has been a shitty day and I have an early meeting tomorrow. As I’ve said numerous times, I’m leaving.”

  “Have it your way. But I want to see you soon. I need to see you soon.” He brushed her lips with his and stormed off.

  Chapter 54

  The next morning Suzy found a quiet booth at The Coffee Drip, ordered a cappuccino, and Googled the number for the Crystal City Park Board. Once she was transferred to the appropriate person, she asked about having a wedding in the park and discovered it was allowed but a band was not permitted due to a noise ordinance, as she had suspected. Alcohol was also prohibited which was no surprise since they couldn’t control minors who might try to sneak alcoholic beverages.

  After the available park dates and times were determined, she texted the info to her Halloween bride with apologies about the band and alcohol. Suzy asked if they wanted to proceed with using Crystal City Park as a venue.

  While she waited for a response, she got a refill and switched gears to Google Florida beachfront hotels for Jon and Fernando. This is multitasking at its best. As she studied one large hotel in comparison to a smaller B&B, her phone vibrated.

  Priscilla gave her a green light and mentioned something about an after-party in someone’s basement “anyways.” Suzy chuckled at the slang, wrote down the date the bride chose, and called to reserve a section of the park near the pavilion and cave. After the date was on the park’s books, Suzy confirmed the date with her bride and asked Priscilla to finalize the invitations and get them in the mail pronto.

  One down. Suzy viewed several more beach wedding destinations before she settled on her top three favorites. She emailed the links to Jon. Eating one almond after another while waiting for his response, her mind drifted to Fernando’s mother. I hope she doesn’t meddle in their lives. When Jon called, her mouth was full of nuts.

  “That was fast. You’re a rock star, Mom.”

  Suzy mumbled, “I am pretty good.”

  “What? I can’t understand you.”

  She swallowed. “You caught me with my mouth full. Do you like any of the resorts I sent? There are a lot more I could sug—”

  “Let’s don’t get bogged down in the weeds. All three of these are beautiful, but Fernando and I prefer the Pink Shell. We both love pink—”

  “You do?” Suzy asked.

  “I’m joking. What a cliché for two gay guys to love pink. We like the fact the resort looks like it’s on the far end of Fort Myers Beach, so we’d have privacy, plus that powdery white sand is inviting.”

  Suzy smiled into the phone. She could tell her fast-talking son was excited.

  He continued, “I scrolled through the resort’s wedding photos. It looks like they have weddings often, so they’re obviously equipped and organized.”

  “Plus their reviews are excellent,” Suzy said. “Do you have a date in mind?”

  “How about next month?”

  Suzy sucked in her breath. “Are you serious?”

  “Dead serious. I’d say two weeks but I know that would stress you out, plus we couldn’t get invitations out in time. We’re ready to be married.”

  “My goodness. Let me contact the Pink Shell and see if they have dates available next month, but I have to warn you places like this usually book a year or more in advance. You’ll be lucky if you can get in anywhere this quickly, especially this resort. Sorry, son.”

  Jon’s tone changed. “You can do it. You’re a wizard. I have faith in you. Gotta go, Mom. Love you.”

  Suzy’s head swam. A beach wedding in a month? I have to make this happen for my son. But how?

  She took a deep breath and called the Pink Shell, and just as she had suspected, the inn, so to speak, was full—for two long years. She ran her fingers through her hair. This will never work. Jon and Fernando won’t wait that long. Regardless, she left her phone number with the rushed, impatient clerk. “In case something opens up . . .” She didn’t have much faith. She knew it was “the season” when spring breakers, families, and wedding parties descended upon Southwest Florida.

  She needed to see her girlfriends and texted them.

  Let’s meet at Coconuts in thirty minutes.

  Alex responded first.

  Hope and I are already here. We were just going to text you. Come over. Hope apparently has big news!

  Before she left The Coffee Drip, Suzy called her second and third resort choices to check availability—just in case. She drummed her fingers on the table while she waited. Her phone pinged and she learned the hotels were booked for six months and nine months, respectively. Sighing, she emailed her name and number for the first open date.

  She made a few notes, refreshed her pink lip-gloss, and headed to Coconuts, curious about Hope’s news.

  Chapter 55

  Earlier that day, Alex had raced to her marketing meeting, barely making it through the boardroom door at eight. As usual, the president and two executive vice presidents were already seated with almost-empty coffee cups. She groaned inwardly. Damn morning people.

  She plopped down at the head of the table and distributed her marketing agenda to the executives. After presenting preliminary plans for Show-Me Bank’s upcoming groundbreaking, a contract for radio spots on a new easy-listening station, and print ad possibilities for the Crystal City Business Journal, Alex filled a coffee mug while her superiors considered her recommendations.

  After she returned to the boardroom, her boss leaned forward. “What would the radio ads be about?”

  She grinned, happy she had anticipated that question. “I thought you might ask. Here.” She circulated several sample thirty-second spots. “I drafted scripts highlighting customers who’ve used a variety of our services including home loans, commercial loans, construction loans, and one showcasing an adorable new family who opened a college savings account for their newborn.”

  The president smiled. “That’ll be a heartwarming ad. Maybe we should consider television too. These scripts could be used for radio or TV, right?”

  Alex nodded. “Yes, I can rework them for audio or video. In fact, I already contacted Ozarks5 and two other stations for second quarter pricing. I should have that information by next week.”

  One senior executive studied the script. “How in the world do you know these are thirty seconds long?”

  She grinned. “Easy. I use a stop watch. Any time you want to run the thirty- or sixty-yard dash, I’m your girl.”

  “You think of everything,” Jim said. “Let’s take a break and talk about the groundbreaking.”

  Alex peered at her watch. It was nine-thirty. Gage would be at the other bank by ten. If they took a break, she’d never make it across town in time. “Fine, but I have a new customer from New York coming to the other branch at ten. He specifically requested my assistance with opening a new account.”

  “Who am I to stand in the way of a new bank account?” Jim stood and stretched. “Go ahead and get to your office. Great job, as usual, Alex. I’ll send you an email later today with a recap of our decisions.”

  “Thanks.” She gathered her briefcase and got in her car, thrilled to get out of the meeting a little early. Before she drove off, she stared in her rearview mirror, reapplied red lipstick, and brushed her hair. Why am I primping?

  After catching every single red light, Alex finally made her way across the lobby at one minute before ten. With her briefcase in one hand and her leopard print purse slung over her shoulder, she smiled when she spotted the backside of a man sitting in her office. He is prompt.

  Gage stood as Alex entered her darkened office. She noticed her hand shook as she flipped on a light. “Morning, Gage.”

  “Good morning. You look nice. Red suits you.” />
  “This old thing.”

  “Doesn’t look old to me. In fact . . . is that a price tag on your—” Gage’s eyes twinkled.

  “Oh, God.” In one fell swoop Alex yanked the tag off and threw it into the trash. She brushed imaginary lint off her suit in an attempt to hide the maneuver. After composing herself, she settled behind her desk, trying to find her most professional voice. “So . . . you want to open an account. A regular checking account or—”

  Hannah walked in. “Well, hellooooo.” She extended her hand as she leaned across his chair giving Gage full view of her cleavage. “I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Hannah Hooban, the bank president’s daughter.”

  Gage raised his eyebrows. “You work in the bank where your father is president?”

  Alex butted in a little too quickly and sternly. “She’s not an employee, per se. She’s an intern. My intern.” Alex shifted in her seat. “Why don’t you work in the employee lounge while I meet with our newest customer?”

  Hannah eyed Gage. “I like new customers too. Maybe I can help.” She shot Alex a look and turned back toward Gage with her sweetest smile.

  “Hannah, I’d appreciate some privacy,” Alex said.

  The intern shrugged. “I believe I’ve been excused by my boss.” She dragged out the last word for emphasis and patted the door as she left. “Thanks for your business. I hope we’ll see you here again verrry soon.”

  After Hannah was out of earshot, Gage raised his brows. “Friction in the office?”

  “Something like that.” Alex rolled her eyes. “Ordinarily I’d ask what brought you here and whether you’ve seen any of our marketing like television commercials or billboards—”

  “You brought me here.”

  “There are a lot of banks in this town,” Alex continued.

  “But you work at this one.”

  She felt her cheeks flush. “Thanks, but I have to tell you I’m dating the cop you met.”

  Gage crossed his arms. “I gathered that. Must be a ball. He’s a real peach.”

  Alex shrugged. “You know how relationships are. Good days and bad. Let’s get you over to New Accounts.”

  “So soon? I thought we could chat.”

  “Want to talk about New York or about Cheri?”

  Gage laughed. “I’d rather find out about you but fire away. What do you want to know?”

  “Tell me about Brooklyn and more about the Van Burens.”

  Gage discussed living in one of New York’s boroughs, Cheri, and her socialite parents while Alex sat riveted. “It must be fascinating working for a wealthy family.”

  “It’s interesting and a challenge dealing with the paparazzi and driving through the city. The Van Burens are nice people, especially Cheri. She isn’t pretentious at all. Unless you recognized her designer clothes, you’d never know she was filthy rich.”

  Alex nodded. “I’ve noticed Cheri doesn’t flaunt her richness. I like that about her.”

  Gage chuckled. “I can’t say the same for her mom. She’s a flaunter.” He glanced around the lobby filled with customers. Guess I should get my account open so I can take you to lunch. My stomach is already growling.”

  Alex winked. “I’m taking you since you’re a new customer, remember?” They crossed the lobby to a desk near the front door. She introduced Gage to Cleo, the senior New Accounts representative. “You’re in good hands. Cleo has been here since the bank’s founding. She can assist you with whatever you want—checking account, savings account, Certificate of Deposit, safety deposit box, basically anything except a loan.” As Alex entered her office, she could feel the burn of his stare and wondered why it felt so good.

  Chapter 56

  Nearly an hour later, Cleo walked Gage back to Alex’s office. “He’s all yours.” The elderly, well-dressed woman shook Gage’s hand. “Nice meeting you. Let me know if you need anything else.”

  “Likewise. Thanks for your help. This is a friendly bank, that’s for sure.” After Cleo left, Gage sat in a chair opposite Alex.

  She turned her computer off and reached for her purse. “Ready for lunch?”

  “Is Hannah joining us?” Gage asked.

  Alex frowned.

  “I’m kidding. Let’s go. I’m starving.”

  They walked side by side out the front door into the bright sunshine. Both Alex and Gage stopped short at the sight of Tony standing feet apart on the sidewalk, ostensibly in battle mode.

  “Mixing business with pleasure, Alex?” Tony glared at her as he sized up the limo driver.

  “Don’t get excited. We’re just going to lunch,” Gage said. He gave Tony a wicked grin. “By the way, you’re not invited.”

  Tony stepped between them. “Maybe you were hard of hearing at Coconuts. I told you she’s my girlfriend.”

  Alex frowned. “I’m not a shoe. I’m not your possession.” And what the hell happened to the space I told you I needed?

  Thankfully, the bank president appeared at the bank’s wide double doors, breaking the tension. Clueless, Jim was all smiles as he stepped onto the sidewalk and joined the testy trio.

  “What a beautiful day.” The bank president shook Gage’s hand. “I saw you earlier with Cleo in New Accounts. Thank you for your business. Alex, I hope you’re taking our newest customer to lunch.”

  She bobbed her head, avoiding Tony’s gaze. “Yes. Yes, I am.” Then to lighten the blow, she added, “For a quick lunch.”

  Obviously pleased, Jim Hooban said, “Good. Glad to hear it.” He waved as he headed toward his car.

  Tony narrowed his eyes and focused on Gage. “So, you’re a new bank customer. Handy. Guess I need to open an account for you to take me to lunch, Alex, then maybe you’d take me out instead of playing footsies with a limo driver.” He glared at her and sped away.

  Alex couldn’t face Gage. She was humiliated, confused, mad at Tony, and mad at herself. Shielding her face from the bright sun, she asked, “Do you mind if we take a raincheck on lunch?”

  “Not at all.” Gage stared at his shiny shoes. “I hope there’s another time but it appears you have some unfinished cop business.”

  As Alex watched Gage leave, she had a feeling she’d never see him again. After she got inside, she read a text from Hope asking her to meet at Coconuts. Grateful for the distraction, Alex replied she was on her way.

  Chapter 57

  The minute Suzy stepped inside Coconuts, her shoulders relaxed, but when she spotted her friends, dread overcame her. Alex had obviously been crying. Alex never cried. Suzy rushed to the table. “What’s wrong?”

  “Tony. My relationship. My job. Pretty much my life.”

  “We know about the issues with Tony. What’s up at work? The new girl?” Hope asked.

  “Hannah the Horrible.”

  “That sucks,” Suzy said. “You always loved your job and you’re so good at it.”

  “I keep hoping a car will hit her,” Alex said.

  Suzy frowned.

  Alex swatted the air with her hand. “I’m kidding. I just need a break. Between Tony’s ex and my stupid intern, I’m losing it. The little bitch is probably rifling through my desk right now.” She fished her cell out of her magenta purse. I think I’ll call the bank and tell the master’s degree genius to take tomorrow off. I need a break. I can’t stomach her two days in a row on top of dealing with Tony and his spiteful ex.”

  Alex pressed the phone against her ear and frowned, then her mouth flew open. She turned the device off and sat back. “That little bitch changed my voicemail. Again.” I’ve got to go back to the bank and confront her right now.

  Suzy grabbed Alex’s arm. “Sit down. Why don’t you wait until tomorrow? Let’s enjoy our girl time.”

  “You’re right.” Alex waved to Gus. “It mi
ght be afternoon but I need a chardonnay. Pronto. Let’s change the subject. I’m sick of my issues.” She glanced at Hope. “How did you leave school early?” She waved her hand. “Doesn’t matter. I know how busy you must be with the cleanup and rebuilding. My problems are ridiculous compared to that.”

  “Actually, hearing about your problems helps.” She licked the salt off her margarita. “That doesn’t sound quite right but you two don’t know how much you’ve helped by giving me much-needed breaks from the devastation. I can always count on you for levity—or drama—to get my mind off my problems.”

  Alex raised her hand. “Drama provider here.”

  Suzy bobbed her head. “For some reason, here too.”

  Hope chuckled. “Sorry but it helps. I’m finally ready to talk about the aftermath. Our kids have really rallied to help the tornado victims. Habitat for Humanity has the experts but lets the kids help. In addition to students and faculty, tons of neighbors have volunteered.”

  “What a sense of community,” Suzy said. “That’s wonderful.”

  Hope nodded. “Definitely. Everyone has pitched in. I’ve never seen so many hammers, nails, and saws.” Hope wiped more tears off her cheeks. “This is the proudest I’ve been of the students in all my years at Hilltop. Well, this and when the students came to my aid after my parents—” Her voice wobbled. On the one hand, she could hardly wait to tell her friends her big news. After all, she was the one who asked them to meet. But Hope’s heart thrashed at the thought of Suzy and Alex’s reaction about Hilltop’s new janitor, a.k.a. Larry-Mac. What if they think I’m crazy? She stalled and took another drink.

  Suzy sipped her merlot. “The students are learning a great life lesson, teamwork, and actual skills. They’ll never forget this and neither will the neighbors.”

  “What’s the progress on the rebuilding of the demolished houses?” Alex asked.