The Reef

by Lois Kay

  With a few strides, Sam closed the distance. Before Jody could even blink her eyes, Sam was standing in front of her. One hand was on her shoulder, the other one was lifting her chin. “I'm sorry I made you feel that way. I truly am.” Sam had a pained looked in her eyes. “You’re absolutely right, I should have asked your opinion about it, instead of taking over like I’m in some damn boardroom. But it—,” she paused, looking for words. “I was so pissed off. And I was scared. Which is no excuse, of course, but—”

  Jody raised a hand and placed her fingers gently against Sam's lips, effectively silencing her. The storm clouds in her eyes had passed and Sam sighed with relief. “I understand, Sam. I just wanted you to know how I felt, since I'm as much involved in this as you are. I think this morning, when you were talking to Inspector Wong I realized there are parts of you I'm not familiar with yet." Jody smiled and her thumb traced the outline of Sam's lips. “I knew you could be stubborn, but I’ve never seen that…executive, business arrogance before. I guess I was blindsided by it. It was not the Sam I used to know."

  “To be honest, it's not really me at all.” Sam’s voice was gentle and held a trace of sadness. “It's more a role I play. I learned that an attitude like that usually impresses people and in business meetings that's a helpful skill to have. I'm sorry I surprised you with it. I didn't mean to, but at the time it seemed like the best way to handle it.”

  Jody grinned when she remembered the expression on Inspector Wong’s face when Sam told her the way things should be taken care of. “I'm sure the Inspector was as surprised as I was.” She laughed. “Did you see the look on her face? She was positively shocked.”

  Sam smiled and brushed back a strand of hair that had found its way across Jody's cheek. She leaned in and softly kissed her forehead. “It was quite effective,” she mumbled. Her lips slid down, placing kisses on Jody's eyebrows, eyes, and finally her nose. Jody leaned into the caresses, until their bodies touched and she felt Sam's arms tighten around her. With a happy sigh, she rested her head against a shoulder and closed her eyes, soaking up the loving tenderness she was receiving.

  “What do we do now, Sam?” she asked. “It's Monday. I should go back to work, but somehow I don't think you’d want me to.” She lifted her head to look up into Sam’s eyes. “To be honest, I don’t want to either.”

  “You're absolutely right,” Sam answered. “I'm sure they, whoever the heck they are, are keeping a close eye on The Reef. I don't want you near there. You do understand, don't you?"

  “I do,” Jody admitted. “But I should let Brian know I’m not coming in today.”

  “Give him a call,” Sam suggested. “Tell him they can reach you whenever there's a problem they can't solve themselves. Do you think he's capable of handling that?"

  “Yes, he is. He has covered for me before, but that was only for a day or two."

  “I’ll tell you what.” Sam placed her hands on Jody's shoulders and held her at arm’s length so she could look her in the eyes. “Since William Jenkins won't be coming back once we're through with him, why don't you give Brian the chance to become assistant manager? Now is the right time for him to prove his worth. Is there anyone you can give the position to he is in now?"

  “I…I guess,” Jody stammered. “But Sam…. that’s my job.” She let out a soft laugh. “Are you firing me?”

  Sam grinned. “I don't want to make your decisions for you. But we’ll need a new manager and if you want to stay at The Reef, well, I don't see why you couldn't fill that position."

  Jody narrowed her eyes. “You had all of this figured out already, didn't you?"

  “It's only a suggestion, honey, nothing else,” Sam said. “Whatever decision you’ll make, I support you.”

  Jody nodded and played with the top button of Sam’s shirt. Her eyes were looking anywhere but at Sam. “So, what about you? I…will you go back home while I…be the new manager?” Her unspoked fears must have showed, because Sam's eyes became very soft and gentle and she pulled Jody in a hug, holding her close.

  “I’m not sure how things will work out, but they will. And I promise I won't leave you, you’ll have to trust me. Once this mess we're in is cleared up, I want a life with you. I know there will be a few obstacles, but let’s cross those bridges when we reach them. Okay?"

  Jody nodded against her shoulder and Sam buried her face in hair that held a faint trace of lavender. When Jody's hands started wandering across her back and shoulders, Sam could feel their bodies melt even closer. She moved her head to gain access to a shapely ear and traced its shape with her lips, eliciting a very soft moan.

  “Wasn't there some unfinished business we had to take care of?” Sam's voice playfully rumbled.

  “Why am I not surprised you’re brining this up?” Jody pressed her lips against the soft skin of Sam's neck. “I’m afraid you’ll have to control yourself a bit longer, my love. I did hear Sarah mention something about fixing lunch and I don't think you’d be pleased to be interrupted by a lunch call.” Jody paused and experimentally nipped the base of Sam’s neck. The gasp that followed made her grin. “I know I wouldn’t want to be interrupted.”

  Sam traced a path across Jody's cheek, aiming for her lips. “I have to admit I’m starving, though.”

  “Why is it I’ve got the impression you’re not talking about food?” Jody smiled. “I think that—”

  But she was silenced by Sam’s lips that hungrily captured hers. All thoughts vanished when Jody felt Sam's probing lips and when an impatient tongue sought entrance, she willingly provided access. Her hands traveled up to Sam's neck, pulling her even closer. With a thundering heart her world spun out of control, until there was only Sam and nothing or nobody else. Abruptly, the kiss ended and Sam stepped back, leaving Jody dazed and slightly out of breath.

  “Didn’t you mention lunch?” Sam licked her lips and Jody could only stare. It took her at least a full minute to regain her composure.

  “Paybacks,” is all she said, before turning around, leaving a grinning Sam behind.

  ***

  The door closed with a soft click and with slumped shoulders and sad eyes Joan McDonnell started her journey back through the long hallway, heading for her car that was parked close to the hospital’s entrance. Her slow steps echoed against the empty walls, in sync with the dull ache she felt. It was like an iron chain was wrapped around her heart, clenching tighter with every heartbeat. It chilled her from the inside out and made her feel lost, like she was drifting on a vast ocean of unfamiliar feelings, with no safe harbor in sight.

  Her visit had been anything but pleasant and she left with a long list of do's and don’ts, which she knew she couldn't live up to. Not anymore. The future weighed heavy on her shoulders and even though she knew that there were decisions to be made, somehow, her brain refused to cooperate. The only thing she could think of was her husband's cold determination when telling her not to visit Jody. Ever.

  Joan McDonnell felt cold when she realized what her husband's reaction would be when he found out she was disobeying him. During their entire twenty-nine years of marriage he had only raised his hand against her once, genuinely regretting that action immediately, but she knew he wouldn't hesitate to hit her again. He had changed so much.

  “Mom.” A familiar voice interrupted Joan’s thoughts and her eyes brightened at the sight of Lucy who rounded a corner and hurried toward her.

  “Lucy.” She smiled and felt a comforting warmth spreading through her body.

  Lucy threw one arm around her shoulders and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. “Did you escape the lion's den?" Lucy joked, seeing the tired expression on her mother's face. “How is grumpy?”

  In the past, Joan McDonnell would have told her daughter to speak about her father with more respect, but she couldn't muster up the courage or the strength anymore to do that. So, she let the remark slide, something that didn’t go unnoticed. “Your father is recovering quickly.” Joan’s voice was devoid of any emotion.
“The doctor says he’ll be able to go home soon.”

  Lucy studied Joan’s face. “You look thrilled about the prospect. What's going on? What are you thinking, Mom?"

  Joan McDonnell swallowed away the lump in her throat and tried to avoid a pair of dark-green eyes that were searching her face for an answer. “Your father told me not to go and see Jody again. He was very determined about it.” Lucy could clearly hear the bitterness in her voice.

  “That's not his decision to make, Mom.” Lucy squeezed her mother's shoulder. “Jody is your daughter as well. He has no right to tell you what to do. How long are you willing to put up with this?”

  Joan McDonnell didn't answer right away and Lucy could see the muscles in her jaw clench. She had always known her mother to be a gentle person, very slow to anger and the times she had lost her temper could be counted on one hand. But Lucy recognized the signs of anger effortlessly. She put her hand on her mother's arm and stopped her, turning her so she could face her. “I don't want to stir up any trouble between you and Dad, because I have no right to do so,” she said. Her eyes softened when she saw the pain in her mother's. “But Mom, it’s okay to be angry. You have every right to be. It's not healthy to bottle it all up inside. You must let it out, one way or the other. And I don't care how you do it, but I really think you should."

  “I don't know if I can, honey.” Joan sighed and rubbed her forehead. It was a gesture that was so much like Jody Lucy smiled. “It might be too much. It frightens me."

  The last three words were nothing but a whisper and Lucy felt a stab of pain when she realized how lonely and lost her mother sounded. “Oh, Mom, come here.” She pulled Joan into a hug. “Is there anything I can do for you? Anything at all?”

  “Well, there’s one thing, actually,” Joan answered. “Could you pick up Fiona from school? There are some things I have to take care of.”

  Lucy smiled. “Talking about my twin. She’s the reason I’m here. Jody called me and asked me to tell you what happened this morning. Listen—”

  Chapter 16

  With an impatient gesture, Brian O'Connor tossed a pile of documents in one of the drawers that were hidden behind the counter of the reception desk. A quick glance at the clock taught him it was only three minutes later than the previous time he had checked the time. With a sigh, he glanced at his watch to make sure the clock was telling the truth and a worried frown creased his forehead when he realized it did. Jody was never late for work and he had to try hard to push away the awful scenario's that came to mind. His manager's behavior the day before had worried him a great deal and ever since William Jenkins’s brief visit he had wanted to talk to Jody about it. His thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of the telephone and automatically his hand picked up the receiver.

  “Good morning. The Reef, Brian O' Conner speaking. How may I help you?”

  “Hi, Brian, it's me, Jody.”

  “Jody,” Brian breathed. “I’m so relieved to hear your voice. I was worried about you. Is everything okay?”

  “I’m fine Brian,” Jody answered. “I wanted you to know I won’t be coming in today, or tomorrow.”

  “Are you finally taking some time off?” Brian had meant to sound lighthearted but the concern in his voice was evident.

  “What's wrong, Brian?” Jody asked. “Did something happen?”

  “The boss was here yesterday,” Brian blurted. “He’s got the copy of…Jennifer DeWit’s employee ID. I don't know what's going on, Jody, but I don't trust him. He had this strange look on his face.”

  “He took Sam’s picture?” Jody sounded surprised.

  “I didn't want to give it to him, Jody, but he threatened to fire me.” Brian’s voice was subdued. “I’m really sorry.”

  “Don’t worry about it. I understand. There wasn’t much you could have done about it anyway.”

  “What's going on Jody?”

  “I can't tell you right now, Brian, but I want you to keep your ears and eyes open. Whenever you see or hear something out of the ordinary, anything, call me. Okay?”

  “Sure, of course.”

  “Listen, Brian, I won't be in for a few more days, maybe even longer. I want you to cover for me. I feel like I’m throwing you off the deep end, but I have faith in you. You can do this. Ask Miriam to take your place, she'll jump at the chance. Sam asked me to tell you there's a raise coming with the new responsibilities."

  “Do you really think Mr. Jensen will approve of that?”

  Jody chuckled. “I think Sam Stevens trumps our boss any given day. But don’t worry. Sam’s already contacted the corporate office to inform them of the change.”

  “Wow. Okay, then. I’m not sure whether to be pleased or worried. If I run into something I won't be able to handle, can I call you?”

  “Of course, please, do. But I know you’ll do a good job.”

  “Thanks, Jody. Your confidence in me means a lot. I’ve got one more question, though. Since you won't be here, who's going to handle the paychecks?”

  “That’s already been taken care of, Brian. Corporate took care of it. The paystubs might be a bit later than usual, but you can tell everybody their salary will be in their accounts on time.”

  “Jody, is The Reef in trouble? I mean, do I have to start looking for another job?” It was meant to be a joke, but Jody could hear the anxiety in his voice.

  “No, The Reef will be okay, don't worry.”

  Brian breathed in relief. “Thank goodness. Well, I'll do my best to run this place as smoothly as you do.”

  “I know you will, Brian. Thank you. I’ve got to go now, but I’ll call you tomorrow for an update. Alright? And don’t hesitate to call.” Jody paused for a moment. “Tell Chris I said ‘hi’. I’ll talk to you soon.”

  “I will, boss lady. Thanks.”

  Brian put down the phone and stared at the fountain that was the center of the huge lobby. His eyes didn't register the pretty sight in front of him, because his brain was processing what Jody had told him. It had not been necessary for her to tell him something was going on with William Jenkins. He had sensed that the moment the manager had demanded the copy of Jennifer DeWit’s, well, Samantha Stevens employee ID.

  Brian sighed and scratched the back of his neck. He mentally made a list of all the things he had to do. First, he had to call Miriam Gonzalez, one of the chambermaids. Ever since she injured her leg in a biking accident, Jody had occasionally let her work the reception desk, to give her a much-needed break. Brian suspected she would be very pleased with the change in responsibilities. Not to mention the raise. Miriam's husband owned a small banana plantation. They had three children and could barely make ends meet. Brian smiled when he imagined Miriam's surprise when she’d hear about what he was about to tell her.

  * * *

  Megan yawned, which caused her jaw to make a popping noise. She plopped down on the bed and stretched her tired muscles.

  Sarah, who was changing into a comfortable shirt shook her head. “Good grief, Megs. If I didn't know better, I'd think you spent the day doing hard labor.”

  “Such as?” Meghan drawled. She quirked an eyebrow and looked at Sarah from underneath her dark eyelashes.

  “Oh, I don't know.” Sarah was amused by her partner’s obvious fatigue. “Shoveling sand? Digging holes? Chopping down half a forest?”

  “Oh, you’re such a comedian.” Megan yawned again and rolled onto her side, supporting her head with her hand. “You know, you definitely are the funniest person in the universe. It must have escaped your attention, but I did help Fiona with that awful math assignment.”

  “Worn out by the homework of a fourteen-year-old.” Sarah laughed. “I guess that makes sense, since your high school days are in a distant past, my love.”

  Meghan grinned and watched how Sarah punched her pillow to get it into the desired shape, before crawling into bed.

  “I'm not taking the bait,” she replied. “Besides, you're two years older than I am so—”

&nbs
p; Sarah smiled and there was a glint in her grey eyes Megan knew all too well. She rolled over to face Megan, who stared back at her with an innocent expression on her face.

  “You’d better turn off the light,” Sarah said. “After all, people my age really need their sleep. Especially, if I want to keep up with you.”

  “Mm, you do have a point,” Megan replied. “But before you go to sleep I wanted to ask you if you're really okay with Fiona staying here as well?"

  Sarah looked surprised. “Of course, I am. Why wouldn't I be? Jody and Sam are our friends and I’m glad we’re able to help them out. Fiona can stay as long as she needs to. I like the brat, she's so much like Lucy.”

  “I was wondering,” Meghan continued. “I don’t want it to be too much for you, considering your age.”

  Sarah grinned when it dawned on her that Meghan had been teasing her all along and with a quick movement she flipped Megan over and pinned her to the bed. “Honey, I think it's about time to settle this age thing once and for all.”

  Megan stared into the face that was so close. She had to resist the urge to kiss the lips that were hovering over her own. Sarah’s eyes were sparkling and her body was shaking with silent laughter.

  “I think that’s an excellent idea,” Megan said. She tugged Sarah’s shirt. “But aren't you a bit overdressed for the occasion?”

  Sarah glanced down, looking at her t-shirt and panties, before locking her gaze on Meghan's again. She narrowed her eyes. “I’m pretty sure you’ll be able to take care of that,” she whispered seductively, before she brought their lips together.

  ***

  The large office was air conditioned and cool enough to wear a jacket to be comfortable. It was the way Joe Michaels preferred it. He always told his staff that a low temperature made his brain work faster. And fast it was, as he was explaining his plans to the three men who were sitting opposite him in the low chairs that were forming a half circle in front of his huge desk.