“Okay.”
Abby pulled the letter out and read it out loud.
“For starters this Maxine has beautiful penmanship.”
I tapped my fingers on the counter, waiting for her to begin.
“Alright already. I’m reading.”
‘Dear, Payton. I should begin by introducing myself. My name is Maxine Waters. You don’t know me very well, but you were once married to my fiancé, Jack. I’m sure the last thing you would expect is to receive a letter from someone like myself, but I’m in quite a predicament and I could really use your help. I found your name on some old bills stored away in his files. That coupled with the fact that he shared that you moved back to Pelican Beach made it easy for me to look you up. Please don’t be offended. I promise not to make a habit of contacting you often. The reason I’m writing is that Jack and I are within ninety days of being married. However, to say he’s struggling with his health and mental well-being would be an understatement. I accepted his proposal and vowed to be with him even through the toughest of times. However, recent concerns about Jack’s past have surfaced and there are a lot of questions that Jack won’t answer. I’m almost certain you can help fill in the gaps. Questions regarding gambling and perhaps even questionable relationships. Again, I realize this may be a bit much to receive in a letter from a woman you don’t know, but I’m in desperate search of the truth, and I have a decision to make within the next ninety days. Talking to you could be just what I need to help give me peace and put my mind at ease. Please consider reaching out to the number I’ve included below. If I don’t hear from you, I’ll understand that as well. Sincerely, Maxine.’
“Oh…my… goodness! Are you serious? Payton, I swear that meeting Jack was the worst thing that ever happened to you. It’s like he never goes away. One way or another, he always squirms his way back into your life.”
“Gee, thanks, Abby. You think I would’ve ever married him if I knew all the drama he would cause?”
“Of course not, but still. You have to admit this is getting to be over the top.”
“You think? I showed it to Cole, and he about lost his mind. He already had me beef up the security cameras the last time Jack showed up at the store.”
“So you told Cole? That’s a good thing. I would imagine he’s not a fan of you responding to this letter, right?”
“Right, and that makes two of us. I don’t want to have anything to do with it. I felt sorry for the girl when I read it, but that’s their situation and not mine. I have a family and two babies on the way, and my primary concern is safely delivering these babies with no issues along the way. That’s it.”
“Good. Keep it that way. Wow, this just goes to show you how jacked up his life was. No pun intended.”
“You’re such a goofball, Abby.”
“Thanks!”
“Jack hasn’t been on the straight and narrow for a long time. I’m questioning if I ever knew the real Jack or if it was all a facade.”
“I don’t know, Payton, but I say let the past stay right where it belongs. Where’s your trash can?”
“Right over here.”
“Good. Let’s just place this bad boy in the circular file and move on with our lives. Now, on to better news,” Abby said.
“Yes, please shower me with some good news.”
“Remember on Christmas night when Dad played their favorite song on the record player?”
“Yes.”
“Mom told me ever since then she’s been playing some of their favorite songs, hoping it would jog his memory. Last night she stumbled on the song Dad played on the day he proposed. When she played it, she said he lit up with a smile, and he kissed her ring finger. Payton, sometimes I really believe there’s hope for him yet. I know what the doctors say, but I also know what I feel in my heart.”
“Abby, that’s amazing. We just have to remain hopeful and take things one day at a time. It’s the same way Dad is dealing with it. One day at a time, right?”
“You’re right.”
Abby held her arms open wide.
“Where would we be without each other, Payton? Where would we be without our family?”
“I don’t even want to consider the thought. I love you, Sis.”
Abby poked my little baby bump. “And Aunty Abby loves you, too, baby beans.”
Collectively, we all agreed on at least one resolution that year. It was to bury the things that served no purpose and invest in the hope of what lies ahead. We were all looking forward to what was on the horizon. Not just the new year itself, but for me, new life.
Also by Michele Gilcrest
Sunrise At Pelican Beach: Book Five
Ready to spend more time in Pelican Beach? CLICK HERE to read the next book in the series!
* * *
In her ladder years, she's feisty, a free spirit, and rebukes the idea of playing by the rules…
He's attracted to her fiery personality but hesitant to reveal his true feelings. He's younger, a traveling business owner, and until now only made time for work.
Will Jolene’s admirer captivate her heart and spark a flame of love? If he does, will she even notice or will her desire to return to her hometown cloud her vision and cause her to miss out on love?
If Jolene's life wasn't filled with enough drama, then there's Payton. Payton is happily married, a mother to a lovely step-daughter with twins on the way, and the owner of a thriving photography shop. At forty-three years of age, she's accomplished more than she could ever dream of. But, even with all the bliss, there's still an unresolved matter that keeps lingering in the back of her mind. It's a letter she received from her ex-husband's fiancé. When the letter arrived, Payton was determined that it belonged in the trash and out of her life. But why was she struggling to forget the letter inquiring about her ex-husbands past? Does Payton secretly believe she can spare this woman from marrying a cheater and liar?
As always Payton's sisters will advise and offer support, but what will her husband, Cole, think if she decides to get involved?
In book five, the Matthews are back with more drama and more sweet love. Pack your bags with this clean romance and get ready for another trip to Pelican Beach!
* * *
Beachfront Inheritance: Book One
CLICK HERE to check out my NEW beach series!
* * *
She's single, out of a job, and has a week to decide what to do with her life.
* * *
Clara’s boss, Joan Russell, was a wealthy owner of a beachfront mansion, who recently passed away. Joan’s estranged family members have stepped in, eager to collect their inheritance and dismiss Clara of her duties.
* * *
Clara dedicated the last ten years of her life to serving Mrs. Russell as her housekeeper and dear friend. Her services are terminated, and it's now time for her to start life over again. As she prepares to move out of her living quarters, there are many thoughts racing through her mind. What will she do with her career? Where will she live? Clara knew she would have to face these questions eventually, but she didn’t expect her time with Mrs. Russell to come to such an abrupt end.
* * *
With the clock winding down, will Clara find a job and make a new life for herself on Solomons Island? Will she ever settle down and meet the man of her dreams? Or will Clara have to do the unthinkable and return home to a family who barely cares for her existence?
Embark on a journey of trials, triumph, and sweet romance. Pick up your copy today!
* * *
Also By Michele Gilcrest
* * *
Pelican Beach Series
The Inn At Pelican Beach: Book 1
Sunsets At Pelican Beach: Book 2
A Pelican Beach Affair: Book 3
Christmas At Pelican Beach: Book 4
Sunrise At Pelican Beach: Book 5
* * *
Cortland Series
Second Time Around: Book 1
Tried and True : Book
2
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Christmas At Pelican Beach (Pelican Beach Book 4) Page 13
