“Welcome to Kai’s Broadway bridal shower.” Marina waved a group of women into the Coral Cafe.
Billie, Jen, and Leilani had done a marvelous job of decorating in such a short time, but then they’d also raided the costume and prop storage at the theater. Many were already in costume.
“Right this way,” Heather said. She wore a jaunty little usher’s cap over her long hair.
“The hat looks better on you,” Marina said. Hers kept slipping off.
“I have bobby pins that hold it on. You can have a couple.” Heather dipped her mother’s cap to the side and pinned it. “And it looks better at an angle.”
Marina glanced at her reflection in a window. The theater usher costume consisted of a red jacket with black slacks. It was fun to dress up, and it put everyone in a party mood. “Much better, thanks. Kai will make you wardrobe master in no time.”
Straightening her jacket, Heather laughed. “No thanks. I have enough work.”
“Ethan mentioned you have a new internship.”
“He wasn’t supposed to say anything yet.” With a happy, secretive look, Heather added, “It’s not even final, but I’ll tell you later. Here, take some programs.”
Marina began passing out programs in the style of the iconic Playbill often distributed in theaters. Kai’s Broadway Bridal Shower was printed on the front. Inside was the menu and a list of performers. Heather had used her graphic skills to create and print the program just this morning.
Marina had planned the late lunch as a buffet with chilled shrimp cocktails, avocado toast points, and street tacos with mango salsa. Cold avocado gazpacho and a salad bar rounded out the light, easy fare.
On such short notice, Ginger and Brooke had pitched in to help prepare the luncheon, and Marina had brought in her new extra staff. They’d done a lot of the prep work in Ginger’s kitchen during the lunch run at the cafe. The food was ready just in time, but just barely. Still, that was half the fun, Ginger insisted.
Ivy and Shelly were among the first to arrive, along with several of Kai’s theater friends—women and men—from Los Angeles.
“Wow, how fancy,” Shelly said, gazing around.
Props and mementos from the theater were placed around the patio. Painted scene pieces of shopfronts, giant gift boxes, and a faux palm tree decorated with beach ornaments made up the eclectic decorations.
“And just look at the tables,” Ivy added.
On every table were flowers from Blossoms flower stand. Imani, the proprietor, had arrived early to arrange the flowers. Ginger had contributed her vintage crystal, silver, and china place settings. They had mixed patterns for a festive cottage look. Leilani had placed buckets of flowering plants on the patio, creating a lush oasis.
On another table, guests had piled up gifts. Kai didn’t have much more than clothes to take to Axe’s bungalow because she’d been living out of suitcases for years. Still, Ginger had a few things set aside for her.
Axe’s small home near the village was well-maintained, though he’d invested his money in building his construction business, along with his other dream, the amphitheater.
Wearing a short, Hawaiian floral-print dress and a flower lei, Kai hurried toward the group, her arms held wide. “I’m so glad you all made it,” she exclaimed amidst a flurry of air kisses and hugs. She clasped hands with a new arrival, a twenty-something version of herself, a slender women with a similar mane of blond hair. “Especially you, Madison. You were the best understudy I ever had.”
The younger woman beamed. “When you left so suddenly, I got my shot at your part, so I’ll always be grateful to you for that.”
“It was time to bow out and start a new chapter,” Kai said happily.
Marina knew it hadn’t been quite that seamless of a professional exit for her sister, but this was no time to bring up Kai’s ex, Dmitri. Madison had been thoughtful about that. And Kai seemed unbothered by that now.
“Now you can meet everyone.” Kai waved across the cafe, which Marina had closed after the lunch crowd for the party. “Billie, look who just drove in.”
Her friends exchanged hugs, and laughter swept through the throng of people. Madison had driven with several others from the cast that Kai had been a part of. They’d performed and traveled together for years.
“We want to meet Axe,” Madison said eagerly. “Only you would meet a singing Montana cowboy on the beach.”
Billie arched an eyebrow. “He’s hot, too.”
“You’ll get your chance.” Kai grinned as she flung her arms around her friends. “We’ll all meet at Spirits & Vine after the party. He might have a couple friends with him, too.”
“Single?”
“Many are.” Kai winked. “And you must all stay for our opening night at the Seashell. It’s the world premiere of our Belles on the Beach.”
“We wouldn’t miss it,” Madison said. “We’re all piling into rooms at the Seabreeze Inn.”
They went on to talk about other mutual friends. Most everyone in this crowd had known Dmitri, the man Kai had been engaged to before. Marina was glad no one mentioned the New York producer. She couldn’t imagine how Kai might have ever been happy with him.
Axe, on the other hand, was a generous, warm-hearted man who shared Kai’s love of performing. Hearing them sing duets on a starry night at the Seashell was magical. They had truly found their calling—and found each other.
Marina enjoyed chatting with Kai’s friends who had performed Broadway hits across the country. They were all as different as they could be, but every one of them was a talented, hard-working actor. Soon, they were all talking and laughing.
A few minutes later, Marina tapped a glass with a spoon to get everyone’s attention. “We have appetizers and drinks available for anyone who’s parched and hungry.”
“That would be me,” Madison said. “But Kai, you have to go first.”
As the women fell in line at the buffet table, Ginger made her entrance from the cottage. She wore a long floral hostess dress with layered strands of turquoise necklaces.
Kai proudly tucked her arm through Ginger’s. “You’ve all heard me talk about my grandmother. This is the fabulous Ginger Delavie, to whom my sisters and I owe everything.”
Ginger kissed Kai’s cheek. “My dear, you would have done it on your own—with or without me. You’re the indomitable trio.”
“Where do you think we got that from?” Brooke asked.
Marina laughed with her. The three of them had followed different paths and had different styles, but here they were, reunited at last.
Soon all the guests had filled their plates and sat down to eat under the coral umbrellas. Marina was pleased that Kai’s guests enjoyed the food.
When they had finished eating, Billie tapped her glass for attention. “For Kai’s bridal shower, Broadway has come to Summer Beach. Since we’re all sisters here, let’s kick this off with a number from Hamilton!”
Cheers went up, and at that, three women dressed in period costumes emerged from the rear of the cottage where Marina had set up dressing rooms in Ginger’s den and Bertrand’s old library, which still held the faint aroma of his vanilla pipe tobacco.
One of Kai’s friends had arranged the music, and he cranked up a tune. The trio burst into song, belting out their version of “Helpless.”
Cheers went up from the crowd, and soon people were singing along. Next, one of the couples from Los Angeles took their places and sang a love song from West Side Story, “Somewhere (There’s A Place For Us).”
Then, more friends spilled out with other songs until everyone was on their feet, clapping for Kai until she joined them in the last song. It was from The Lion King, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” Soon, they were all swaying in song.
Marina loved seeing Kai in her element. “She’s incredibly talented,” she said to Ginger and Brooke. She was also eager to see the new production Kai and Axe had been working on. “She’s really coming into her own now with her writing and directing.”
Ginger smiled and pressed her palms together. “Kai is a treasure, but each one of you is just as talented in your chosen specialty.” She beamed at them. “My three wonderful granddaughters.”
“Don’t forget the next generation,” Brooke said. “Looks like Oakley has his great-grandmother’s aptitude for math.”
“Indeed he does,” Ginger said, pride evident in her voice. “You’ve done a fine job of encouraging him. I’ll bet he’d be fascinated with codes and ciphers. Why, I should teach all of them, including the upcoming addition to the family, young Leo.” She smiled at Marina. “What maturity he has.”
Marina knew the reason for that. Vanessa was a wonderful mother, but having to endure her illness and meeting the father he had never known had given Leo a level of maturity beyond his years. Maybe that’s why he’d had the foresight to read his father’s mind and propose to her. And perhaps that proposal wasn’t as impetuous as it seemed.
More than anything, Marina wanted Leo to enjoy being a carefree little boy. Most days, running on the beach with Scout was all he needed to bring a smile to his face, yet Marina resolved to be the best stepmother he could want.
When the entertainment concluded, Marina excused herself to check on the food. Kai hooked her arm in Marina’s and went with her. “This party is wonderful, and it means the world to me. Thank you for turning all this out on such short notice.”
“I had a lot of help, but for you, anything,” Marina said. And she meant it. She wanted Kai to go into her marriage in the happiest frame of mind.
Kai followed her into the kitchen. “What are we going to do for your bridal shower?”
Marina brought out a dessert tray of chocolate mousse in miniature glasses and a bowl of whipped cream she’d prepared earlier. “Now that I’m officially engaged to Jack and Leo?”
“Leo is adorable,” Kai said. “Oh, my gosh, if he’d asked me, I think I would say yes, too. Axe would have been so disappointed, but how could anyone say no to that little man?”
Marina shook her head, still marveling at the boy’s actions. “Actually, what I said was yeesy Louisey, but that was good enough for Leo.”
“And Jack, evidently,” Kai added, smiling. “So, should we plan a shower for you soon?”
“I don’t need one, but it’s nice of you to think about it. Jack and I have everything we need.” As they spoke, Marina spooned whipped cream onto the chocolate mousse dessert cups.
Kai perched on a stool beside the kitchen counter. “Any mention of a ring yet?”
“A simple band will do. I have my hands in all sorts of food all day long, remember?” That’s what she’d worn with Stan, and she’d been happy with that.
Kai’s face fell. “I’m sure he’s going to do something else for you.”
“We’re in a different place than you and Axe. We have children to think of first.”
At that, Kai’s eyes widened. “Are you thinking of having more?”
Marina nudged her. “Bite your tongue.”
“What? All I’m saying is, it’s still possible, right?”
“Technically, I suppose. But no. We’re done.”
Kai’s eyes twinkled, and she picked up a dessert. “We’ll see about that.”
Marina was eager to change the subject. “And you and Axe?”
“That’s going to be a surprise.” Kai picked up a spoon and dug into the creamy chocolate. “Oh, this is fabulous.”
Marina plopped a dollop of whipped cream on the small glass. “Like your wedding date? People need to know when it is so they can plan. There’s not much time left this summer.”
Kai smiled impishly, ignoring her as she scooped out the chocolate and cream. “Yum, this is delicious.”
“The date, Kai. You were the one who wanted to move everything up.” Marina frowned while her sister continued to avoid the question. “Has something happened?”
Kai finished the dessert with one big spoonful and put the glass down. “I’m not worried. I’m sure everyone will be there.”
That made no sense to Marina. “Are you planning some sort of flash mob wedding on Main Street? Or at the beach?”
Kai snapped her fingers. “Not a bad idea…” With a mysterious smile, she swung around and made her way back to her guests.
By the time the party had moved to Spirits & Vine on Main Street, everyone was having a wonderful time. Marina stepped inside the busy wine bar and followed Kai to where Axe had already staked out a section for them.
She’d already changed from the usher costume she’d worn at Kai’s shower. That had been a fun outfit, though a little warm in the summer sun. The bright yellow dress she’d paired with multi-colored wedges lifted her spirits even more. From cooking for loved ones to chatting with friends and family, it had been a nearly perfect day.
“Marina, over here.” Jack waved from the long end of a table, where he sat with a glass of red wine and a charcuterie board in front of him.
“I didn’t know you’d be here.” She was delighted to see him.
He gave her a soft kiss. “Thought I might surprise you. In a good way, this time. I think I’m going to be apologizing for standing you up at dinner for a long time.”
She twined her fingers with his. “The barbecue the other night was a good start.”
“Ah, Leo, what a kid. I promise I didn’t put him up to that. I’m not that smart.” He drew his brow in concern. “Are you sure you don’t want to reconsider? I know I’m not the best prize, and I heard about the new doctor giving you a lift home.”
Her senses prickled around her neck, and she sighed. Was his old habit of avoidance returning? “What if I decide not to let you out of that promise?”
Relief flooded his face. “You really mean it?”
“I wouldn’t have said yes if I didn’t mean it.”
“Well, now that you mention it, who’s Louise?”
At the next table, the owner of the Laundry Basket looked up, and Jack put up his hands. “Sorry, I didn’t mean you, Louise.”
“You’re impossible.” Marina jabbed him playfully in the ribs. “I’m giving you thirty seconds to put a glass of wine in front of me, or I’m moving on. Even if you are the best-looking guy here.” Marina folded her arms and let her gaze trail over him. What he did to a white knit shirt shouldn’t be allowed. Jack wasn’t only running on the beach; he looked like he’d been lifting something much heavier than a sketch pencil or a keyboard.
Jack quickly pushed his glass toward her and signaled the waiter. “The bridal shower must have been a tough tour of duty.”
Marina chuckled and leaned toward him. If they could keep laughing through mishaps, they’d have a chance. Life was never smooth.
Jack swept his arm around her and gave her a light, feathery kiss. “I’ll do my best not to let you down. I can’t say I won’t because life gets in the way sometimes, but I’ll try every day.” He went on, nuzzling her neck. “I love you, Marina. More than I ever thought possible. I’m the luckiest guy in the world.”
These were the words she loved to hear. But before she could respond, Kai and her friends joined them at the table, and the party continued.
A little later, after finishing their wine and the charcuterie board, Jack took her hand. “I was going to wait, but I have something I want to share with you sooner rather than later. Will you come back to the house with me?”
Marina agreed, curious as to what it might be. They walked back to Jack’s cottage by the sea. As they approached the front porch, heavy metal music blasted behind the house.
“Someone’s having a party.” Marina nodded toward a police cruiser that had just turned onto the street. “It almost sounds like it’s coming from your place.”
Jack scrubbed his chin. “Probably my short-term tenants in the studio. They’ll be gone soon, but they’ve been a problem.”
“Do you have to rent out that unit?”
“It helps. I’d better tell them to turn down the music. A neighbor probably called the police again.”
“Bet that’s making you popular.”
Marina could feel the base throbbing. So could the neighbors, she imagined. The cruiser stopped in front of the house, and the imposing form of Chief Clarkson stepped from the vehicle.
“I can guess why you’re here.” Jack looked sheepish. “I’ve been away, but I’ll tell the guys to turn down the music.”
“We can’t make this a habit,” Clark said. “Your neighbors deserve better.”
“They’re just a bunch of guys here to surf and have a good time. I didn’t think this would be a problem, but I’ll tell them right now.”
“This time, I’ll go with you.” The chief hitched up his belt full of gear.
Jack opened the door, and they walked through the bungalow. Scout was whimpering in a corner of the kitchen, and Marina knelt to console him.
“Poor baby, that music is too loud for you, isn’t it?” She’d talked Jack into installing a doggie door in the kitchen for Scout. Even the dog needed some peace and quiet.
She wondered how long Jack would want to rent the rear studio. While she could appreciate the extra income, she preferred having privacy. Especially if the guests were all of this ilk.
While Jack and the chief continued through to the rear yard, Marina turned to look for a treat in the kitchen for Scout. She shoved aside empty cereal boxes and dirty dishes.
“Look at this mess,” she muttered.
Besides the kitchen disaster, Jack looked like he’d been working in the kitchen for some reason. His laptop computer and drawing material were strewn across the kitchen table. The curtains were drawn.
Scout whimpered as if in guilty agreement.
“Not you, boy.” Gingerly, she shoved aside a stack of old pizza boxes. Now she knew what Jack ate when he wasn’t at the cafe.
Dirty dishes filled the sink, too. From the looks of it, he’d been making eggs. And pancakes. She wrinkled her nose. The stovetop, the oven, the refrigerator—all of it needed a good cleaning. And the floor.
She’d been so busy that she hadn’t been here in some time. A box of dog treats sat next to a macaroni-and-cheese mix. She pulled out a crunchy bone and gave it to Scout, who gobbled it up in one bite.
With Jack still outside, Marina walked through the house, wondering if the rest of it was a mess, too.
The living room wasn’t too bad. Just stacks of books and mail, although most of it hadn’t been opened, even bills, which struck her as careless. Jack’s room had dirty laundry everywhere, and the small black-and-white hexagonal tiles in the bathrooms needed a good scrubbing. A mound of damp towels lay in the corner. She wrinkled her nose at the sour odor.
She peeked into Leo’s room, which wouldn’t win any awards for cleanliness either, but he was still a child. There was a pathway to his bed through the toys and dirty clothes.
With some dismay, she realized this was how Jack really lived. Not that she was a neat freak, and she certainly hadn’t thought he was, but his habits were far worse than she’d thought.
Jack clearly didn’t understand the basics of picking up after himself—or teaching his son to do that. He must have stashed the mess when she’d been over before, but most of the time he went to the cafe or met her at her house.
As Marina walked back into the living room, her gaze fell on a torn shipping box on the table by the stack of mail. A faded, red velvet jewelry container sat next to it. Intrigued, she walked toward it and rested her fingers lightly on what looked like a vintage ring box. She was dying to open it.
Maybe this is why he’d brought her back here.
The loud, thumping music suddenly ceased. Glancing around to make sure she was still alone, Marina surveyed the overall state of the house, and her heart fell.
An alarm of warning clanged in her mind.
She drew her hand back as sharply as she’d snatched it from the fire the other night. The scope of responsibility that would rest on her shoulders dawned on her.
At once, the memory of all the years of cleaning up after her children came rushing back. She’d taught Heather and Ethan to care for their home, even though their apartment overlooking the San Francisco Bay had been smaller than this. It hadn’t been easy, but they’d managed.
When the twins left for college, her workload had plummeted. The apartment was too quiet then, but she didn’t miss falling into bed at midnight after doing laundry for school the next day. Not when she had to rise by four to make it to the studio for the morning broadcast. Makeup, concealer, and coffee had figured prominently in her daily arsenal for years.
Just thinking about those hardships quickened her breath. Was this a chapter she wanted to reopen? Of course, there had been joy as well, but she’d worked so hard for so many years that running a cafe seemed fun and easy in comparison.
And this situation was worse. Jack was a grown man who appeared to have no inclination to lift a finger. Who’d never stayed in one place long enough to call it home or care for it, she realized. No doubt, it would be up to her to oversee everything. Is this how she wanted to spend the rest of her life?
Scout trotted to her and sat on her feet, looking up with expectation.
Marina reached down to stroke his snout. “And I bet you’re hungry.”
He brushed his head against her legs as if she’d understood his need. She rubbed Scout’s neck, feeling bad for the poor pup. The memory of the tacos drenched in hot sauce came to mind as well.
Maybe she’d been blinded by Jack’s professional accomplishments and smooth words. By comparison, Stan had been in the military; he made a neater bed than she did.
Marina backed away from the table just as Jack and Clark came through the kitchen doorway.
“I’ll be on my way,” the chief said as he made his way toward the front door. “Good to see you, Marina.”
“Likewise, Clark.”
Jack shut the door behind him. “I don’t think we’ll have any more trouble with those guys tonight.” His gaze darted to the ring box on the table. “We can sit on the couch, and I’ll open the windows for a view of the ocean. Would you like another glass of wine?”
Marina pressed her lips together. Being in love with Jack and actually living with Jack might be two very different things. She’d come so far in creating the life she wanted in Summer Beach. Was she ready to walk away and spend the rest of it picking up the dirty socks of a careless slob?
As bright as Jack might be, she had her standards. Ginger’s advice floated to mind.
“I should go.” Leaving Jack with his mouth agape, she turned toward the door and hurried down the porch steps. She realized she was much like her grandmother after all.
Standards, and all that.
While Marina fled into the night toward her home, she could hear the music cranking up again.