Chapter Fourteen
Lena
I run all the way back to the boardwalk, feet splashing in puddles, rain running down the back of my neck.
But I can’t run away from the emotions churning inside of me.
Cade’s kiss was marvelous. And even though I thought I’ve come to terms with my spinsterhood, there’s a part of me that aches to fall in love again.
Therein lies the reason for my tears.
I’ve fallen for a man I know is wrong for me. He’s smart and funny. He’s been through trials much harder than the Mermaid Bay Legacy Tour. But Cade will never choose me over his father, his family’s business, or his legacy. And I wouldn’t ask him to.
I stumble, sobbing, and slow to a walk.
That’s when I notice there’s an ambulance in front of the Barnacle Diner.
Drenched, teary-eyed, defeated, I don’t want to see anyone but I can’t pass by without seeing if I can be of assistance. I push through the diner’s door to an unaccustomed hush.
“It’s Dee.” Marina moves to my side. She looks as wet and windblown as I am. “She’s had a heart attack. Or maybe a stroke.”
The paramedics are getting Dee situated on a gurney in the kitchen.
I go cold inside. This is just what Cade predicted. Dee needs to retire but I’m certain all her money is tied up in the Barnacle Diner. If she’s had a stroke, her medical bills will cost a fortune. She needs to sell.
And Cade is well-positioned to buy her out.
My breath catches.
“Trouble’s got to you, hasn’t he?” Marina draws me over to a booth by the window and gives me a hug.
I say nothing. She says nothing.
The Mermaid Bay Legacy Tour has failed. I’ve failed. I feel that failure like a gut punch.
We hold hands as they wheel Dee out.