Chapter 6 #2
In the fresh air surrounded by fragrant flowers, Ivy’s mind brimmed with ideas.
“When Shelly and I first moved into the old house, we threw a big cleanup and painting party, and everyone in my family came to help. I’d like to do the same thing, but Shelly is very picky about who she lets onto the property to help. ”
“Are you saying she’s micromanaging?”
“Sort of, but not exactly,” Ivy said. “Shelly has a great deal of knowledge and knows exactly what she wants. She doesn’t want to see her careful planning ruined. You should’ve seen me trying to dig up old shrubbery. I was a disaster, so I know how she feels.”
“I wish I’d known sooner,” Leilani said.
“Roy and I would be happy to stop by in the evening. The only problem is, right now is our busy season, and everyone in town needs plants and supplies for their spring planting. But I can ask around to see if there are some knowledgeable people who would maybe let you pay them off over a couple of months.”
“That’s a possibility,” Ivy said, appreciating Leilani’s offer. But she hated not to pay people right away.
A monarch butterfly flitted over flats filled with young flowers. Ivy had to smile, and she chose to take that as an optimistic sign from Mother Nature.
Leilani looked thoughtful as they walked. “Maybe you could find some people who know about landscaping among the surfer community. You could ask Brother Rip if he knows of anyone in his sunrise flock.”
Ivy ducked under a budding tree branch. “This is why I like to brainstorm with you.”
“I’m happy to do that, especially since you’re in such a bind. Does Shelly realize how long this is going to take? She didn’t seem that worried.”
“She knows we’re behind, but Shelly has never managed people. The property grounds have always been her private domain. This is quite an undertaking. I believe she thought we could help, but I also need to manage the inn and guests.”
Leilani picked up a snapped branch in the path and moved it to safety. “I don’t envy your position.”
Across the nursery, Ivy spotted Marina Moore browsing the tomato and pepper plant aisle. Her basket was nearly full. Marina waved, and Ivy waved back. She imagined her friend was shopping for her chef’s garden at the Coral Cafe.
“Drafting our family for a weekend of labor aside, I had another idea,” Ivy said, broaching the subject with care.
“When you and Roy leave to visit your family in Hawaii every winter, you have the gardening club from the high school care for the plants here at the nursery. Do you think the school might let them participate in a project? They might even gain extra credit for it.”
Leilani’s eyes brightened. “There are some very talented kids in the garden club. Landscaping is a big business here in Southern California, and many of them have gone on to work for major resorts and hotels up and down the coast. Some have started their own landscaping businesses, and a few have gone to college to study horticulture. I can put you in touch with the teacher who oversees the club.”
A flicker of hope sparked in Ivy’s chest. “I really appreciate that.”
Leilani gave her a wistful smile. “I wish I could do more right now. But you’ll be in good hands with Rose Gardner.”
Ivy laughed. “Is that her real name?”
“Actually, it is. She’s a science teacher, but she does have a green thumb. Gardner is her married name, so that was just a happy accident that she sounds like a specialized flower gardener. Tell her I sent you.”
“I’ll reach out right away,” Ivy said.
“Do you still need that gift?” Leilani asked. “We have some gorgeous orchids that just came in, and I can put one in a pretty pot for you. Who is it for?”
Ivy shook her head. “That’s how I got Shelly to stop here. But I’d love to take something to Rosie. You’re a lifesaver, Leilani.”
“She was in last week admiring a vivid purple phalaenopsis orchid—a new hybrid with dramatic coloring and patterns. Let me know what she says, and I’ll keep thinking of other options.
The Hidden Garden is a big part of the Spring Fling, and we’ve all got to work together to make this first year successful. ”
“I have to meet with the committee soon to give them an update.”
“Tell them I’m on board helping. That should appease them until you can coordinate a team.
” Leilani paused, looking thoughtful. “The old Spring Fling was a major event for the community years ago, and I know we can bring many people in during the summer shoulder season. That’s important for all the small businesses in Summer Beach. ”
“It sure is. I’m feeling a lot more confident after talking to you.” She hugged her friend. “I appreciate your support.”
Leilani smiled. “Anytime you need to talk about plants or anything else, you know where I am.”
As Ivy paid for the orchid, Shelly rushed back, her face flushed with excitement.
“You should see what they have in stock—and what they can get. I placed an order with Roy to pick up when we’re ready for it.”
Ivy smiled at her enthusiasm. “Leilani has a magic wand for us.”
“What? Oh, you’re kidding.” Shelly grinned. “Don’t worry about it, Ives. You’ll figure it out. You always do.”
“Someday you’ll have to do that.”
“Not with you around.”
Ivy turned to Leilani. “See what I mean? But she’s still my sister.”
They said goodbye and started for the Jeep.
“I need to make a call when we get home. Will you watch over the inn with Poppy and Sunny? I’ll be out all afternoon.”
“Poppy told me you’re meeting with the committee. Want me to come with you?”
“Thanks, but I’ve got this. You keep working on the grounds.”
“I hoped you’d say that. I mean, I’d be there if you needed me, but I’d rather dig in the dirt. Good luck with all that.” Shelly laughed as she got in the driver’s seat and started the Jeep.
“I appreciate the thought.” Her sister’s words were genuine, even if Shelly didn’t fully grasp the magnitude of not delivering on what they’d promised.
Ivy placed the orchid on the floorboard and stepped into the car. As she did, her phone rang. She took it from her canvas cross-body bag and glanced at the unusual number on the screen.
An international call.
In a flash, her heart raced, and she felt light-headed. This moment, right now… She dreaded what the news might be. Was this the before-and-after moment?
Shelly noticed. “Who is it?”
Ivy held the phone up. “It might be…”
Shelly gripped her hand. “Why are you waiting? Answer it!”