Chapter 12 #2
Bennett noticed that Ken started to add something but refrained. He sensed that Ken was uncomfortable with these questions, so he said to Tyler, “We have some old photos from that era back at the inn. You might like to see them sometime.”
“Sure, that’s cool,” Tyler said.
Ken inclined his head. “I would like to see those as well.”
“We learn so much from studying history,” Bennett said. “Tyler, you might like to read up on that. Southern California played a big part at the time, so we have a lot of history here. And as we’ve discovered, some of it is literally under our feet.”
“Right, that old bunker you found,” Tyler said, snapping his fingers. “What’s going on with that?”
“It will become part of the library and museum complex,” Bennett replied. “The revised plans look good. The groundbreaking will likely be this year.”
Tyler’s phone buzzed while they spoke. He drained his coffee and stood. “Celia just texted that the landscapers need a decision on gravel color. Apparently, my opinion matters now. Wish me luck.”
Tyler clapped Bennett on the shoulder and headed toward the door. Bennett watched him go, thinking how much a man could change when he decided to show up for the people he loved. He still had a lot to learn, though.
“Ken, I’m sorry if Tyler said any?—”
“Not your place to apologize,” Ken said, cutting in. “All that happened a long time ago.”
Mitch stopped by their table and set down a small plate of biscotti. “On the house. Fresh batch. Try it.” From a pot in his other hand, he refilled their coffee cups.
“Thanks, Mitch.” Bennett pushed the plate toward Ken first, then helped himself. “These are good.”
“Anise and orange flavored,” Mitch replied, before moving on to another table.
Bennett had a few more minutes before he had to go. He’d learned a lot today, including how important the Spring Fling was to everyone, from business owners in the village to suppliers and landscape crews. Residents were excited to see their neighbors’ properties and gardens.
Not to mention the tourist revenue the event would bring in.
This event was important to so many in the community.
Just beyond Ken, surfers were carrying their boards across the beach and paddling out to catch the afternoon waves.
The front door chimed, and Bennett glanced up to see who was coming in. He sat up when he saw one of their guests.
It was Kiko.
She stepped inside, carrying herself gracefully. Her dark hair brushed her shoulders, and she wore a tailored white shirt with dark jeans.
Ken noticed her, too. He straightened in his chair.
“I wonder who that is?” Ken asked casually.
“She’s a guest at the inn. She’s from San Francisco and seems nice. Intelligent, too.”
“Would you introduce us?”
“Sure.” Bennett stood and made his way to her. “Will you join us, Kiko? Mitch can bring whatever you’d like.”
“Yes, thank you,” she replied. “I’ve heard the coffee is the best in town.”
Bennett introduced Ken and Kiko, and then waved to Mitch, who quickly took her order.
“What brings you to Summer Beach?” Ken asked.
“I’m researching some family history. My grandmother had a connection to the area.”
Ken raised his eyebrows. “That’s fascinating. What kind of connection?”
“She lived here briefly during the war.”
Ken leaned forward slightly. Bennett could see his curiosity beneath his obvious attraction.
“There’s so much history here that many of our friends aren’t aware of,” Ken said, glancing at Bennett. “I’m a caretaker for a Japanese garden that my grandfather built after his service. Every time I dig into the past, I discover yet another layer.”
“I know the feeling,” Kiko said.
“I’d love to hear more about your research,” Ken said. “If you plan to stay longer, may I invite you to join me for dinner in the village? We could talk about history and your findings.”
Kiko’s expression barely changed. She looked down at her hands, then back at Ken.
“That’s kind of you. But I’m only here for a little while, and I have a lot to get through.” Though she had barely touched her coffee, she stood, her hands clasped around her bag. “It was nice meeting you.”
Ken rose as she did and dipped his head. “And you as well.”
After she’d left, he gazed after her. “That was a quick rejection.”
Bennett nodded, partly amused. “Polite, though.”
“She seems interesting. I only wish…”
Just then, Kiko turned around and headed back to their table. Ken rose to meet her.
This time, she looked a little more eager. “Ken, I’ve heard your garden is on the Spring Fling tour. People have been raving about it.”
Ken nodded. “Will you be staying for the tour?”
“I’m afraid not. But I’d love to see it. Would you have time…”
Ken swiftly replied, “I’d be honored to give you a tour while you’re here.”
Her face brightened. “I’d like that very much.”
While Bennett watched, they traded their contact information.
Kiko gave them a brief smile, and then she was gone, the door closing behind her with a chime.
Ken stared after her. “How long should I wait to call her?”
Bennett grinned. “Give her at least fifteen minutes. You don’t want to seem too eager.”
“I only wish she lived closer,” Ken said wistfully.