Page 81 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

I sat for a moment in the den by myself. Thinking of all the people I loved, I realized once more how complicated families could be.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

Thanksgiving morningwas bright and clear, as the weather forecaster had promised. But there was no time to enjoy it. It was the busiest day of the year for the hotel, with all staff helping to serve hundreds of people dinner in several shifts. We did it, in part, because it made such a satisfying difference to many people in the area who’d come to love our expansive buffet.

It made social and foodie news. Turkey wasn’t the only meat of the day. A steamship round of beef, halves of ham, and legs of lamb were also offered. Luckily, after several upgrades, our kitchen could handle it.

After our guests had taken what they wanted of meat, vegetables, salads, and desserts and we’d closed the dining room, the staff members could have whatever they wanted of the remaining food. It was a wonderful way to share camaraderie with staff members from all departments.

“Looks like you have a beautiful, sunny day,” murmured Vaughn, giving me a last squeeze before I got out of bed.

“It helps when we do. People can spread out to the outdoors to wait until their reservations are ready. What are you doing today until I see you this afternoon?”

“I thought I’d take Arthur for a sail. Robbie and Brett want to come too. It’s great that Robbie and Brett can enjoy sailing with me and being on a motorboat with Brett’s dad.”

I kissed Vaughn and forced myself out of bed. I knew the hotel kitchen staff were already at work.

After I showered and dressed for the day, I went to the kitchen and found Lorraine waiting for me.

“Ready for a busy day?” I asked, pleased to see her.

“Yes,” said Lorraine. “It’s essential for me to keep going on with my work even while things are uncertain for Arthur. We talked about it, and he agrees.”

“If at any time you feel you can’t be part of the scene, please let me know. There’s bound to be talk.”

“That’s why it’s important for me to do my usual job. I can’t let Arthur’s problem ruin my business. He and Vaughn have planned a pleasant day.”

I briefly wondered at Lorraine’s vehemence and then realized how right she was. She’d worked hard to establish herself as a well-known wedding planner and had spent years alone building her business. It seemed only right that she fight for its continued success now.

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We arrived at the hotelto find the kitchen area abuzz with excitement. A small area in Consuela’s kitchen, apart from the main kitchen, offered hot coffee and tea, plates of sweet rolls and cookies, and plenty of ice water. We needed the staff to be cared for throughout the day as they’d be on their feet for many hours.

Lorraine and I grabbed cups of coffee and a treat and moved to my office.

Rhonda was already there. “Hi, Ann. Hi, Lorraine. I’m glad you’re here. I wanted to be sure there would be no hard feelings between us because of any problems with Arthur.”