They made their way out to the tram and caught a ride to the car rental center. Once inside, Jaxon handled the paperwork, and they were quickly escorted to a sleek SUV. Bags loaded, doors shut, and just a few miles down the road...
Claire’s phone rang.
“Hello?”
“We’re at the house. Can I talk to Jaxon?”
“You’re on speaker. You found it?”
“Yeah. You got a spare key hidden or are we breaking in?”
“It’s hidden. Head down to the dock pathway and let me know when you’re there.”
A moment passed.
“Okay. I’m here.”
“See the rocks near the step?”
“There are rocks on both sides.”
“If you're facing the water, second rock on the left.”
Sara hesitated. “Under it?”
“Yeah, check there.”
She rustled around, then: “There’s nothing here!”
“I know. I’m messing with you. Key’s under the rug on the back deck.”
“DAMN IT, JAXON!” she yelled. “I look like a criminal trespassing in flip flops.”
Claire doubled over laughing in the passenger seat.
“Do you look like you’re on a scavenger hunt?” she asked.
“Kiss my ass, Claire.”
“Have you found the treasure yet?” Jaxon added.
“I will once I get into this house and take a bath in your big-ass tub.”
“Stay out of his room, Sara.” Claire warned.
“It’s fine,” Jaxon said. “Make yourselves at home. Towels are in the closets, shampoo and conditioner should be stocked in the showers. Laundry stuff is in the cabinet above the washer.”
“Thank you, Jaxon. We’ll take good care of it.”
“You’re welcome. Enjoy it.”
Claire chimed in. “Sara, I’m sorry you had to go through all this. Use whatever’s in the bags I bought yesterday.”
“Girl, I planned on it. And thank God we left the bags in the car. First thing we’re doing is laundry.”
“We’re almost at the hotel,” Claire said. “I’ll call y’all tonight.”
“Sounds good. Try not to lock yourselves out next time.”
