“Hey boys.”
I open one eye and squint in the sunlight at two girls handing out flyers.
“You coming to the beach on Saturday for the fundraiser? We have lots going on.” The tall brunette hands me a leaflet.
I adjust my eyes to read the words kissing auction and chuckle to myself. “Are you girls in the kissing auction?”
The brunette smiles and bats her lashes my way. “Come and see for yourself.” She winks before she walks away, shouting over her shoulder, “And bring your wallet. It’s for a good cause.”
Upon glancing at the flyer, I notice a logo featuring a turtle and the words Magnolia Point Conservation Project. The words SAVE OUR SEAS in big letters. I fold up the leaflet and stuff it in my pocket with a smile on my face. Locals will do anything for a fundraiser.
My father gathers up the architectural drawings on the large conference table. “When we get the planning permission through, we’ll build the most luxurious apartments Magnolia Point has ever seen.”
I shove my hands in my trouser pockets and nod along, agreeing with my father, a land developer and realtor from Charleston and the most formidable man I know. Something I’ve learnt over the years is you don’t disagree with him without a solid argument.
“How are you finding Magnolia Point, son?” He slips the plans into a large leather portfolio.
I shrug a shoulder. On the surface, it resembles other wealthy resort towns he’s developed in the past, but in the last few months I’ve been here, I’ve noticed the charm andcommunity this place has. Running my thumb under the suspender straps over my shirt, I gaze out the window of my father’s office on the second floor, overlooking Mug Life Coffee Shop, selling the best lattes I’ve ever tasted. Next door is the Coastal Charm Boutique, and farther down is my favourite Mexican takeout.
“I know it’s your birthday, but the main reason for this party is for you to network with some of Magnolia Point’s most influential people.”
I tug at my suspenders and let out a groan. “I’ll gladly hang out with Sullivan or Spence, but I’m not sucking up to that group of tossers again.”
“We need to get the Kilmores on board. Chad’s father’s on the planning committee.”
“His son’s an idiot, you know that, right? And the cousin, Bentley.” That’s so typical of Dad to use my birthday as an excuse to do business or network. Growing up, I wanted to spend time with my parents, but Dad would throw the most lavish parties and invite all his business buddies and their kids.
“I don’t know them well, but Bentley, the dentist, seems to be doing okay. He can brighten your teeth, that’s for sure.” Dad hints at a smile as he pulls a small box from his pocket and slides it across the smoked-glass table.
“What’s this?” I lift the leather and open the clasp. A bunch of keys rest on a velvet cushion.
“A birthday gift. If you’re staying in town, I thought you should have your own boat.”
“You’re giving me your new boat?” I lift the shiny silver keys in front of me.
“Turning thirty’s a big deal and I know I haven’t always been there for you, but I’m enjoying having you around. We make a good team.” He rounds the table and squeezes my shoulder.
“Wow.” I’m stunned and can’t think of anything to say. Of course, I know the real reason he enjoys having me around. I’m just a puppet in his master plan to manipulate everyone to his whim.
I’ll go along with it, because I’ve nothing better to do. My father’s never seen my art as a proper job and until I can convince him otherwise, I’m stuck playing his games.
“I’ll see you at the party tonight.” He shrugs on his suit jacket. “The boat’s in the marina in the usual spot. I've had it serviced and cleaned, though I haven’t used it much. Cordelia doesn't enjoy sailing.”
Chapter Three
SHELLY
“Ican’t believe you talked me into this.” I smooth a hand over the paisley patterned dress I’m wearing, the tassels catching against my ankle bracelet with each step.
“Relax, girl. You’re taking the night off and you’re going to enjoy yourself.” Ava hooks her arm through mine as we walk into the town’s prestigious country club.
“I don’t belong here.” Clutching the crochet purse in my hand, my fingers fiddle with the smooth shells attached to the woven yarn. I rarely come to the country club, unless I’m doing a talk or raising money, but tonight, it’s someone’s birthday. A friend of Sullivan’s, Ava’s man. We’d planned to have a girly night, but she’d double-booked, so dragged me along with her to this party.
“Hush now, it’s a free bar. You look like you could use a drink or three, girl. Make the most of it. I will.” She giggles, stepping into the function room at the back of the club.
Freshly cooked lobster, crab, salmon, and prime rib are served at the buffet table. The smell of cooked meat catches in my nose, making me nauseous.
A waiter walks by with a silver tray of champagne flutes. “Ma’am.”
