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“Even if nothing progresses between you and Ted, you’ve made great strides forward. I’ve been waiting for you to be ready because I have someone in mind for you. A man who recently joined Brad’s law firm. He’s a very likable guy who has been single for a number of years following a divorce.”

“Stop! Maybe I’m not as ready as I think,” said Emmie.

“No pressure,” said Kate. “It might ease your mind to know you don’t have to base your future on meeting a man you might be attracted to. There will be opportunities for you to meet others in your own time.”

“Okay,” said Emmie. “But I’m not suddenly desperate to find a man.”

Kate chuckled. “I know. Is the hotel as wonderful as they say?”

“It’s gorgeous, the service impeccable, and the food divine.”

“Wow,” said Kate. “I’ve got to get Brad to take me there for our anniversary.”

“It’ll be worth it to spend even a couple of days here. The two women running it certainly know what they’re doing, and they’re delightful.”

“What are you going to do for the rest of your stay?” asked Kate.

“I haven’t done much shopping, so I’ll do that. There are tourist attractions around, but, honestly, I’m content to stay at the hotel resting and reading. I didn’t realize how much I’ve needed this.”

“Enjoy every minute,” said Kate. I know how your law firm depends on you. And you might be interested to know the weather here is awful.”

“That makes it even more enjoyable here,” joked Emmie. “I’ll talk to you later. I’m glad things worked out with your boys.”

The call ended, and Emmie sat for a minute, thinking about her friendship with Kate. It would be impossible to replace her and all the memories they shared, boosting each other’s spirits through the ups and downs of life.

Emmie tried calling Lauren but had to leave a message. With Rick’s family visiting, Lauren was sure to be busy.

###

After a delicious breakfast of Eggs Benedict, Emmie walked toward town to do some shopping. Main Street shops were bustling with after-Christmas shoppers. In this tropical setting, it was fun to see the twinkling lights wrapped around the trunks of palm trees. Christmas decorations were still featured in store windows, though Emmie imagined they’d soon be gone. High season ran until the middle of April, and stores would compete to sell their wares to tourists.

Emmie walked into a jewelry store, seeking a special memento of her trip here.

She was leaning over a counter, studying a gold bracelet, when she heard a voice behind her.

“Hello, Em.”

Emmie whipped around and faced Ted.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, returning his smile.

“Just looking for something for Cinda. She’s a New Year’s baby. Do you want to give an old man some advice?” His blue eyes twinkled.

“I was just looking at some simple gold bracelets. They’re lovely to wear anytime. Want to see?” She stepped back to give him a better view.

“Which one do you like best?” he asked.

She pointed to a gold band of medium width. “That makes a statement without being too bold, don’t you think?”

He grinned. “Anything you say. I like it. That’s all.”

A store clerk came over to them. “And has the lady chosen a beautiful piece for herself?”

Emmie and Ted looked at one another and laughed.

“It’s for my daughter,” Ted explained. “I was just getting some suggestions from my friend, here.”

“I see. This one is lovely.” He lifted the bracelet out and showed it to Ted.