Read Online Balefire by Barrett - Free Book Online Page A

his elbow. “It wasn’t too bad. One of the airline personnel recommended a youth hostel near the airport. The price was right and easily accessed. Kirin said it looked more like a hospital than a hotel. And it was just as quiet.”
    “What’s the story with Kirin?” He pointed toward the new house. “Di ane said she’s some kind of a writer and wants to do a side story about the resort. Is that for real?”
    They walked around the main building and office to Mark and Diane’s private residence—a beautiful two-story rustic bungalow-style home. Mark designed it like a bunker with all the features they both wanted from their original home in Wisconsin. They incorporated solar energy along with a state-of-the-art water recycling system.
    He pushed open a decorative wooden gate for her.
    “Honestly, I don’t know that much about her . . . thanks.” Silke stepped forward. “Circumstance threw us together, and we’ve been navigating through the nuances. When we first met at the airport, I never would’ve dreamed we’d end up sharing a room. Even though we haven’t talked that much, she’s intense, a type A—always on the edge.”
    “Watch your step, I just set this flag stone walk and there are still some uneven spots.” He held her elbow.
    Her mind stayed on Kirin as she walked through the gateway. “The nic est thing happened after we arrived here. She sort of deflated. I think it’s because of the magical air of Ambergris Caye. Well, that and the fact she got excited about a new assignment.”
    They climbed a series of steps, and Mark opened the front door. “Dee, we’re back.”
    Silke stopped and exhaled. “That’s an impressive climb. I certain ly worked up an appetite.” She brushed her hair around her ear and smiled.
    Mark laughed. “I wasn’t taking any chances with storm surges or flooding. There’s a long gradual ramp to the back deck for deliveries or moving, and the ramp ends close to the resort kitchen. Any emergency, we’re ready to go.”
    The kitchen was large and awash with warm tones—reds, golds, and orange accents. The floors and walls were bamboo. Diane was listening to classical music. Debussy or Ravel? An exhaust fan buzzed near the stove.
    “Whatever you’re cooking smells divine,” Silke said.
    “I’m so glad you’re here.” Diane embraced her and pulled out a stool at the kitchen counter. “Sit here,” she patted the seat, “and talk to me while I finish up. Wine?”
    “Sure, whatever you’re having.”
    “I’m due to check on the grill.” Mark patted her back, and she heard the sound of the refrigerator opening and bottles clinking. “Don’t talk about me while I’m gone.”
    Silke and Diane laughed.
    “You have nothing to worry about, my dear.” Diane pushed him out the door and closed it behind him. “Some days I think he’ll never grow up.”
    Seeing Mark and Diane together always made Silke a little jealous. “You guys are so perfect together the way you complement each other. It always gives me hope.”
    Diane rinsed her hands and sat down at the end of the counter. “Don’t forget, we had some really hard times when we started this business. I wasn’t sure we’d make it. But we both wanted it so badly there was no turning back.” She sipped her wine. “Did I tell you that my precious daughter and her husband agreed to lease the house?”
    “How are they doing? I haven’t heard from Stacey in ages.” Silke over shot as she tried to reach her glass.
    Diane slid it in her sightline. “They’re great, still trying to get pregnant. I have encouraged them to be patient and just work on building a relationship.” She paused. “I know she’s been remiss about keeping in touch with you, and I’m sorry. It’s just . . . she’s a little uncomfortable. You know she adores you, but the accident with Rachel has upset her.”
    A tiny knife-like pain pierced Silke’s heart. She was Stacey’s godmoth er. “I’m so sorry. I guess I never