Read Online Hurricanes in Paradise by Denise Hildreth - Free Book Online

exhale slowly as she turned toward her. She had obviously been nervous about the attention of this fan. “Hello. Did you get settled in?”
    “One of the young men got everything situated for me, yes.”
    “I’m so glad. Looks like you got a little bit of our sunshine,” Riley said, touching her own nose.
    Laine patted her cheek with the back of her hand. “Yes, I did.”
    “September really is a great time of year to come. Plus, it’s quieter. Which is nice if you’re willing to risk a hurricane.”
    Laine’s brow furrowed. “Are you expecting a hurricane?” She had checked the weather before she left.
    “There’s a disturbance out there right now. But we’ll just keep our eyes on it. We always know in plenty of time.”
    “Well, I’ve got too much work to do to worry about some wind and rain.”
    Riley raised her eyebrows.
    “I’ve lived through the earth moving, Riley. I can handle a hurricane. So should we get sequestered indoors, we’ll simply use that time to learn the inner workings of the Atlantis.”
    Riley’s expression made it clear she hadn’t bargained for so much of her time being taken up. The hostess interrupted. Riley looked grateful. “We have your table ready, ladies.”
    “Great,” Riley said, her excitement a little too revealing.
    “Right this way.”
    Riley motioned for Laine to go in front of her. On the walk to the table, Laine took in every nuance of the restaurant. It was filled with bold splashes of color: mustard yellows and royal blues. The fabrics contrasted in subtle yet whimsical waves from cowhide fabric–backed chairs to smooth red leathers all infusing the Southwestern touch chef Bobby Flay was known for. The grill sat as if it were a stage from where all the productions of the evening would flow.
    The hostess pulled out Laine’s chair. She sat, ran her hands across the soft white linen tablecloth, and turned the sleek contemporary silverware beneath her fingers. Everything on the table had clean and simple lines, allowing the food to be the center of attention.
    Laine reached into her bag and pulled out a notepad. “Beautiful restaurant.”
    “We’re told it is his best so far.”
    “I’d have to agree. I think I’ve eaten in most,” Laine said as she turned her head toward the other side of the restaurant. She let her gaze wander among the diners as Riley’s gaze followed her. There was a letting down that occurred in places like these. She could see it in the way people touched, discoursed, and laughed. Vacation bred relaxation. And it was evident all over the dining room. “Do you ever wonder about the stories behind people who dine alone?” Laine’s eyes were on the woman who had been enamored of her earlier.
    Riley turned quickly as if she knew who had Laine’s eye. A huge smile spread across the woman’s face when she saw them looking at her. Then she waved. Riley gave a quick nod and turned back to Laine.
    “You know her.”
    “Yes, Winnie Harris. She’s a guest. I’ve been asked to keep an eye on her for the week.”
    Laine sensed her uneasiness. “Really? Am I keeping you from her?”
    Riley shook her head. “No, no. She’s here on vacation. Her family just asked me to make sure she enjoys herself.”
    Laine nodded over Riley’s shoulder again. “What about her? The stunning, young African American.”
    Riley didn’t turn. Evidently she knew her too. The young woman paid them no attention. Her elbow rested on the table, her head in her palm, a menu lying in front of her. “Yes, she’s another one I’ve been asked to take care of this week. Her family is concerned about her too.” Riley ran her hands down the side of her place mat. “Truth be told, I am as well.”
    Laine saw Riley’s countenance shift. “Is she in trouble?”
    Riley shook her head as if she had said too much. “Oh no. I doubt it’s anything like that. Just a concerned mother.”
    “Invite them to eat with us.”
    Riley let out a slight chuckle, then