Read Online Treasure Tides (The Coins) by Deniece Greene - Free Book Online Page B

it was possible
to absorb.
An ocean breeze whispered through the moss, swinging it
gently in the trees. Today it whispered more loudly than usual, thanks to
the approaching storm.
    The buildings downtown had survived centuries of weather, war, fire,
even an earthquake or two.
Cannons gleamed in the bright sun, a
solemn reminder of those who had lost their lives on this very ground.
    “If only these walls could talk,” Becki had heard her grandfather say
many times, “just think of the stories they could tell.”
She imagined all kinds of stories; stories of ill-fated lovers, pirates,
artists and thieves; stories of grand balls and elegant gowns; stories of
wives and mistresses pacing the “widows’ walk” while watching, hoping ,
and praying this might be the tide that would bring their loved ones
home safe and sound.
“Look, there is a wedding going on,” Natie said as they strolled on
the pathway winding through White Point Gardens.
“Do you want to crash the party?” Becki asked with a smile and a
twinkle in her eye.
A few years ago, their parents had decided everyone should meet in
Tennessee over the Christmas holiday.
After a large, rather fancy, family
Christmas celebration, Natie decided they needed some girl-time, and a
“refreshing beverage”.
Still clad in their festive Christmas attire, they had meandered through
the atrium on their way to one of the hotel bars, enjoying the fountains and
foliage.
A bride, groom, and complete wedding entourage had practically
run them over rushing to get to the reception on time. As the sisters backed
quickly away from the main walkway in an attempt at self-preservation, they
bumped into one of the many elaborately decorated Christmas trees gracing
the common areas of the hotel. After getting an up-close and personal look
at the groomsmen, Natie had grabbed two fake gifts out from under the
Christmas tree, handed one to Becki with a wink, and joined the stream of
wedding guests on their way to the reception.
After depositing their “wedding gift” on the appropriate table, they had
enjoyed cocktails, danced with the groomsmen, and flirted shamelessly all
evening. As the party began to wind down, the bride’s father had strolled
over to the bar where they were seated, and ordered three shots of whisky.
After handing them each a shot glass, he said, “I don’t know who you gals
are, but thanks for livening up this party.” He tossed back his shot and then
added, “I can’t wait to see them open up that gift tomorrow.” He chuckled,
winked, and then kissed them each on the cheek.
Becki and Natie ordered another shot as they watched him collect his
wife, kiss his daughter, and glide to the door, pausing to tip his hat to them
before he left. Natie and Becki had collapsed with laughter, and when they
could breathe again, had decided it was the best wedding reception they had never been invited to.
Glancing toward the happy couple currently pledging to “love, honor,
and cherish” one another, Becki shook her head.
“I don’t know about this one, Natie; they seem a little stuffy,” Becki
grinned.
“Well, then, it’s a good thing we’re here to save the day,” Natie
announced as she locked arms with Becki preparing to drag her toward the
festivities. It was fun to see Natie enjoying herself.
Immediately upon arriving at the gardens, Jonah had decided to walk
back to their hotel to “take a nap”. Right. Whatever his true plans were,
Becki was glad to have Natie all to herself for a few hours.
“Ok, let’s liven this place up,” Becki said, enjoying the moment.
As she and Natie moved toward the gazebo, the ceremony was
winding down. “You may kiss your bride,” announced the minister.
As the newlyweds kissed, their guests whistled and cheered.
Becki
smiled as she absorbed the joy of the couple’s special moment.
Suddenly, she caught a slight movement out of the corner of her eye.
Turning to investigate, she spied a familiar figure.
The joy of