Page 78 of Sea Breezes at The Beach House Hotel

“Agreed,” I said. “What else is new in your area?”

Tina told us about new movies and series that were coming out.

We listened and asked a few questions, interested, as always, in learning about Tina’s life.

“Your boys are growing fast,” I commented. “Any more thoughts of buying a vacation place in Sabal?”

Tina smiled wistfully. “You know how much I’d love that. Nick isn’t ready for it. But as we know, time goes by fast, and living here is still a dream of mine.”

“Annie just likes to keep family close,” said Rhonda, giving me an understanding look.

“You still can’t convince Ty that he and June should move here?” Tina asked me.

I shook my head. “June has such a big family in San Francisco that I don’t think it will ever happen. Her grandmother is the matriarch of it, and she wants her grandchildren to appreciate and be part of the Asian community there.”

“Well, I know it’s a big deal to have Nell here at last,” said Tina.

“You should see the house Liz and Angie found for her in their neighborhood,” said Rhonda. “It’s perfect.”

“Or will be,” I said. “Painting walls and making a few changes has made such a difference. Doing the work on it has become a community affair for the hotel staff. I’m sure there’s something you can do there.”

“Aw, that’s very sweet. Of course, I want to help,” said Tina. “Tell me more.”

Rhonda and I took turns telling her about the house and everything that was being done to it.

“By the time Clint arrives, the basic work should be done. Until their legal matters are settled, they won’t know what other upgrades they can do to the house,” I explained.

“Manny is working on the landscaping tomorrow, then we’re pretty well done outside,” I said. “I’ll take you there tomorrow.”

“Great. I think I’ll talk to Manny to see if I can help plant flowers. That’s something I can do,” said Tina.

My lips curved, pleased she wanted to participate.

Rhonda lifted her tulip glass of champagne. “Here’s to us. May we always be family.”

“Yes, family. My family,” I said, thinking back to my lonely childhood as I watched some of our children play together.

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The next day, Tina arranged to meet Rhonda and me at Nell’s house to see the project for herself. When we arrived, she was working with Manny planting flowers in two beautiful turquoise pots positioned on either side of the front door.

Tina looked up as we walked toward them. “I thought this would be an attractive touch.”

“The pots are gorgeous,” I said. “And I love the Gerbera daisies.”

“Manny, you’ve done a great job with the landscaping,” said Rhonda. She stood back and gazed at the house. “It’s a whole different look.”

“I love it,” I said. “This has been such a beautiful example of people working together to get things done. The girls are going to take care of a few decorating touches inside, and then it will be ready for Clint to see.”

“None too soon,” said Tina. “When I spoke with her, Nell told me he’s coming home tomorrow, a little sooner than she’d thought.”

We walked inside the house. Painters were conducting an inspection, touching up missed spots, and making sure everything was completed.

We went through the house. The upstairs rooms had had new carpeting installed, which made the rooms look even better.

As we were about to leave, Nell showed up with Angie and Liz, carrying Gabe.

When he saw me, Gabe held out his arms. I pulled him into mine, well aware of how fast even this baby of the family was growing.