Faded Cotton (Erotic Romance) Read Online Free PDF Page B

sense of security. The path to the house was lined with
sculpted greens, which defined the immaculate grounds. Old World
Spanish architecture was combined in brilliant marriage with local
island style. Guards were at every turn.
    Laurel’s thoughts wondered. It was the
vacation she always wanted, and there was no one to share it with.
She and Jahn hadn’t taken an island vacation, although they had
talked about it. Laurel shook her head a little and looked at Seth,
her eyes misting over. She had to let go, but how could she? How do
you find a way to hold on and let go at the same time?
    “Laurel, are you okay,” Seth asked. “I know
the last few days have been crazy for you. We are goin’ to take
care of y’all. The Captain will fill you in. Try to relax until
they get to the bottom of things.” She nodded and focused on the
pathway, listening to Seth talk about the evening menu.
    “Laurel, I know you. Other than you not being
here of your own accord, there is somethin’ goin’ ‘round in circles
in that wonderful head of yours. What are you thinkin’?” The Texan
chef was always thoughtful when it came to her.
    “I was just thinking this would be the
honeymoon I never had. Here I am in paradise and I have no one.
I’ll be okay. ‘Just feeling a little sorry for myself.” She gave
Seth a half grin, breathed in deep and sighed with regret.
    “Hey, what am I, chopped liver?” He feigned a
look of offense.
    “No, sweetheart you’ll do just fine—for the
woman who wears your ring.” They smiled at each other. “She’s a
lucky girl, Seth.”
    “Thanks Laurel. That means more coming from
you than anyone, ever.”
    After a moment of silence, punctured only by
the snap of their flip-flops, he turned to her. “Ya know, Laurel,
there are a lot of eligible men on this island. And honey, I think
y’all are going to be here for a while.”
    She bit her lip, “Seth, if you are referring
to who I think you are—you’re crazy.” Seth flashed a mischievous
grin.
    Opening large French doors, Seth ushered
Laurel in. The dining room, meant for large gatherings, glowed
beautifully, with custom lighting and a hint of candlelight. The
Spanish style table was made of long timbers worn in a
well-appreciated way and accompanied by intricately carved chairs
padded with plush royal blue velvet coverings. Potted Hibiscus rose
on either side of the long buffet. Its carvings matched the chairs.
It was easy to imagine the table seating a pirate captain and his
trusted crew or a wealthy rumrunner.
    The atrium style gave the room a warm glow as
the hues of the fading sun turned orange. A crystal and iron
chandelier hung over the center of the table. At the back of the
room, a service door opened to the left, and double French doors to
a large study, opened to the right.
    Looking at the faces seated at the table, she
smiled and fell into the adventure. The group rose when she entered
as if she were an honored guest. Blushing, she took time to hug and
kiss everyone before settling at her post, at the end of the
table.

Chapter 9
     
     
     
     
     
     
    Laurel was impressed with the gathering.
Included at the table were the very best of men, and women, she
knew, both in character and of stature. To her left were the two
who had followed her in, Lieutenant Tanner and beyond him,
Lieutenant Morrison. Her beautiful daughter, Shannon, was smiling
at her as well. Seth was seated with his wife Rachel.
    The faces warmed her. Jess LeGrande—Jakes
son, Adam MacClain—her son, and the restrained Captain Jennifer
Delaney were to her right. Ben Pisano and his wife Ellia were there
as well. There were others, all familiar faces. She noticed the
only open seat was at the other end of the table.
    “Seth, why is the other drivers seat
empty?”
    Seth dismissed her question with his hand and
ushered in the serving staff for the first course. A crisp green
salad laden with sweet vinaigrette was served, capturing everyone’s
attention. The