Seaside Reunion Read Online Free PDF

over and do a preliminary site survey. In this economy, it’s our civic duty to give an unbiased hearing to any opportunity that could bring new business to Starfish Bay.”
    Lindsey clamped her lips together and scowled at the mayor. Since Susan and her husband ran a local sightseeing company, they’d be among the biggest beneficiaries of an influx of tourists.
    But so would other area businesses. She checked out the remaining two council members. Dennis ran a fishing camp, Janice operated an art gallery. More tourists would be beneficial for both of them.
    Her stomach knotted.
    The odds weren’t looking good.
    “I don’t disagree with you, Susan.” Janice folded her hands, twin furrows etching her brow. “In these economic times, we do need to consider all sources of revenue to bolster our town budget. But I’m not certain I like this idea. A resort like that,” she gestured to the easel, “is lovely, but think how it would change the dynamics of the town. And as for The Point, I like the wild beauty of it, even if we never have the funds to make it a park. It’s a tough decision.”
    So Janice wasn’t gung ho on the idea, either. Maybe there was hope yet.
    A hand rose at the back of the hall. Clint Nolan worked for the National Park Service and had degrees in marine biology and forestry. He’d only been in Starfish Bay for a year, but he was well respected. And he didn’t like messing with nature or taming wild places. He might be an ally, too.
    “Yes, Clint?” Susan tapped her pen against the table, the staccato rhythm echoing in the mostly empty hall.
    He rose. “With due respect to the reputation of Mattson Properties, I have to agree with Janice. This sort of decision requires careful consideration and a full hearing before area residents. I’d suggest you schedule a meeting where we can see a more detailed plan for the site and listen to what other citizens have to say.”
    “Hear, hear.” That from one of the other residents who’d attended the meeting.
    “Well.” Susan huffed and adjusted her glasses. “And here I thought this was a no-brainer. I had no idea a proposal with such obvious economic benefits to the community would be contentious.”
    The representative from the developer took down the photograph and folded up the easel. “I know Mr. Mattson would be happy to come himself and present some site renderings for residents to review. And to answer questions, of course.”
    “Does anyone on the council object to a special meeting?” When no one spoke, Susan sighed. “Okay. Let’s talk dates.”
    Ten minutes later, after offering the developer a couple of options two weeks down the road, the meeting wrapped up.
    As Lindsey gathered up her notes, Frank wandered over, obviously sensing a kindred spirit. “I’d hate to see that developer tear down the chapel and ruin The Point.”
    “Me, too.”
    “You think the town will go for it?”
    “I hope not.”
    “He’s a smooth talker, though.” The man ran his fingers through his bristly white hair. “Think I might bend the Lord’s ear a little on this one. See you around.” With a wave, he walked toward the exit.
    Lindsey followed close on his heels, hoping his prayer would be heard. Through all the turmoil and changes that had come her way, the headland and the chapel had been a stable, enduring element in her life. She’d found solace there in times of sorrow, joy in times of celebration, refuge in times of fear.
    Losing it would be like losing part of herself.
    Again.
    So as she drove home through the night, she sent a simple but fervent plea of her own heavenward.
    Please, Lord, help us preserve this special place.
     
     
    Nate pushed through the front door of the Mercantile, the bell jingling overhead.
    “I’ll take care of it, honey.” A masculine voice came from somewhere in the back of the store.
    Spying a dome-covered plate of cookies near the cash register, Nate wandered over. Not chocolate chip today. But they