Brides at Coconuts (Coconuts Series)

by Beth Carter

  “Me too. Have you asked Destiny?” Suzy asked.

  “Yeah, she was vague. I hope letting Iz go to California wasn’t a huge mistake.” Ken ran his fingers through his hair. “I don’t like it. I don’t like any of this. But . . . I’m going to agree to the extra three hundred dollars a month while Izzy’s under her roof.”

  “You are?” Suzy rubbed Maggie’s tiny back while propping Matthew up behind couch pillows.

  “Yeah, we can handle the added expense, but I’m fighting the alimony request. I already pay for Iz’s medical and dental. I’m sure as hell not going to pay for steak dinners for Destiny’s boyfriend.”

  “That sounds reasonable.” One of the twins wailed. Suzy checked their diapers. “I’m going to need reinforcements. They’re both dirty.”

  Ken glanced at the liquor cabinet and chuckled. “It’s definitely not too early for a cocktail. Right behind you, honey.”

  Chapter 57

  Cheri made a pledge to focus on speaking to her long-lost mother even if she were abroad. Several of her texts and phone calls had been unanswered. This is totally unlike Mom. Usually she has to show me her newest plastic surgery or tell me the latest celebrity gossip. There’s never been radio silence.

  Tossing and turning in bed, she gave up on sleep and calculated the time in Europe. The Midwest was six hours behind. It’s eleven here, so I’ll likely wake Dad up, but too bad. Cheri propped herself up against a pillow and began dialing.

  A groggy voice said, “Thomas Van Buren. This had better be good.”

  Since her dad obviously hadn’t bothered to glance at the screen, Cheri forced herself to sound cheerful. “Dad, it’s me. I’m worried about Mom. She hasn’t returned my calls.”

  She could hear him roll over in bed because the mattress squeaked. A female voice said, “Thomas,” with a distinct French accent.

  Cheri bristled. “That isn’t Mom’s voice. Where is she?”

  Thomas ignored her. “You heard the television.” He yawned and said, “I didn’t want to be the one to tell you this, Cheri.” Pausing, he blurted out, “Your mother is in rehab.”

  Cheri gasped. After the news soaked in, a sob escaped. “Oh, my God. What? Where?” She brushed a tear away. “I want to visit her. I’ll charter a flight today.”

  “No need.” His voice was distant. “They don’t allow visitors. She has to—what’s the term?—detox for thirty days.”

  A flood of emotion overcame Cheri. “She must be so afraid and lonely. I can’t stand thinking of her there all alone. Do they allow phone calls?” She heard the bed creak again.

  “They do not. I’m sorry, Cheri. She’ll be okay. She’ll get better. Please try not to worry. She has to do this on her own.”

  “This is un-” Her voice broke. “Unbelievable.” Tears trailed down Cheri’s cheeks. “I feel helpless.”

  “She’ll be fine. Try not to worry. I need to go now. I have to shower and catch a train. Goodbye.”

  Sick with worry, Cheri couldn’t sleep. She padded into the kitchen, made strong coffee, put her head on the dining room table, and wept. I can’t tell anyone. Mom would be furious and embarrassed, plus she and Dad always want to protect the Van Buren brand. Shit. I feel like drinking right now.

  Three cups of coffee later, Cheri did what she knew best and cooked a feast. Since she was alone, she froze the mountain of food, hoping it could be used at Hope’s future wedding. She crammed the last dish in her freezer and shook her head. My poor mother.

  Chapter 58

  Still in tears after hearing her mom was in rehab, Cheri drove to Soggy Bottoms, deciding a sweet cowboy and beautiful countryside were the therapy she needed.

  She arrived before sunset. Cole had already placed a quilt, beer, small wine bottles and a picnic basket in the backyard. Cheri wrapped her arms around Cole. “This is exactly what I needed, cowboy.”

  “Glad to oblige, New York. You’re a sight for sore eyes.” He held her face in his hands and kissed her. “We were so busy at my party we didn’t get to neck.”

  Giggling, Cheri said, “No one calls it necking anymore.”

  “They should.”

  She opened the lid of the wooden basket. “What did you put in here?” She found cheese, crackers, grapes, strawberries, carrots, and hummus. He peeked over her shoulder. “I know, I know. You’d probably prefer burgers or hotdogs but we had all of that at our party. I thought healthy food was in order.”

  “Well done. Healthy is good.”

  Cole popped the top off his beer and poured wine into a plastic, stemless wineglass. “Here’s to the prettiest girl in the county—heck in the whole United States.”

  She winked. “Not the world?” Leaning over to kiss him, she said, “Alex is rubbing off on me. The States is big enough for me.”

  Cole dipped a carrot stick in the hummus. Cheri fed him a strawberry and he returned the favor. He rolled up his long sleeves. “Winter will be here before we know it. We need to enjoy all of the warm fall days we can.”

  Cheri stared up at the blue sky and white, billowy clouds. “I never get tired of this view. In Manhattan, all I ever see are skyscrapers and more skyscrapers.” She turned to Cole. “You should go there with me sometime.”

  “And leave paradise?” He winked as he sipped his beer. “We’ll see, New York. I’m pretty tied down to my farm, but I never say never.”

  “Good. I’d love for you to meet my mom. Maybe we can coordinate a trip with her sometime.”

  “What about your dad?”

  Cheri’s face fell. “He doesn’t even have time for me. Sadly, Dad’s a workaholic but let’s don’t get into that. I want to enjoy today.” She popped another strawberry into her mouth and leaned back on her elbows as a cow mooed. “Have you ever thought about getting pigs or horses?”

  “Yeah, I had pigs years ago. They’re a muddy mess and smell bad if you’re downwind.” Cole wrinkled his nose.

  “And horses?”

  “Maybe. I’ve got plenty of space, that’s for sure.” Cole turned toward Cheri. “If you like horses, I’ll put that on my to-do list.”

  Her chest swelled. “You’d do that for me?”

  “I would.” Cole ate a few slices of cheese. “I didn’t know you were a horse person.”

  She smiled. “I’ve never actually ridden one but they’re beautiful animals.”

  He roared. “Okay, then maybe we should start out with trail rides at Dogwood Canyon. That might be more your speed.”

  She brightened. “I’d love that but not any time soon. I’m covered up with business and family issues.”

  “Family? Anything you want to talk about?” Cole swigged more of his beer.

  Cheri wanted to be honest with him, especially after their recent incident. “I think I’ve told you Mom drinks too much. I haven’t been able to reach her for weeks. Dad said she’s in rehab. I can’t call her.” Her voice broke. “She must be so afraid. She’s in Europe, as you know.” She sniffled. “She’s so far away and alone.”

  He put his arms around her. “I’m sorry, little pony.” He kissed her cheek. “What can I do to help?”

  She buried her face in his chest. “Just hold me.”

  Chapter 59

  Nervous about her engagement, the wedding, and now an unknown teen daughter added to the mix, Hope ate everything in sight. She stepped on the scale before going to school and peered at the number through her fingers. Oh, my God. I’ve gained fifteen pounds from stress eating. I don’t want to get fatter before my wedding. I know Tucker won’t care, but I do. She groaned. How can I lose weight if I’m at school all day?

  While driving to Hilltop, a plan formulated when she spotted a rival school’s track team jogging down the sidewalk. The second she arrived she went straight to the principal’s office and knocked on the d
oor.

  The always-friendly African-American principal, Dr. Holmes, waved her inside. “Good morning, Hope. What a pleasant surprise. Have a seat.”

  Before Hope had a chance to talk, Dr. Holmes reached for her hand. “I heard a rumor about you, and after seeing that brilliant diamond, I assume it’s true.”

  Hope felt herself blush. She knew she must be the talk of the school. Glancing at her engagement ring, she said, “It’s true. I’m engaged to an incredible man named Tucker.”

  “Congratulations. I’m thrilled for you. I didn’t even know you were dating.”

  A nervous laugh escaped. “No one did. It was a rather quick engagement, but I met him a year ago on a trip to Nashville.”

  Dr. Holmes took a sip of coffee as she studied Hope. She motioned toward a Keurig in the corner. “Can I get you some coffee?”

  Hope shook her head. “I’ll stick with our lovely coffee in the teachers’ lounge.” She immediately regretted the insult, afraid Dr. Holmes would take offense.

  The principal roared with laughter. “Isn’t that the worst coffee? I still haven’t found out who makes it every morning. Maybe it’s left over from the day before.” She again motioned to the Keurig. “Why do you think I bought this neat contraption?”

  “Those are nice. I don’t know why I never thought of it.”

  Dr. Holmes grinned. “Maybe you should add one to your wedding registry. I’ll be the first to buy it for you.”

  “You’re sweet. Thanks.” Hope placed her hands in her lap. “I’m sure you’re busy. I won’t take up a lot of time since I came in unannounced.”

  Dr. Holmes’ forehead creased. “Please tell me you’re not leaving us. The students love you and so do I. Some of them might not make it through the school year without you, Hope. You’re an integral part of Hilltop—”

  Hope shook her head. “No, no. It’s nothing like that.” She took a deep breath. “In fact, it might seem superficial on the surface—and it would actually benefit me since I have an ulterior motive—but I’ve heard these types of things can help with insurance expenses for the school.”

  Dr. Holmes leaned forward and clasped her hands. “I’m listening.”

  What would you think if I talked to some other faculty and coaches and started a wellness program at HHS?”

  “I think that’s inspired.” Dr. Holmes shifted in her chair. “Go on.”

  “To be perfectly honest”—Hope paused-“I know I’m not the picture of health. I’ve gained weight and want to lose it before my wedding day.”

  Dr. Holmes’ brows furrowed. “I hope your fiancé isn’t on you about weight.”

  “Oh, no. If anything, he prefers thick women.” She made a face. “I hate that term but you know what I mean. I know I’ll never be tall and skinny like my friends. That’s not my body type, but I think we can make exercise fun. And if you approve it for a, say one-hour P.E. credit, more kids will join in.”

  Dr. Holmes stepped over to the coffee maker, popped in a pod, and brewed a cup of strong coffee. “What ideas do you have in mind for activities?”

  Sensing she might get the principal’s support, Hope’s mind raced. She had only thought of a couple of ideas on the drive to school. “I’d love to get other faculty members involved. So, I thought I’d contact the English teachers and have their classes write quotes, inspirational or funny messages on the sidewalk during two-mile walks. This would delight passersby.”

  “I love that. What else?” Dr. Holmes said as the first bell rang.

  “A hula hoop contest would be fun. We could get the cheerleaders involved and have a timed competition. Same for a jump rope contest. When I was a kid we played crab ball in the gym where students walk belly up on all fours like a crab. It’s hilarious.”

  “Ah, I remember doing that. Great fun. These are fabulous ideas, Hope. You’ve put a lot of thought into this.”

  Yeah, on the way from my house to the school. I guess I’m fast on my feet when I’m motivated. Hope’s mind raced. “Of course, we could do traditional things like tennis, and”—she brightened—“I bet the football players would set up an easy-to-moderate obstacle course in the school’s backyard.”

  Dr. Holmes stood. “Say no more. I’m approving this. I think our insurance carrier will be impressed. Thank you for spearheading this, Hope, and feel free to involve as many faculty members as you want. Maybe you can tag team and take turns overseeing activities because I’m sure you’re busy with wedding plans.” She glanced at her watch. “I have an appointment but feel free to send an email to this effect to HHS staff and faculty. You can determine whether this works best before or after school.” She shook Hope’s hand. “Great job, and congratulations again on your engagement.”

  Hope was giddy about the new program and practically skipped to the teachers’ lounge. Two coaches and Willow were inside. She gave them an overview to much enthusiasm. The coaches loved the obstacle course idea and suggested a sign-up sheet for interested faculty. “I should attend every session but may not make it. Great idea about a sign-up sheet.”

  “I want to incorporate art with this program.” Willow put a finger on her chin and thought for a moment. “I know.” She snapped her fingers. “My art students can make and paint kites to fly. I needed a new project for them. Flying kites on a windy fall day will be good exercise and loads of fun. I’ll take that shift.”

  “That’s perfect.” Hope smiled as she poured a cup of nasty coffee. For once, she didn’t even mind the taste.

  ~ ~ ~

  After sending an email to the faculty and staff about Hilltop’s new wellness program, a.k.a. Hope’s diet program, her stomach butterflies kicked in. “What if no students show up?” She paced her office. I’ve got to think of something really entertaining to kick this off.” She sat down at her computer and Googled outdoor games. “A Slip ‘n Slide appeared.” Hope laughed out loud. “If this doesn’t get the kids to join in, nothing will.” She checked her schedule and realized she had a one-hour opening.

  Hope drove to Walmart, bought the Slip ‘n Slide, which was on clearance since summer was over. Smiling at her good fortune, she paid, and returned to school. She Googled the weather forecast and scheduled the kick-off for the following day. At lunch, all of the students were chattering about bringing their swimsuits and how excited they were. She reached for a food tray, and bypassed the burger and fries, choosing a salad and vegetable soup instead. Brownies and cookies called her name but she was determined to lose a few pounds.

  Chapter 60

  Hope stared out her office window. The sky was gray and the wind howled. The meteorologist was wrong. Dead wrong. She frowned. Today was the kickoff for the school’s new wellness program with a wet activity, no less.

  She gathered the Slip ‘n Slide and traipsed down the hall, only expecting a handful of students outside. Her mouth fell open when she saw at least fifty teens wearing swimsuits and rubbing their arms and legs from the cold.

  Some of the guys helped her spread out the tarp while the girls attached hoses. Within minutes a line formed. The students ran up and down, back and forth, and slid down the slippery blue plastic tarp, getting squirted by water the entire time.

  Britney’s wet hair hung around her face. “Where’s your swimsuit, Miss Truman?”

  Hope bellowed. “While I do want to lose weight, I don’t want to be seen in a swimsuit. I thought I’d sit the first activity out, but I’ll join in with all of the others.”

  Britney’s legs had purple splotches from the cold. She leaned into Hope. “You’re warm. I’m freezing.”

  Hope’s face fell. “I hope no one catches a cold. Maybe we should cut this short.” She cupped her hands around her mouth. “Hey, everyone. Welcome to our first-ever wellness activity. Are you having fun?”

  A chorus of “yes” greeted her as the student
s ran, slipped, slid, and repeated the process.

  “If you want to stop since it’s so cold, we can.”

  She heard: “No way.” “It’s not cold.” “I’m not a sissy.”

  Hope reveled in their youth. The wind blew her hair in her face and she wrapped her sweater tightly around her, wondering how the students stood the cold. She yelled, “Kids, twenty more minutes.”

  When the activity ended, Hope handed everyone towels that Larry-Mac, the school janitor, must have found in the locker room. Her adoptive dad stood beside her. “Crazy kids. I did this back in my day with my first wife. We couldn’t afford no pool, so we did this instead.”

  Hope’s head snapped around. “Did you say your first wife? Do you remember her?”

  He shook his head. “No, but I remember doing this with someone.”

  A stab of disappointment flowed through her since Larry-Mac hadn’t had an actual breakthrough with his memory. But she wasn’t going to let it get her down. She had traveled down this road with him many times.

  Turning back toward the students, she handed out towels. “Some of you will have to share. Giggles ensued as girls wrapped up three to a towel while the macho boys decided to drip dry.

  “Who wants to help me take up the tarp and roll up the hoses?”

  The football and basketball players raced to see who would outdo each other.

  Hope smiled. “Everyone, I’m going to put a suggestion box outside my office. Feel free to suggest other wellness activities. We have several in mind but want to keep this going all semester and maybe all year. Thanks for participating.”