Page 74 of Valentines In The Presidential Suite

“It’s as outstanding as all the reviews indicated,” said Brad, who, in his lawyer-like fashion, had done some research on The Beach House Hotel.

“I can’t believe we’re here. It’s so ritzy yet comfortable,” said Morgan. Privately, she was glad she’d splurged on some new clothes. It was obvious that other guests appreciated the finest things.

Brad pulled her into his arms. “As Rhonda said, it’s a perfect place for a wedding. Think about it. Just the two of us.”

“What? Really? What about your parents?” Morgan asked. “Your mother would be disappointed to miss it. And Ashley would be, too.”

“Just think about it. I don’t want to push you into anything you don’t want. But I really like the idea of a tiny wedding without a lot of trouble.”

“What I want right now is to get out of these clothes and into a bathing suit to take a walk on the beach.”

Brad kissed her. “Okay, that’s a plan we both like.”

###

As they strolled hand in hand along the beach, Morgan told herself to stop thinking about a wedding at the hotel. How could it happen so quickly? It could be a disaster instead of the dreamy wedding she’d hoped for.

Morgan walked into the lacy fringe of the water and watched as waves rolled in, curled around her ankles, and pulled away again. Above her, seagulls and terns swirled in the sky, their white wings like sails against the blue of the sky. She observed the sandpipers and sanderlings hurry along the water’s edge searching for food.

She let out a sigh of contentment.

“This is really special,” said Brad. “Winters back home can be dreary. I love the sunshine and warmth here.”

“Me too. Let’s have drinks in the lounge before we go to dinner. I want to feel a part of this swishy group of people.” Morgan chuckled. “Is that awful of me to say?”

“Not at all,” said Brad. “Though guests come for privacy, they must know they’ll be seen, even if no one can talk about it.”

Morgan grinned at him. “I love that you understand me and are willing to have some fun together.”

Brad’s smile was sexy. “Oh, I plan to have fun with you, all right.”

As they were kissing, Morgan felt someone draw near. She looked up, saw an older man with gray hair, and pulled away from Brad.

“Hello, there,” said the man. “I’m Brock Goodwin. You must be new at the hotel. Got any interesting news? I’m the President of the Neighborhood Association and need to keep up to date as to what’s going on in the neighborhood.”

“We have nothing to tell you,” Brad replied, his tone ending further conversation.

“Oh, well. Perhaps I’ll see you around. I’m almost famous in these parts,” the man said, giving them a wave goodbye.

“What a creep,” said Morgan. “I think we should tell the owners about him.”

“Yes. He could be a problem for them,” said Brad. “Are you ready to go back to the room?”

“I thought you’d never ask,” Morgan said playfully.

He laughed, and taking her hand, they headed back to the hotel.

###

The next evening, Morgan dabbed a little of the perfume gift that had been left in the suite behind her ears and on her wrists. It felt like such a glamorous thing to do. She took a last glance in the mirror to gaze at the red dress she’d bought for the occasion. A sleeveless sheath with a sweetheart neckline made it suitable for the evening.

When she stepped out of the bedroom, Brad let out a low whistle. “You look terrific. You’ll be the hit of the evening.”

Morgan chuckled. “I wouldn’t say that, but I’m looking forward to the party. Apparently, one of the benefits of this package is the opportunity to attend it. One of the maids told me that the party is sold out months in advance.”

He held out his arm to her. “Let’s have another sightseeing drink in the lounge. I’m as curious as you about some of the other guests.”

They entered the lounge to see that they weren’t the only ones to have that idea. Brad noticed an empty table in the corner and led Morgan there.