As she walked inside, she realized she’d been listening to her instincts about her business. It was time she started doing that with her personal life, too.
She had to be honest with herself—and with Sailor. Yet the fear remained; what if he wanted something entirely different?
She’d been trying to fit herself into someone else’s expectations instead of finding alignment with someone she loved. That would be a risk she had to take.
“I’ll take out the food,” Maileah said to her mother. “Why don’t you relax and join Nana?”
April smiled at her. “How nice. Thanks, sweetheart.”
Junie watched the exchange as she poured the sauce over the penne and added a garnish. After their mother left, she said, “You have changed. For the better.”
Maileah laughed, but she appreciated her sister’s compliment. “I guess I took a little longer to grow up. Hope I don’t regress.”
“I don’t think you will. Crown Island seems to have a good effect on people.” Junie grinned. “But no guarantees if you leave.”
Maileah put the salad and pasta on a tray. “Good, because I’ve decided to stay put.”
Over dinner, the conversation turned to the charity event tomorrow.
“I can hardly wait to see Sailor on those waves,” Junie said. “Should we get there early?”
“I think you should,” Maileah told her. Ella had already heard and approved the plans with the board. “The surfing competition begins in the morning. I’ve also organized a beach reception later with the surfers and fans for photos and autographs. You have no idea how many asked if Adrian would be there, so I asked him, too.”
“Maybe he’ll finally get that record deal he’s always wanted,” Ella said.
“And a girlfriend,” April added, chuckling. “He’s a sweet guy, and he deserves it all.”
Ella raised her brow. “I thought he always liked Deb.”
“That was a long time ago in high school,” April replied, shaking her head. “He had a variety of crushes, like we all did back then.”
“Adrian is so excited to play at the dinner tomorrow,” Maileah said. “His friend is still visiting, so he’ll join him. This event will be a lot of fun, and remember, no fancy dresses. Strictly island casual.”
Maileah was excited, too. Even though she would be working, this would be a day to remember.
When the firstrays of sunlight filtered through the gauzy curtains of Maileah’s cottage, she whipped out of bed withexcitement. Her mind was already racing, and nervous energy thrummed through her veins.
As she brushed her hair into a ponytail, Maileah’s heart skipped at a tap on the door. She padded across the hardwood floor.
Sailor stood on her porch, looking unfairly handsome in board shorts and a faded T-shirt that hugged his athletic frame. In his hands were two fresh cups of coffee.
She welcomed him with a kiss. “You read my mind.”
Sailor handed her a cup. “I thought you could use a kickstart.”
Maileah accepted the coffee gratefully, inhaling deeply. “You’re a lifesaver.” She took a sip. The potent brew was what she needed. “Wow, that’s bold.”
Sailor nodded, looking pleased with himself. “Only the best for you. Hey, I’m heading to the beach now to get a feel for the waves before the event. I know it’s early, but want a lift?”
“That would be great. I wanted to get there early and take some shots. I’ll grab my bag.”
She ducked back inside, retrieving the beach bag she’d meticulously packed the night before. She’d thought of everything they might need for the event: sunscreen, portable chargers, first aid kit.
“Ready,” she said.
“I’ll take that for you.” He reached for her bag.
She shrugged off his attempt. “I’ve got it.”
