into these little stockings that Mom’s quilt club made? Not only are the kids going to love them, they’re going to be a hit with the contest judges—a super-high scorer.”
Each event would be attended by a member from DeBolt Realty’s judging panel. Input from attendees would be encouraged and factored into the final scoring, as well.
Events included everything from Christmas concerts and plays to fancy dinners and wine-and-cheese tastings—anything that would “generate a feeling of community and holiday enthusiasm.” Scores were based on creativity, attendance, execution and Christmas spirit.
“Whole-grain crackers?” Camile shot a horrified look at Nina. “Next thing you know, she’s going to be passing out those little boxes of raisins on Halloween. She’ll be that house...”
Nina reached out and placed a hand on Camile’s shoulder. With exaggerated solemnity she said, “Camile, honey, I hate to tell you this, but she’s already that house. I begged her, but... She passed out protein bars this year.”
“They were chocolate chip!” Aubrey protested. “Plenty of sugar in there to constitute a treat, but the protein and fiber mixed with the sugar helps to prevent that blood sugar crash that no parent wants their child to be subjected to.”
“Protein bars?” Camile pressed her fingers against her temples. “And her house didn’t get egged?”
“I’m sure it was only because everyone in the neighborhood knows she’s Coast Guard. Most of them also know she’s Captain Brian Wynn’s daughter.” She added a slow, sad head shake. “But I’m afraid that will only shield her for so long before—”
Aubrey rolled her eyes. “You are both hilarious. I will admit they weren’t that popular with the trick-or-treaters. Next year I’m thinking about fruit cups. Now, can we get back on track? Our volunteers should be showing up any minute now. I want to have everything ready so we can start stuffing these stockings. I need to win this thing.”
When Aubrey had heard about the competition, she’d pounced on the opportunity, teaming up with Mayor Jack Hobbes as co-chair. The mayor was on a quest to attract wealthy tourists as well as new property-tax-paying residents to Pacific Cove. Aubrey wanted Pacific Cove to win the community improvement money. The town council had agreed to a deal where the bulk of the prize money would go to a project that was dear to her heart, the refurbishment of Pacific Cove’s swimming pool. Their combined efforts would bring exposure to the town and its businesses and, if things went smoothly, would also save the pool in the process.
“So, who’s going to be your Santa?” Camile asked as she scooped up a box of taffy and set it off to one side. In addition to her position as co-chair, Aubrey had taken the lead on this fun-for-the-family event, “A Visit with Santa.”
“Pete Stahl has committed to doing it. Isn’t that perfect? He even looks like Santa.”
“He’s a great choice. And I do like the books,” Camile said, opening a cardboard box to reveal a collection of holiday titles for kids. “And the coupons for bowling at Fast Lanes and free admission to Saturday Swim at the pool. I can see what you’re trying to accomplish here. Not only is a visit with Santa family friendly, so are these activities.”
“Not to mention, she’s drawing attention to the plight of her pool,” Nina added.
“You guys can stop trying to appease me. I’m confident.”
“Isn’t she always?” Nina added, exchanging a smile with Camile.
Camile laughed. “I can see how jumping from helicopters and dangling from cables over sea cliffs might prepare a person for volunteer work here in Pacific Cove.”
Aubrey laughed even as a current of discomfort flooded through her at the reminder of what she was trying hard not to think about; Eli was back. She hadn’t even known that he was returning to Pacific Cove. Of course, she’d known two new transfers were arriving on some kind of special assignment, but she’d never heard their names, hadn’t bothered to find out because she’d learn them when she needed to and—
Camile’s voice interrupted her thoughts, “I’ve noticed there are several titles. Are we letting the kids choose what books they want? Or do they just get what they get?”
Good questions. And an even better distraction from the inevitable encounter with Eli.
* * *
AS ELI AND GALE jogged through the streets of Pacific Cove, or “The Cove” as locals often referred to it, Eli marveled at how little things had changed in the twelve years he’d been away. Mission Street was still the main thoroughfare through town, both sides lined with quaint shops selling sand toys, shells, snow globes, plastic pirate swords and other assorted beach trinkets. Colorful flags were waving outside Kassie’s Kites and the saltwater taffy pull was busy working in the window of the Wishing Well Candy and Fudge Shoppe.
He noticed that Salmon Crackers still smelled like the heavenly fresh-baked buns they served their sandwiches on. On the next block, he was thrilled to see Rascal’s Bookstore still in existence. There was a new coffee shop and the smell emanating from Beach Beans Coffee Roasters made his mouth water.
The first day of December and already Christmas lights and garland were strung on every single light pole in town. Shop windows were painted. Many displayed festive holiday scenes and/or gift ideas.
The end of Mission Street featured a large cul-de-sac with a gazebo overlooking the beach. It was a popular meeting spot and a place where community events often centered. They jogged up to the structure and stood off to one side for a quick breather. A large sign advertised that Santa would be visiting there this coming weekend.
They stood side by side for a moment, gazing out at the stunning view of the horizon. Eli closed his eyes for a few seconds and focused on the roar of the ocean—the unique sound that was Pacific Cove. In spite of everything he was facing here, he was glad to be back. So far in his career he’d lived near the beach in Connecticut, New Jersey, North Carolina and San Diego, California. He was positive that if someone blindfolded him and plopped him down on the shore at any of those locales, he’d able to identify each one.
But the Northwest coast was different to him and Pacific Cove was special. He and his father had moved every few years until Eli was twelve. That’s when they’d landed in Pacific Cove. His father had been lucky enough to score back-to-back assignments here and Eli considered it the closest thing to a hometown he’d ever had.
Connected to this place were a billion memories, most of them including or featuring Aubrey. They had spent so much time on this very stretch of beach. He’d kissed her right here once, at the bottom of the stairs, sheltered from passersby under the edge of the boardwalk.
He felt himself shifting from one foot to the other as a fresh bout of anxiety coursed through him. Clearly, she was upset by the fact that he’d gone into the water after her. She’d barely glanced his way as the team had discussed the events back at the base.
Lt. Cdr. Holmes had explained to Aubrey their fear that she’d been knocked silly by the piece of debris. They’d immediately deployed Eli in case she needed assistance. By the time he’d been lowered into the water, the rest of the crew could see she had the situation handled. The consensus had been that she’d executed her duties perfectly.
But the fact was he’d pushed for it. He hadn’t been able to handle the idea of Aubrey being in danger. He’d wondered if Gale
