Page 25 of Billionaire's Coastal Haven

“Ryan and I were visiting his grandmother when we saw you two walking. Looked like it was taking a lot out of him.”

Right. Because Ryan’s grandma lives two doors down from my dad. With neighbors like her, how have we kept Dad’s secret as long as we have? “He has good days and bad days.” I shrug and add a smile to half my face.

She leans her elbows on the counter and whispers next to my ear. “If you want to talk, I’m always available. Come by the house.”

Francesca has only lived in Rainwater Bay for about six months, but she feels like a staple, like she’s always been here, with her friendly smile and problem-solving ways. Maybe she can help me figure out why Dad’s so mad. When not making chai, she runs a multi-million-dollar fashion house, for goodness sakes, so maybe she knows how I can change his mind and spur growth in Rainwater Bay.

If nothing else, she doesn’t have preconceived notions or biases about our traditions.

“I’d love—”

The bell over the door rings, and Lucky shakes the water from her umbrella, dropping it by the door.

“What’s the problem, Baby Girl?” Lucky puckers her bottom lip. “That’s a big frown.”

“I’m fine.”Just hoping to avoid you.

“Are you? Are youreally?” Saccharine sweet condescension drips from her fake smile.

Francesca presses the warm chai into my hand. “We’ll talk later.”

“Thanks. I look forward to it.” I attempt to step around Lucky, but she blocks my path.

“What did Mayor Winslow say about the town council’s decision?”

I swallow the truth. “He’s interested in the idea, but like everyone, has concerns.”

“It’s probably killing him that he can’t stop us, isn’t it? Veto is his favorite word.”

“That’s not—”

“Ha! He hates new ideas. When was the last time he approved anything besides harassing my parents about something at the marina?”

“You’re generalizing.”

“Am I? I don’t think so. My parents wanted to add five more berths to the marina, and he denied the permits. Then when Jack and Charlotte wanted to buy the vacant lot next to them and expand, he bought the property himself for half what Jack offered. That developer wanted to build new townhouses south of town, and he claimed there was an endangered woodpecker.” She braces her long fingers across her hip. “Your dad is the worst mayor we’ve ever had. No vision. He only keeps winning elections because of your last name and the fact that he bribes all his friends to get their people to vote for him. If I were mayor, this town would be one hundred times better.”

I sigh. “Feel better after your little rant?”

She bristles. “You know I’m right.”

“Dad does what’s best for our town. He’s cautious, doesn’t jump into things without looking at all the factors.”

“Whatever. He can’t be mayor forever.”

I nod. “You’re right, but when he’s done, then it will be my turn.”

“Don’t make me laugh. You? Mayor? Baby Girl, I’ll beat you just like I beat you for student body president.”

“Can I get you a drink?” Francesca interrupts.

“Vanilla breve latte with macadamia nut milk, half-caff. Extra hot. And a blueberry scone.” She plops her purse on the counter and digs inside, finding a shimmery pink lip gloss she applies liberally to her lips using the reflection from the espresso machine. “Zoe, your family’s tyranny is over. You think you’re better than all of us—always have—but you’re wrong. The council listens to me now.”

I bite my tongue. Bickering with Lucky won’t solve any of my problems. It will just give her what she wants: attention, the thrill of a fight, a way to twist my words into something I didn’t say that she can report to the council to improve her reputation.

I’m not giving her anything.

Francesca hands Lucky her drink.