Florida House

By Linda Kennedy

McKenzie Harris fled her home in Orlando to take a nursing position on Jupiter Island. An idealistic young woman, she was crushed by a broken relationship and a fury with the discovery of her mother's past. With an untested faith she turns away from a God who has allowed such pain in her life. Will the handsome Hunter Nichols be able to overcome her hesitancy to risk her heart again? What will she discover to give her second thoughts about forgiveness for her mother? And what will happen to her faith?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Linda Kennedy
• Release date: Feb 26, 2018
• ISBN: 9781370262854

Linda Kennedy

Graduate of Calif. State University at Chico and Jerry Jenkins Writer's Guild. Author of two short stories: A Mother's Strength and A Day In The Life, published by A New Song, an inspirational magazine. Author of Christian fiction novel series, Harris Family including Brookes Miracle, Florida House, The Way Back and The Promise.

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Florida House

(c) 2014 by Linda Kennedy

Smashwords Edition

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Edited By: Paige Duke @www.thepaigeduke.com

Cover Design: Daliborka Mijailovic/99 designs [e-mail]

Table of Contents

Start of Florida House

Author’s Notes

About the Author

Connect with Linda Kennedy

Other Novels by Linda Kennedy

Florida House

Chapter One

McKenzie left her bags in the car and walked up the steps. She took a deep breath, braced herself, and rang the doorbell. It was a massive, twelve-bedroom mansion, she’d been told, with an equal number of bathrooms. No answer. Hmmm…she stepped back and checked the address. Yes, she was in the right place. She was tempted to turn-tail and run right back home to Orlando. But...she could do better than that. She needed to do better than that.

She rang the bell again. A few moments more and the door opened. A tiny, dark-haired, young woman stood looking out at her.

Hi, I’m McKenzie Harris. I’m the nurse hired to take care of Mrs. Saladki.

Oh, we weren’t expecting you until tomorrow. She opened the door to let her in. I’m Lilly. We’re back in the kitchen having lunch. Have you eaten?

No. I wasn’t sure how long it would take me. So I came straight here.

She followed Lilly through the entryway and down steps to an enormous room filled with small couches, chairs and tables, seemingly arranged for conversational groups. Its main feature was a wall of glass overlooking the ocean. They turned right, taking them through a dining room that could easily seat fifty people. A walk through the butler’s pantry brought them into a smaller dining room before reaching a large kitchen. Three faces turned in her direction from the center island.

This is McKenzie, the new nurse, Lilly said. That’s Rosie, resident chef. She indicated the other woman in the room. Her husband, Max, oversees the Mister’s properties or something like that. They all chuckled. And Jonah, our chauffeurs, keeps up the cars, and takes care of anything that needs repair around here.

McKenzie nodded to each one as they were introduced and waited for some indication of what she should do next.

Welcome to Florida House, Rosie said in a thick Scottish brogue. Did ya have your lunch yet, lassie?

No, ma’am.

Don’t be shy then. Up to the counter there. Will crab salad sandwiches be suitin’ you? That’s what we had a fancy to.

As she warmed to Rosie’s cheerful invitation, the muscles in her shoulders relaxed for the first time since she’d started out that morning. Yes, ma’am, that sounds great. She scooted up on a stool at the end of the island, and sneaked a peak at the two men while Rosie put her sandwich together.

You just missed Hunter. Rosie set a plate in front of her with a sandwich of crab salad on a croissant, a slice of lemon and a small bowl of fresh fruit. He’s the groundskeeper, he is, and he’s got a load of new palms come in. Had to give the lads directions where to put them. He takes care of the landscaping around here like Lilly keeps the house. Neat as a pin, the both of them.

Lilly ducked her head and blushed. Just doing my job. You learn how to clean when you’re the oldest of six kids.

Jonah gave Lilly a wink and then turned to McKenzie. Heard you were coming all the way from Orlando. Can’t find work up there?

Just looking for a change of scenery, she said.

Jonah nodded. Seems a bit far for the Mister to be looking for a nurse—

Mind your manners, Jonah. Tisn’t enough she’s starting a new job with a bunch of strangers without you challenging her qualifications?

She already loved this lady. It’s okay. I know it seems a bit strange that a nurse wasn’t hired from around here. My papa flew Mr. Wise around the country for many years and Mr. Wise is a friend of Mr. Saladki. When Mr. Saladki mentioned he needed a full-time nurse for his wife, Mr. Wise thought of me.

Well, and for sure it’s a good choice. Rosie gave the counter a swipe with a cloth. What would you be liking to drink? I’ve got some nice raspberry iced tea.

Perfect. The sandwich was the best. She’d been too anxious to eat before she left. A quick drive through Starbucks for a bracing cup of coffee had been her breakfast. Lilly seemed nice enough and Rosie was a gem. This could be the best decision of her life, and she sure couldn’t complain about the food.

She took a drink of the tea Rosie put in front of her and savored the sweet, fruity flavor. When will I meet Mrs. Saladki? Will she be coming for lunch?

Max pushed his empty plate aside and leaned forward. Mrs. Saladki has all of her meals in her room. Best wait until tomorrow, since she isn’t expecting you to arrive before then.

That’ll give you a chance to get settled, Jonah added. Leave your keys with me. I’ll drive your car around and bring up your bags when you’re finished with lunch. Lilly can give you a quick tour around the place.

I think I might need a map. McKenzie grinned as her co-workers chuckled. She ate the last of her sandwich and took a long drink of her tea. That was wonderful, Rosie. If nothing else, I’m going to be loving the food.

Go on with you now. Rosie waved away the compliment. I’ve got some leftover apple tart if you’ve a mind.

No. She raised her hands in protest. I’m stuffed, and I need to save room for dinner.

Fair enough. We’ll be having dinner at six. No one else in the house but Missus for the present, and Lilly will be taking her tray up before. She started clearing the dishes and putting away food. Lilly, be a good lassie and show McKenzie to her room, love. She turned to McKenzie. I’m sure you’ll be wantin’ to settle in. Take a walk on the beach if you like and get your bearings.

Ready? Lilly asked as McKenzie put her napkin on her plate, took a last sip of tea, and slid off the stool.

I’m right behind you. She followed her out of the kitchen and back through the way they’d come.

You’ll be staying on this side of the house, Lilly said as they crossed the large room overlooking the ocean. So you’ll be close to Mrs. Saladki.

They passed a library on the left, a more formal living room with a grand piano on the right, and headed down a hallway to…could this really be? Yep, an elevator. Well, why not? It shouldn’t be surprising in a house this size.

I’ll show you how to get out to the beach from this side before I take you upstairs. There was another hallway to the right of the elevator that led to a game room with a pool table, a game table, and a large, well-equipped bar. Couches and chairs were arranged for lounging, and watching the home theatre. Another wall of glass gave full exposure to the beach and ocean beyond.

The exit is here in the corner. She opened a door to a bathroom stocked with both beach and bath towels and a walk-in shower. That door over there goes outside. You can leave your clothes here and shower before going upstairs or just rinse off to keep the sand from the rest of the house.

I didn’t think there would be much time for that sort of thing…you know, taking care of Mrs. Saladki.

Lilly hesitated before answering. She’s not in need of much for now. More of a precaution for emergencies we’re thinking. Mister travels a lot. She turned back to the game room. So that’s the access to the beach. I’ll show you your room now.

The elevator went to the third floor. They took the hallway in front of them, passing one door. She pointed to the second one on the left and spoke softly, Mrs. Saladki’s rooms. Mr. Saladki is in the first adjoining rooms. They went a bit farther down the hall and Lilly opened the next door. This used to be the nursery, but it’s been converted to a guest suite.

Her quarters consisted of a sitting room, a bedroom, and bath. A thrill went through her when Lilly pulled the heavy drapes open to another view of the ocean. How perfect was this? She sat down in a yellow-brocade chair and looked out at the waves rolling in on the beach. Glancing back at Lilly, she nodded toward the matching chair across from a round teak-wood coffee table. Do you have time to visit?

For a bit, sure.

So you’re the housekeeper? How do you do all this by yourself?

Lilly smiled and shook her head. Most of the rooms are shut off now. When Mister and Missus have guests, we have a much larger staff. They have homes in New Jersey, London and Germany. Mister is in London at the present and most of the staff is there.

McKenzie had sudden visions of world travel. Wow, you go to London?

No. There was amusement in her soft lavender eyes. I’m a permanent resident here in Florida. When all the family’s gone, Jonah, Hunter, and I are the caretakers. Rosie and Max travel with the family, but since Missus is here, they’ve come to take care of her. Max will go to London as soon as things are settled. He’ll be back and forth, but Rosie will stay. She’s Missus’ favorite chef. It’s been good for Rosie, traveling to London, since all her family is in Scotland. Max is from New Jersey. That’s how they met when the family was in residence there.

She was curious why Mrs. Saladki would stay here, but how much did she dare pry into her employer’s business? I would think Mrs. Saladki would rather be in London. They surely have good doctors there.

Lilly looked out the window and waited before answering. Missus has fond memories of coming to Florida with her family when she was young. Her brother has a home here on the island. She turned back to McKenzie. Missus hasn’t taken this news well. I’m sure you’ve been told of her condition.

McKenzie shifted in her chair. Maybe she had pushed Lilly too far, but she wanted some insight about what she was walking into. I haven’t been told much. Just that she has MS.

Lilly sighed. There’s no doubt she’s been having some pain in her legs, but it makes us sad to see her give up so easily. She’s basically shut herself off from everyone. Mister needs to travel with all his business interests, and I’m afraid Missus discourages him from coming here.

Do they have children?

She nodded. Three boys and a daughter. All grown now, with lives of their own. The boys are part of Mister's business empire but they run their end from all over the world.

McKenzie remembered when her grandfather was diagnosed with terminal cancer. As soon as they'd heard, they drove over to Tampa to be with him. So, do they come to visit their mother?

Lilly shrugged a shoulder.

Apparently, she’d tapped her for all the information she was going to get.

There was a soft knock on the door, and Lilly jumped up to open it. McKenzie stood as well.

Jonah was on the other side with her three bags.

He gave Lilly a more-than-friendly look and then looked over at McKenzie. Where would you like these?

Just put them in the bedroom. Thanks for doing that, Jonah. I’m not used to all this service.

He grinned. Don’t get too used to it. It’s just 'cause you’re new.

Lilly laughed and shook her head. Don’t let him fool you. He’s at your beck and call.

He carried the bags into the room, deposited them, and turned to go.

Lilly followed him out. Time to get back. Rosie will be looking for me, she said and gave a little wave.

See you at dinner, McKenzie said. As the door closed, she grinned to herself. Something was definitely blooming between those two. She slipped into a bit of melancholy remembering those secret glances. Don’t go there, she reminded herself. Better get busy with the unpacking. The beach looked inviting, but maybe she would save that for after dinner when it wasn’t so hot. From the looks of things, there was a lot to explore.

After filling the closet and drawer space to her satisfaction, she sank down on the end of the bed. Sleep had come in fitful snatches last night. Leaving familiar surroundings was a completely new thing. She’d grown up in Orlando and kept many of the same friends, even after completing her nurse’s training and going to work at the hospital. Her long-time friend, Katie, from youth camp, had shared her apartment for the last six months. But continuing to stay there was not an option. It was too hard. Succumbing to the soft king-size bed, sleep quickly overcame her. She awoke with a start and looked at her watch. It was a little past six. What a way to impress everyone by arriving late for dinner. She ran a brush through her hair and hurried out the door.

Sorry, she said as she stepped into the smaller dining room where the group was already seated. I didn’t realize I was so tired. I was just going to lay down for a sec and the next thing I knew it was past six.

Don’t worry yourself, dearie, Rosie said. Just take a seat there next to Lilly. Hunter, this is McKenzie, the nurse for Missus.

A blond, bronze-tanned guy in his late twenties sat across from her. His bright green eyes surveyed her with an appraising look. Miss McKenzie, he said in a condescending tone.

Just McKenzie, if you please.

A smirk crossed his lips as he continued to look at her over his poised fork. As you wish, McKenzie.

What a twit. Who does this guy think he is? She was formulating a retort when she noted a frown on Rosie’s brow.

I’m just here to work like everyone else, she said softly. She was the newbie here. She’d already shown up late for dinner. Sure didn’t need to get into a brawl with the yard man.

Conversation was at an uncomfortable standstill while they ate in silence for what seemed like a decade. The roast and potatoes were delicious but the smug jerk across the table made it difficult to enjoy.

Max finally spoke up. You said your father is a pilot, McKenzie?

Hunter snorted.

McKenzie shot him a look and took a breath before answering. Yes, that is, he was. Well, he’s still a pilot, but he’s not flying anymore.

Hunter shook his head and shoveled in another forkful.

He worked for a friend of Mr. Saladki. Who was it you said?

She leaned forward to focus on Max and ignore the hostile Hunter across the table. Mr. Wise. He owns a machining factory in Orlando with divisions around the country. My father flew Mr. Wise and other executives to meetings, seminars, that sort of thing.

Jonah nodded. Interesting work.

Actually, he started out flying aviation missions.

Max paused, a bite halfway to his mouth. That’s quite a switch.

I was young when his plane was shot down on his way back from Columbia. He was captured, and they held him for months before he managed to escape.

Guess that would kill your interest in going back, Jonah said.

McKenzie shook her head. Not really. It was my mother who decided it was too much of a risk. When my papa was offered the job with Mr. Wise, she and my grandmother pushed for his career change.

So he’s retired now? said Rosie.

Well, retired from flying. My grandfather owns a horse farm, and he’s really the one who’s retiring.

Hunter rolled his eyes and took a gulp of his iced tea.

Ignore him, she told herself. My father’s taking it over. My grandparents built a home at one end of the farm so they’re still around for him to keep his finger in the pie. But Papa does the day-to-day operations.

Lilly’s eyes danced. Does that mean you got to ride horses?

McKenzie laughed. My papa had me on a horse before I was six months old…just like my grandpa did with him.

Lilly shook her head. I can’t imagine a life like that. I grew up where you were lucky to have a ride to school.

It doesn’t matter where you grow up, everybody has their problems. She looked down at her plate. Why do people assume money excludes you from the hassles of life?

Hunter wiped his mouth with his napkin, dropped it on his plate and stood. If you will excuse me, I need to get the rest of those palms in before dark.

Oh, but dunna you want some dessert? I made your favorite caramel pudding. Rosie started to get up for his dish.

Finish your dinner, Rosie. I’ll be back in for a snack later on. He shoved his chair in place and headed out through the kitchen.

She saw Jonah and Lilly watch him go out, while Max and Rosie exchanged a puzzled look. Now what had she done to cause that?

Chapter Two

McKenzie pulled on a pair of shorts and a tank-top,