Sand Candy: A Pirate's Nest Story, #3

By Patricia Otto

At the wedding of the century, candy store co-owner, Ann Jones declares her intentions to get her well-manicured hands on the town's new doctor, Nate Flynn and never let go. She's never had trouble getting her man, so it's only a matter of time and the right outfit.

Nate, cautious with his heart after being burned, has his intentions set on getting to know Ann's sister and store co-owner, Jo.

It's going to be a busy Christmas season in Pirate's Nest, the quaint New England village with the contrary name. As the last of Thanksgiving dinner is eaten and the Christmas tree is on its way to being decorated, some of the residents are feeling love in the winter air, some are feeling bypassed by love yet again and some are feeling the heat of sibling rivalry.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Patricia S. Otto
• Release date: Jun 3, 2019
• ISBN: 9781943860098

Patricia Otto

A few decades ago, I found out that most people don't make up stories about the people they watch while sipping ice tea at a cafe. They do not take a cast of characters from a book or movie and give them a whole new story. Who knew? I thought everyone did that. Then there were the out-of-the-blue-characters. The ones conjured up in my head, telling me their tales, pushing me to write their stories. Sharing them only seemed fair.

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Copyright

Sand Candy Copyright © 2019 by Patricia Otto

Cover Art by Glass Slipper Web Design. Cover Photos: Deposit Photos

EBooks are not transferable. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the author. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of the copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the internet, any electronic or prints means without the publisher's permission.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and events are products of the writer's imagination. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locations or organizations is entirely coincidental.

DEDICATION: For April, Gene, Joe and Justina Bruno, dear friends and owners of Jo-Ann’s Candy House in Wilton, NY. Thank you for allowing me to use your store on the cover and for always being there. You are the best.

Visit the real Jo-Ann’s at: https://www.facebook.com/Jo-Anns-Candy-House-119131774804827/

Chapter 1

Dang-it, I just chipped my nail polish on these stupid fake silver candy pedestals. I went all the way to Axmore for this manicure. Jo Jones’ sister, Ann, looked at the now chipped pink polish on her right index finger. Ugh.

I know the trays are a pain, but they make the candy look fantastic. Jo put together a tiered stand they used to display their candy during special occasions. The special occasion was Maris and Logan’s wedding.

Maybe no one will see it. Ann slipped her hands into the plastic food-service gloves. She began to fill a tray with chocolate truffles. I will admit that you have a gift for getting the chocolate just right, so the outside gets that shiny finish when it cools.

Not a gift as much as sheer repetition. Jo took the hair tie from her wrist to secure her hair in a ponytail. She slipped her hands into plastic gloves. Did you try a sand truffle? She placed dark chocolate truffles alternating with tan ones on the tiers.

You mean your newest creation? No, I haven’t tried one yet. I did eat two seafoam candies already. They’re my current obsession. My jeans won’t fit if I eat another one.

Your pants will be fine. Jo bit into the golden orb covered in tawny crumbs. She held out the rest to Ann. You have to taste it.

Ann opened her mouth to accept the bite. Oh wow, she said through the nibble of candy, That is pretty amazing. What the heck is in it?

It’s a pecan flavored cheesecake ganache with caramel infused white chocolate outside that’s rolled in crushed toffee, so it looks like sand.

Where do you come up with these concoctions?

Jo shrugged. I just follow the recipes in the family cookbook.

And put your own spin on it. Ann crossed her eyes.

Okay, I do put my own twist on things.

There, was that so hard to admit?

Jo picked up two of the full silver trays. What time is it?

We have ten minutes. Ann grabbed two trays. Mindy said that the empty table beside the cake table is for the candy.

Let’s go.

They walked into the lounge area of The Tides, Logan Asher’s oceanfront hotel. The open lobby was decorated with the beautiful nautical and New England autumn colors Maris had picked for her wedding and reception.

Jo found her friend Emily Frost, the person responsible for the centerpieces. The flowers are gorgeous.

Thanks. They were Maris’ idea. I just did what she said.

Don’t sell yourself short, Em. Maris gave you general ideas. You made them real. I just love the driftwood decorated with the red and purple mums. It’s just so danged New England coast. For a lady who’s only been here six months, you sure captured the essence of Pirate’s Nest. And the seashells scattered around the driftwood is totally fun. Jo looked at her watch. It’s almost time. We better get to the beach before we miss the bride walking down the aisle.

They walked out of the lobby and down the steps onto the soft sand. The day was mild for October with just a bit of southern breeze to counter the bright sun. The waves made a calming rhythmic shush. Emily led them down the central aisle then into the third row. She sat in one of the white folding chairs followed by Jo then Ann.

The bride and groom sure lucked out, Ann said. Outdoor weddings are always a gamble. October on a New England coast can bring a hurricane, snow, rain or a day like today.

I believe they had a plan B, Em said. If the weather tanked, everything was going to be in the hotel lobby where they have the reception set up.

Ann looked all around.

What are you looking for? Jo asked.

Not what, who. Ann settled back in her chair. I’m looking for that yummy Dr. Flynn.

I’m sure he’s invited, Jo said.

He’s here, Em said. The last time I saw him he was hanging out with Jake and Logan. They were keeping Logan from losing his lunch. The guy is as nervous as a teenage girl at prom.

Jo tilted her head. I hear the bachelor party was quite the celebration, so maybe they are all easing their hangovers.

Or that, Em laughed.

Hung-over or not, that trio makes for quite delicious eye-candy, Ann said. She tossed her hair over her shoulder, and the wind caught the tress.

Jo watched Ann’s chestnut curls dance around her shoulders. She had their mom’s shiny, glorious mane. Jo had Dad’s pencil-straight, brown hair.

Logan walked up the aisle with Jake close behind.

Em leaned toward Jo and whispered, Logan looks good but Jake…oh my.

Gee, since you first laid eyes on Jake Kincaid, I didn’t think you noticed any other males, Jo said through a laugh.

Someone squeezed Jo’s shoulder. Hello ladies, Nate Flynn said, as he settled in a chair behind them.

Ann twisted in her chair to Nate. There you are. I was beginning to think you stood me up?

Stood you up? he said.

I plan on dancing the evening away with you.

Uh, I don’t dance very well. Nate slid back in his chair.

Ann patted the empty chair next to her. You should come up here so that we can sit together. I don’t bite, you know?

The ceremony is starting, Nate replied.

Logan’s daughter, Celia, a freshman in college, walked arm in arm with her grandmother, Virginia. They took their time in the soft sand, laughing as the shifting sand made their promenade more of a drunken stagger.

Em laughed. Those two look like they’re having fun.

Virginia always looks like she’s having fun, Jo added.

Nate leaned close to them. She makes it a point to have fun. That’s how she stays young.

Is that your professional analysis, doctor? Jo asked.

Yup. Nate grinned. A prescription I recommend for every one of my patients.

Em looked back down the aisle. Here comes Maris.

The guests stood.

Oh, my word, Em said, she is stunning.

She really is, Jo agreed.

Ann tilted her head. Her dress is okay.

Jo furrowed her brows. Her dress is gorgeous. It fits like a glove. The neckline is perfect for that necklace and makes her girls look magnificent.

They watched in silence as Maris and Grace, her daughter from her first marriage, walked up the aisle. Maris reached Logan. They held each other’s gaze as if they were the only two people on Earth.

Jo sighed. Those two have it bad. At that moment, Jake found Em in the crowd. He gave her a warm smile and a wink. Not to mention those two.

Everyone sat down when the minister directed. We are gathered here…

Jo watched Logan take Maris’ hands. Their expressions as they looked into each other’s eyes would thaw the coldest heart. She knew Logan’s story of love found then betrayal, of being alone, a single dad raising Celia from infancy and his gutsy decision to give love another try. She only knew a bit of Maris’ story, but she too took a second chance at love. Today was the result of taking those chances. Bravo.

The ceremony was short, ending with a passionate kiss. The guests cheered and clapped as the newlyweds made their way back down the aisle, heading to The Tides.

Nate stopped at the end of his row. He gestured for the three ladies to proceed him.

Ann grabbed his arm. These shoes in the sand make it hard to walk. Be my knight in shining armor? She tugged on Nate’s arm.

Jo heard Em sigh behind her.

Jake was stopped at the end of their row, waiting for Emily. He held up his elbows. I have two arms, ladies.

Oh no, Jo said, I have sensible shoes. You escort your lady.

Jo joined the parade of guests walking from the beach to the lobby area, chastising herself with every step. Sensible shoes? What is wrong with you? Even Gran doesn’t announce wearing sensible shoes.

Jo walked into the lobby and surveyed the large open room. Everything was so Maris and Logan. Beach casual with a hint of nautical elegance had transformed the lobby of The Tides into an elegant reception hall. The colors were light gray and sand beige with a hint of navy. The driftwood centerpieces, the navy tablecloths with white place settings and beige napkins and the ocean outside the windows, it was a marvelous picture. She smiled. Even the trays of candy fit right in.

Music filtered in from the hotel’s sound system, servers walked around with trays of hors d'oeuvres, others offered flutes of champagne. A full bar was set up in the far corner of the lobby.

This is quite the celebration.

Jo turned to the voice. Hi, Virginia.

Sweet Jo.

Jo loved that Logan’s mother always called her that. When she was a little girl working for Gran in the candy store, Virginia would come in for her weekly saltwater taffy supply. Virginia always complimented Jo on how good she was with the customers, so pleasant and friendly. In her pretend British accent, Virginia would say, You are a sweet Jo, just like the sweets. The nickname stuck.

I never thought I’d witness the day when my boy would marry again. I’m glad he found Maris. He was alone for too long.

They are perfect together.

They really are. And Maris is all anyone could ask for in a daughter-in-law. Virginia looked over to see Jake towering over Emily, his hand caressing her arm, a goofy grin on his face and Emily looking up at him with the same smitten look. Now it seems our Jake has found love.

Jo looked in the direction of Jake and Emily. From what I’ve seen, they are perfect together too.

They are brilliant together. Perhaps love is in the air, for you too, Sweet Jo. With our favorite doctor?

Jo watched Ann flirting with Nate. I’m sure that’s not true. She watched her sister stroking her hand down Nate’s chest.

Virginia followed Jo’s gaze to Ann. Are you daft?

Jo frowned. What?

Nate and Ann?

Well yeah, she told me she has her eye on him, and she’s going after him with everything she’s got.

Virginia cackled then harrumphed. Youth really is wasted on the young.

Logan pressed his wife’s body to his own. I know we didn't really think that there would be a lot of dancing, but everyone seems to be ready to prove us wrong. He stepped with her to the left. Let’s dance, wife. He huffed. Lord, I love the sound of that.

I love hearing it.

Celia drifted up to them. Aren’t you glad I compiled a playlist to stream over the stereo?

Logan glimpsed at Celia then back to Maris. I won’t even pretend to know what that means.

You are so old, Celia said, drifting away.

I married an old man? Maris sighed. That’s unfortunate.

Hey, smarty-pants, do you know what a playlist is?

Yes, but I’m not as old as you.

Logan buried a kiss on the side of Maris' neck. Old? We’ll see if you say that tonight.

I’m sure I won’t be. She kissed his lips.

I love you, Mrs. Asher.

Maris melted against him. Say that again. I love hearing you say that.

I love you.

And the other part?

Mrs. Asher.

Celia’s boyfriend, J.J., caught Celia’s hand and they started moving to the music. Did I tell you how hot you look in that dress?

A few times and you are a terrible liar. This is such a bridesmaids dress. She twisted her mouth to the side. I’m starting my collection.

Until you get your own wedding dress?

I’m going to totally ignore that. You don’t look too shabby yourself, college boy.

I’m a good lookin’ guy.

And humble, reserved, self-effacing.

He pulled her close to him. Questionable fashion aside, I want you.

You have me.

He pressed her closer to whisper in her ear, No, I want to rip that dress off of you with my teeth, then I want to play with you until you scream.

Celia felt her cheeks get hot. I don’t scream.

Babe, you’re a screamer. Just ask the neighbors.

Celia punched his arm.

I am not complaining. In fact, it’s pretty dammed hot.

You know you’re not exactly quiet.

Never claimed to be. He nuzzled her neck. I know your dad is a little distracted today, but I’m sure your dad has given Jake his marching orders to watch us, so we need a plan, cuz I sure as hell can’t wait to get back to school to make you scream.

Celia felt the incredible reaction deep inside her belly. The response that J.J. caused just by a few words or a glance. An ache deep down, a surge that brought exhilaration then pleasure. We’ll wait until everyone is asleep and Jake has made his rounds then we’ll find a nice hidden place.

In the dunes, maybe? Down by Granny Crank’s lunch wagon.

Celia giggled. It’s going to be cold.

So, bring a sleeping bag.

What time?

Midnight.

Celia licked J.J.’s ear. All this covert planning has me horny.

That dress has me horny.

Yeah, right. She licked his ear again.

Come on, midnight.

Yup.

Jo peeled the silver paper off the cupcake then bit into the dense, almond-flavored pound cake. She closed her eyes, exhaling a moan of bliss.

Yeah, I did the same thing.

Nate’s voice coming from over her shoulder startled her. She spun on her heel, scraping a crumb into her mouth to hide her shock.

Seriously. Same reaction. He inhaled a deep breath. As the town doc, I’m supposed to advise my patients to limit sweets. He grinned like a kid caught with his hand in the candy jar. I’ve already had two.

Nate Flynn was eye candy, no other way to put it. Tall, with a body sculpted to perfection, strawberry blond hair, chiseled chin, strong-jawed, green eyes, the man was an Irish cowboy, if there was such a thing.

Why Dr. Flynn, that does not sound like medical advice.

Everything in moderation, including moderation. Benjamin Franklin. And could you call me Nate? We’re not exactly strangers.

Jo smiled. All right, Nate. She twisted her mouth to one side. How often?

I’m sorry?

How often can we throw moderation out the window?

He shrugged. Once a week. Maybe twice. Special occasions.

Jo raised her brows. We have a problem.

He scowled.

If my customers practice your kind of moderation, I’ll be out of business in a month.

He looked puzzled. That is a problem.

There you are. Ann sashayed up to them. She flashed a smile then laced her arm with Nate’s. I go comb my hair, and you disappear.

He looked at Ann. You found me, so I obviously didn’t disappear.

Slow music started.

You promised me a dance, Ann said to Nate, tugging on his arm.

I didn—

Well, you were going to, Ann said, dragging him into the center of the room.

Jo watched them move a little back and forth. Ann was flashing her best smile as she occasionally batted her eyes. She seemed determined to get her hips as close to Nate’s body as she could. He looked just as determined to keep space between them.

Jo finished her cupcake then walked out onto the porch for a bit of air. She looked out at the ocean before turning to lean against the railing. She was glad that she had grabbed a thick cardigan to put over her shoulders.

Love is in the air.

Jo was shocked by an elderly lady dressed in vintage clothes, not wearing a coat or hat standing in a darkened corner of the porch. Hello.

The woman nodded. It’s a lovely party.

Very. Are you out here spying?

Not everyone in the room has good intentions.

Jo was aware the woman didn’t answer her question. I don’t understand what you mean.

Some only want something because they know they can’t have it. Because it belongs to another.

Jo didn’t recognize the wizened face that must have been beautiful in her youth. Are you a member of Maris’ family?

Some people let jealousy rule their hearts…control their ways.

Jo peered into the room to see Nate step back from Ann then head in the direction of the men’s room. When she turned back to the woman, she was gone. Jo looked around. That was weird.

She walked back inside to Ann. Where is your dance partner?

He’s in the bathroom. Ann hugged herself. He is a hunk, isn’t he?

Dr. Flynn is very handsome.

I want that.

He’s not a that, Annie. He’s a who.

Whatever. Ann flipped her hand. He is the best-looking guy at this party, that’s for sure. I call dibs.