For Stan, the whine of jet engines engaging was always a thrill. Leaning back in his seat, he smiled like a little kid as the plane taxied down the runway at full speed. As he felt the wheels lift off the tarmac, he closed his eyes, picturing the woman he was flying to see. At … Continue reading Roller coaster of love

Vivian had to give Danela credit for at least turning over the “Closed” sign at her boutique. Entering the store through the front door, Vivian went first, sandwiching the frightened girl between her and Pauley. As Pauley took the younger girl by the arm, Vivian followed them into the back storeroom. Danela was sitting at … Continue reading Just the facts

Hurrying along the tourist crowded street, Danela kept her head down, but stopped occasionally to clandestinely look into shop windows, checking to see if the Sampas were following her. A quick glance at her watch told her the Sampas were arriving at Vivian’s empty shop, and she needed to get away without drawing attention to … Continue reading Without a prayer

Gathering the lunch plates, Pauley carried the remains of their meal into the kitchen. While they waited for Vivian to come back, she helped Lenore prepared caipirinhas. “I did not know Señora Vivian before she came to live here,” Lenore quartered limes picked from Vivian’s garden, muddling the fruit chunks in two glasses with a … Continue reading Pretty in pink

Vivian opened her door, stepping out onto the asphalt. Pauley shook her head, making no move to join Vivian outside. Holding up a well-shod foot, Pauley demanded an explanation. “Do you see what I’m wearing? You really expect me to walk hell knows how far in my Jimmy Choos? These are $400 Espadrilles!” “I know … Continue reading Walk a mile in my shoes