She walked into the living room, saw the glint of sunlight on the ocean through the expanse of glass and gave a sigh of pleasure because the new building was every bit as spectacular as she’d known it would be. The room curved a full one hundred and eighty degrees, and floor-to-ceiling windows ensured a ringside seat for sunrise and sunset. Huge sliding doors opened onto the terrace and the garden and there, right in front of her, was the path that led to the beach. It was far enough away to protect the house from the lick and surge of the tide, but close enough to make you feel as if you could reach out and touch it.

The crescent beach at Otter’s Nest was protected on both sides by the curve of the land and rocks.

She’d be able to sit there without being seen. She’d be able to swim in the sea. Watch whales and dolphins. And yes, there would definitely be memories there. Her father. Nate.

“Joanna?” Ashley’s voice came from the doorway. “I didn’t know where you were, so—”

“I didn’t want to wake you.” Enough of the past. She had the present to think about. “We should go straight to bed and get some proper sleep. We can talk in the morning.”

“But it’s morning now. The sun is coming up.”

Joanna had been driving for half the night. She was emotionally and physically exhausted. She needed to close a door between her and Ashley, this problem she’d chosen to bring home with her. She needed space.

“I’ll show you to your room. The bathroom should be stocked with everything you need. I hope you’ll be comfortable.”

Even though she’d never stayed here she knew the house, and she led Ashley up the curved staircase to the guest suite.

“This place is like a five-star hotel,” Ashley muttered as she followed her into the bedroom.

Joanna pressed a button next to the bed and closed the blinds and flicked on the bedside light. “The bathroom is through that door, and my bedroom is across the hallway.”

“Sure. Thanks.” Ashley hesitated. “You seem really stressed. Are you okay?”

The fact that she’d noticed told Joanna that she was losing her usually firm grip on control. “I’m fine. I hope you sleep well. Call me if you need anything.”

“Joanna—”

“I’m fine.” Joanna backed away. “Get some rest. There will be plenty of time to talk.” She urged the girl into the room and closed the door quietly.