Laurel realized it was moments like this that reminded her Del and Parker weren’t rich. They were wealthy.

“I love the angles of it,” Laurel said. “You’ll be able to see the water—ocean or pond—from any room.”

“It’s partially on a preserve. Del and I wanted to be a part of that. Keeping it pristine, protecting it. He found it, and it’s just exactly right.”

“I can’t wait to see the rest.” Even as she spoke, Del stepped out on the front deck, and started down. And for that moment, she forgot the rest.

He looked so relaxed—khakis, tee, bare feet. The sunglasses couldn’t disguise the pleasure on his face.

She got out first, and he held out a hand for hers as he walked to her. “There you are,” he said and gave her an easy greeting kiss.

“Nice little beach shack.”

“I thought so.”

Parker stepped out, took a long look at the house, turned, took another at the water, the views. Nodded. “Good job.”

He lifted his arm, so she went over to slide under it, and for a moment the three of them stood, the breeze wafting and the house spread out before them.

“I think it’ll do,” Del decided.

The others arrived, and with them noise, movement, choruses of approval and curiosity as they started unloading the cars and hauling luggage and supplies.

The impressions came fast—sun and space, glossy wood, soft colors. Out of every window stretched water and sand, solitude and sanctuary, the offer of a spot to sit or a path to wander.

High ceilings and the easy, open flow from one room to the next added an appealing touch of the casual to the simple elegance of furnishings. A place, Laurel thought, you’d be comfortable with your feet up, or sipping champagne in formal wear.

The Browns, she admitted, simply had a way.

The kitchen brought her an instant surge of pleasure with its acres of straw-colored counters. The textured glass cabinet doors showcased cheerful Fiestaware in a celebration of mixed colors and the sparkle of stemware. Opening the pot drawers she hummed her approval of the selection of pots and pans. Surrounding the sinks, the tall, bowing windows opened the room to the beach and the crash of waves.

Even as she took stock she heard Jack let out a crow. “Pinball!”

Which meant there was likely a game room somewhere, but at the moment, she was more interested in the kitchen, the airy dining area, the proximity to the deck for outdoor eating.

Del passed her an icy margarita. “As promised.”

“Oh boy.” She took the first frosty sip. “It’s officially vacation.”

“I staked out a bedroom. Do you want to see it?”

“Absolutely. Del, this place is ... a lot more than I had in my head.”

“In a good way?”

“In an ‘I’m stupefied’ way.”