“What do you think about the singer?” Kate Bernard drew out the words in her Georgia drawl. “She’s certainly very attractive. And her voice is quite good.”

Closing her eyes, Ann took a drag of her cigarette as she imagined the singer’s bold green eyes and wide, expressive smile. The woman lived outside the bounds of decent society, and Ann couldn’t decide if she was envious or resentful of her daring choices.

Ann had seen Carlotta perform years ago, shortly after she and Peter had been married. He was enthralled, talked about her endlessly after the show, and she’d assumed he’d simply enjoyed the performance. She was nervous and on edge, fearing Carlotta would recognize her and she would have to admit to a time she no longer acknowledged. Turned out Peter had barely noticed Ann’s mood that night.

“As long as she keeps her act on the stage, then I suppose she’s fine,” Ann said, more to herself.

Kate looked at Maggie Osborn, and they both raised their brows. Neither dared to laugh or comment. Peter Manchester’s wandering eye was no secret. “How do you think Edna was able to get her? The Seaside Resort is lovely, but it’s hardly the kind of place performers flock to.”

“Edna is very clever,” Maggie said. “Financing a pool and redecorating the main building was no easy feat after the war.”

Edna was no shrinking violet. Behind her smiles was an inflexible steel similar to Ann’s that had gotten them both this far in life. Still, Ann also wondered how she’d enticed Carlotta here now of all times.

“I hope she sings ‘Blue Moon,’” Kate said.

“Ask her,” Maggie said.

“Is her showboat really in for repairs?” Ann asked. “Or did Edna spin that tale too?”

Maggie and Kate exchanged looks. “What other tales has Edna told?”

The gin was loosening her tongue. “Edna’s always selling something.” She rattled the melting ice in her glass, knowing she should shut up. “Carlotta could have gone to Norfolk or Raleigh. Bigger audiences.”

“Who cares,” Maggie said. “I’m glad she’s here. It adds interest in an otherwise mildly pleasant and predictable vacation.”

Maggie’s and Kate’s families came from lumber and big farming money. They had toured Europe before the war and often traveled to New York. This getaway wasn’t remarkable for Maggie or Kate, but they all agreed it kept the children entertained.

Ann’s marriage to Peter had placed her in their social circle, but she’d spent every day wondering if she measured up. She’d first proposed this getaway during the war, and they’d all had such a hunger for fun that they’d decided to make it an annual event. The husbands had begun traveling with their families after the war.