However, it was over ninety degrees today, and she hated that Ruth had to work the drink hut. But Henry was always late arriving the first week of the season, and the budget was too tight for extra help beyond him and Talley. As tempted as she was to say a few words to Henry about his tardiness, she understood it was better that he arrived late and was in a good frame of mind.

Edna retreated to the kitchen and made two glasses of iced water that she carried out to Ruth. Perspiration dampened the girl’s head, and her cheeks were flushed. Edna gave a glass of water to Ruth and set the other on the bar. Sodas were tasty, but they really didn’t quench thirst. “Where’s Talley?”

“Bathroom,” she said between gulps.

“Why don’t you go inside and finish the lunch setup? It’s cooler inside.”

“I don’t mind being here,” she said.

“It’s hot, and most of these folks are all headed inside anyway in a few minutes.”

Ruth glanced back toward the cottage where Carlotta was staying. “I haven’t seen her today. It’s nearly lunch. Do you think she’s not feeling well?”

“I’m sure she slept in. Yesterday was a long day for her.”

“Is she going to sing again tonight?”

“She’ll perform every night,” she said.

Ruth drained the glass. “What do you think she does during the day?”

“Sleeps. Sits on her deck.” Edna’s life had been in constant motion for so long she couldn’t imagine, even feared, stillness.

“Being a singer seems like a good job to me.”

“I think it’s harder than it looks. She makes it appear easy.”

“After lunch can I go visit her? She might be hungry or want a sandwich. And I said I’d show her my sketches.”

She wasn’t surprised that Ruth was fascinated by Carlotta. The singer was exciting and beautiful. “Make her a plate at the end of the lunch service. Take an hour or so to visit. But don’t pester her with all your pictures. Show her the best ones.”

“Really?”

Edna could think of a half dozen jobs Ruth could be doing this afternoon, but she was still a girl, and she wanted her daughter to have as much of a childhood as she could. Adulthood came fast. She brushed back Ruth’s dark bangs dampened by sweat. “You’ve earned it.”

“Thanks, Mama.”

A northeastern wind cooled her skin, but as she glanced out at the clear sky, she sensed the sunshine was short lived. She’d bet money they’d get a storm tonight. “Now get yourself inside and see what Daddy needs. He’ll be ringing the lunch bell soon.”

“Oh, and I’ve been keeping track of Mrs. Manchester’s drinks. She’s had four so far.”

“If she orders more, I’ll water them down a bit.”

“Okay, Mama.”

“Thanks, honey.”