Chaos at Coconuts Read online

  “Earth to Alex,” Tony said.

  “Sorry. I’m here. How about a movie at my house?”

  “I’m on my way,” he said.

  She giggled. “I’m still at work. I’ll leave now.”

  ~ ~ ~

  Alex pulled up to her house, ran inside, and brushed her teeth. She lit new mango-scented candles and searched the movie guide on television. When her door opened, she jumped.

  “Shit, Tony.”

  “Did I startle you?”

  Her heart slowed to 50 M.P.H. “I forgot I gave you a key.” She scratched her head. “Did I give you a key? Some days I think I’m losing it.”

  Tony’s icy arctic eyes met hers. “You gave me a key. Come here.” He crossed the room in three steps and wrapped his arm around her narrow waist. “I’ve missed you.” He pulled her so close she almost lost her footing as his lips smothered hers.

  Alex melted into Tony. He was the most irresistible man she had ever met. So damn sexy, tall, and handsome. And that police uniform. Maybe Suzy’s right. I do like men in uniforms. She returned his kiss and tried to relax.

  Tony rubbed her shoulders. “You’re tense.”

  She shrugged. “Work.”

  “Busy day?”

  “Always. I can handle my demanding workload but the president decided his daughter would work for me—or with me. I’m not quite sure. I think she has her sights set on my job.”

  Tony frowned. “Isn’t that nepotism?”

  “How can I say that to my boss? Besides, she’s not getting paid. She’s earning college credit for her graduate marketing class.”

  “It sounds like you should be honored he trusts you to teach his daughter the ropes. Take it as a compliment.”

  “I suppose.” Alex kissed Tony again. “I don’t want to talk about work. What movie do you want to watch?”

  “The Alex and Tony show.”

  She grinned. “Again? Sure. I never tire of that one.”

  Chapter 34

  After kissing Ken goodbye, Suzy noticed several tree limbs scattered across the backyard. Thrilled that was their only tornado damage, she spent thirty minutes gathering several loads and put them in a huge pile beside the house. At least they could be used as firewood that fall.

  When she came inside, she made another pot of coffee and took a container of pomegranate mango yogurt out of the fridge. The second she sat down at the table to eat, Jon called.

  “Hi, hon. What’s up?”

  Jon’s voice turned up a notch. “Our wedding’s back on.”

  “Thank God. What happened?”

  Jon let out a loud breath. “Fernando finally stood up to his domineering mother. We’re going to have a beach wedding after all. I’m beside myself with joy.”

  “Oh, honey. That’s wonderful. When should I secure a venue?”

  “As soon as you can arrange it. I don’t want his overbearing mother to have second thoughts. I hope she doesn’t stick herself into every part of our lives.” He sighed. “It’s probably a good thing she lives in Italy.”

  Suzy was glad Jon couldn’t see her eyebrows shoot up. “You’re grown men. You can handle her. Let me make some calls to resorts and see what dates are available. Do you still want a destination wedding in Florida?”

  “Yes. If that’s doable quickly.”

  Suzy reached for a legal pad to jot down some notes. “Just so you know there won’t be as many people at a destination wedding as there would have been here. I don’t even know whether Alex and Hope can get off work.”

  “We’re aware of that. It’s really a private ceremony for us—and you—and his family. I know that sounds mean. His family will soon be my family but I’m not used to such an arrogant woman. But—” Jon paused. “There is someone else I’d really like to attend . . . besides Dad, of course.”

  Suzy racked her brain as she scribbled down a few names. “Who?”

  “Vanessa.”

  Poising her pen in mid-air, Suzy asked, “Do you think that’s a good idea?”

  “She was my girlfriend throughout high school, Mom. I still care about her—not in that way—but you know what I mean.”

  Suzy sipped her coffee. “Sure. I understand. We always cherish our long-time relationships, especially from high school. Just look at Alex, Hope, and me. We’re a perfect example of that.” She paused. “But have you discussed having your high school girlfriend at your wedding with Fernando?”

  Jon reacted quickly. “Of course. He’s fine with it.”

  Suzy smiled into the phone. “You don’t have any idea how much that warms my heart. I always loved Vanessa. Want me to tell you a secret?”

  “What?” Jon asked.

  “Promise you won’t get mad?”

  “Mom.”

  “I still have the prom picture of you two hidden in my nightstand drawer. Remember Vanessa’s yellow sequined dress?”

  “Yes, I remember the dress—and the prom. It was, uh, eventful and a bit of a blur. Can we change the subject?”

  Suzy was never one to probe. “Do you want to contact Vanessa about the wedding or should I?”

  “I’ll send her the invitation once you lock in the venue and date. You aren’t working on any other weddings right now, are you?”

  “Unfortunately not but I’m getting several inquiries on my new Facebook page. I hope to book another wedding sooner than later. Don’t worry. Yours will take priority. I’m a pro, remember?”

  “That you are. You’re the best wedding planner and the best mom. I love you. Gotta run. Let me know what you find out, okay? The sooner the better before Fernando’s mom changes her mind.”

  “Got it. I’ll make some calls today. Love you too. Bye.”

  Suzy hung up the phone. Her heart raced. She had planned many weddings over the years but never one for a family member and especially her only son. It had to be perfect. Better than perfect.” She refilled her coffee and Googled beach wedding destinations.

  Chapter 35

  At Hilltop High the next morning, the bell rang, indicating a sense of normalcy. But simply peering out the windows at the barren lots where charming, older homes once stood indicated anything but life as usual. Hope trudged toward her office with a raging headache from the head trauma and took two more ibuprofen. She could deal with a headache. After all, she was thrilled she had another day. She powered on her computer but had difficulty concentrating and decided to walk the halls. Many students were tearful or shell shocked. Most hugged and seemed especially considerate.

  The teachers’ lounge wasn’t much better. Hope sidled up to get some nasty coffee as teachers milled about, much quieter than usual and obviously still dazed.

  Dr. Holmes approached the area and didn’t bother with morning greetings. “How many of you are available after school to help with cleanup?” Every hand shot up. “Good. Hope, I’d like for you and Willow to organize it. That is, if you’re up to it after your injury.”

  Hope bobbed her head. “Sure. I’m fine. Happy to help.”

  The principal smiled. “I’ll request student, teacher, and staff volunteers over the intercom.” She turned toward Hope and Willow. “I’d like for you to begin right after school.”

  Dr. Holmes stepped outside the door but returned. “I know it’ll be hard for the kids to concentrate today. The best thing you can do is reassure them. Have special activities if you want. Let them write about the disaster, talk about it, sit in groups—or whatever it takes to calm them.” She clapped her hands together. “Let’s do our best to get back into a routine. Thank you, faculty. I can always count on you.”

  Hope nodded in obvious agreement. “This could give some students who are stuck on their college essay applications some wonderful inspiration for their papers.”

 
; “Great minds.” Willow smiled. “I’m already thinking of art projects they can do with the repurposed material they find.”

  “I knew I could count on you two. I’ll also send a press release to the media announcing our effort and asking for community volunteers as well.” With that, the principal got a cup of coffee and left.

  Hope turned to Willow. “I’m glad she asked us to head this effort.” Her eyes welled with tears. “It’s my turn to give back.”

  Since she had a free hour, Hope decided to work in the teachers’ lounge for companionship. She and Willow worked silently at the huge, rectangular table. It was obvious everyone was attempting to follow Dr. Holmes’ advice of routine. Some faculty members had spread papers out to grade, typed quizzes on their laptops, or chatted. Hope sifted through a dozen of her students’ college applications while Willow viewed her art students’ sketches.

  Occasionally, Willow would proudly hold up a drawing to point out a unique detail a student had captured. Likewise, Hope would read touching essays written by some of her at-risk students who dreamed of breaking their family’s cycle of hardship and poverty. Hope’s eyes glistened. “I don’t know how any college could turn these kids down. I’d hate to be a college admissions representative. I’d want to admit them all.”

  “I know. We’ve got some great kids at this school.” Willow glanced at the clock as she gathered the artwork. “It’s almost time for class. See you after school.”

  ~ ~ ~

  When the last bell rang, over two hundred students congregated on Hilltop’s front lawn. Hope watched their faces as they observed the disastrous scene across the street. Some saw the devastation for the first time since they had been ushered to the safety of their homes after the tornado hit the previous day. Still grappling with the horrific disaster herself, Hope could only imagine how their young minds were processing the tragedy.

  Seeing homes ripped from their foundations, trees uprooted and furniture strewn about, the devastation sank in. Hope could tell by the aghast students’ faces they were nearly in shock. Normally, the kids were focused on homework, the opposite sex, the next dance, or sports. Now they were totally engrossed with the destroyed neighborhood.

  Hope peered from side to side. Destruction was everywhere. Many cars were toppled on their sides. Sturdy trees had fallen on top of several of the remaining houses and vehicles that withstood the twister. Some trees blocked entry to driveways. Furniture and appliances were scattered across the grass. Three of the houses across from the school were split into insignificant slabs of lumber, almost like the game of Pick-up Sticks.

  Police continued to patrol the area but the rescue vehicles were gone. Unbelievably, no one had died according to the local news. Still, homes were gone. People were injured. Pets were likely missing and the neighborhood was a chaotic mess.

  “Where should we start, Miss Truman?” a pimply faced boy asked.

  “That’s a very good question.” Hope scanned the area. “Let’s put like items in piles.” She spotted an empty lot next to an old stone church and pointed. “Put the lumber in that corner and shingles over there.” She pointed to a third area. “Tree limbs can be piled here.”

  Willow and Larry arrived with several large, clear plastic tubs. Willow cupped her mouth, “Kids, if you find any mementos—pictures, jewelry, stuffed animals, diplomas, awards, anything that looks special—put those items in these containers and close the lid.”

  “Those containers are a wonderful idea.” Hope beamed at Willow and the janitor and added, “Students, remember, keepsakes will mean everything to the owners. Take your time while sorting and be careful. Watch for nails. Some of our neighbors have lost their homes. Just let that sink in.” Her voice wobbled. “Let’s try to find even one memento for them. Don’t trash everything too quickly. Look for anything sacred. Things might look wet or crumpled but a high school yearbook, dolls, eyeglasses, even cookbooks that might have special recipes will mean the world to someone.” She motioned to the bins. “Place the collectibles in the clear tubs and we’ll eventually get them to their rightful owners. And thank you.”

  Hope picked up several pieces of lumber and added them to a growing pile. She wanted to hug all of the kids then and there and thank them for volunteering but knew she had to stay on task. As she made a third trip to the wood pile, she noticed Britney collecting shards of glass in a bulging, growing tote. “Why are you collecting broken glass?”

  Britney focused on the ground. “I have a plan, Miss Truman.”

  Hope shrugged and decided not to press. “Be careful or you’ll get cut.”

  Britney held up her gloved hands. “Got it covered. I bought these at the Dollar Store last night.”

  “Wish I had thought of that,” Hope said. “Keep sorting, kids. You’re making great progress.” A huge pile had already amassed of splintered lumber with nails sticking out. “Hopefully, someone can either repurpose the lumber or use it for firewood this winter. Remember, be careful about anything sharp. We don’t want to have to give out tetanus shots at school.”

  A lump formed in Hope’s throat when she discovered the Hilltop coaches had canceled baseball and track practice. The cheerleaders and drum corps were also there. Students who didn’t belong to any organization joined in and now they were all part of something good. One organization. Hope choked back tears as she watched the students work in harmony.

  With a long tree branch in her hand, she stopped to observe the scene. Kids were stooped over, sorting and gathering trash. For once, they were focused on the greater good and off their cell phones doing something constructive—in the fresh air, no less. The cliques were gone. The jocks, so-called nerds, social butterflies, and shy types worked side by side and shoulder to shoulder. She had never been more proud to work at Hilltop High. They didn’t teach this in college when I studied counseling. This is organic and beautiful. Humankind at its best. Hope wished the special moment weren’t due to a natural disaster but her heart swelled with pride at the teamwork.

  The students worked diligently. One of the Kilties said, “I found someone’s teeth.” The kids laughed but Hope was thrilled. “I’m sure the rightful owner will be very happy to get their dentures back. Let’s wrap those in tissue. I’ll put them in my purse so they don’t get broken.” Hope studied the intact false teeth. It’s amazing how massive trees and homes were obliterated, yet these dentures were spared.

  A track star held up a cracked frame containing a wedding photo and a cheerleader found a baby book. Everyone cheered. “See, what I mean. You can’t replace those items. Great job, everyone. Keep looking,” Hope said.

  A uniformed student combed through rubble and discovered a class ring and a military purple heart, which literally made Hope shiver. “How wonderful. Great job.” The Hilltop baseball player who unearthed the precious items held them in the air, obviously proud of his findings. Everyone stopped to applaud.

  Hope reached for the special items. “I’m going to my car to place those objects and the teeth in my purse right now. I’ll be right back.”

  As she walked away, she smiled when she heard Britney shout, “Keep looking, everyone.” For once the student was part of something bigger than her insignificant world with her neglectful mother. When Hope returned to the group, she already thought Britney stood a little taller as she worked alongside students who often ignored her.

  In addition to cleanup, students were obviously on a mission to find even more cherished mementos. They shouted and cheered each time they discovered a neighbor’s treasure. A football player found bronze baby shoes and several sheets of someone’s medical records.

  “Those papers need to be saved.” Willow pointed toward a cardboard box. “Put the papers in there for safekeeping.”

  Hope stared in delighted respect. The students had amazingly left their phones alone. Not one person stared at
a screen. Through the tragedy, Hope discovered a priceless moment of goodwill that she’d never forget. She couldn’t wait to tell Alex and Suzy.

  Chapter 36

  Britney squealed. “Look what I found.”

  Several of the cheerleaders ran toward her. “What?”

  “A puppy.” Britney crouched down to encourage the dog to come out from under a pile of debris. The chestnut puppy whimpered and trembled. Britney held out open fingers to encourage the pup to trust her.

  She got on her knees and leaned closer. “Come here, puppy. I won’t hurt you.” The reddish Pomeranian tucked its head between its paws. Only the dog’s dark eyes and front paws were visible. After she pulled limbs away until he was freed, the grateful puppy limped toward her. “He’s hurt.”

  One of the cheerleaders said, “My dad’s a vet. I’ll take him.”

  Britney twisted away from the cheerleader as she clung to the dog. “Thanks, but I know a vet. I’ll take him.”

  Hope overheard the interaction and highly doubted Britney knew a veterinarian but she let it go. The girl needed a purpose. Britney could nurse the puppy back to health and Hope would take it to a vet until they found the rightful owner.

  One of the baseball players looked from side to side as he searched. “Where is everyone? I mean, the homeowners?”

  “Maybe the hospital, hotels, or with family,” Hope said.

  Willow nodded. “That’s right. I checked the website for Ozarks5 earlier. A reporter gave a live report and said a few victims are being treated in local hospitals. Others are being housed at the Red Cross, and some are staying with friends or relatives. I’m sure they’re all devastated. You kids are doing something wonderful here. Don’t ever forget that.”