Chapter 81

Everyone watched Steve as he conversed on the phone. Then he grimly nodded his head as he agreed to something and turned the phone off. He then looked toward those seated by the pool and made a slight movement with his head. Chip jumped to his feet immediately and walked quickly over to his friend.

“Look at those two guys!” marveled Kate as the two friends stood close together, having a private conversation. “They’re all tanned and tough looking and really serious about something. I have a bad feeling that this may be some SEAL business or something equally tough.”

Suddenly the conversation ended and the men returned to the group. Steve reached down for Gwen’s hand as he ignored the obvious question that was on everyone’s mind. Chip took Kate’s hand and led her toward a quiet area off to the side. Once Steve had guided Gwen far enough away that the others couldn’t hear, he spoke quietly and calmly.

Everyone could tell that something had happened. The entire mood ha