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I put a hand over my heart. “Ouch.”
“It’s true. You don’t even know they love to help sailors.”
I laugh. “All right, you win, but only if June is sure she wants to help us.”
“I promise I’d love to watch Lily tonight. And I’ll make sure her bedtime story is mermaid-themed.”
Lily practically bounces off her seat with excitement, already talking June’s head off with everything mermaid-related. I mouth a silentthank youto June.
Tonight may have started on a rocky note, but things are turning around. With Lily safe and sound at home, I can focus on running the bar, knowing she’s in good hands.
And later, when I get home, June will be there.
Chapter Four
June
After tucking Lily into bed and reading her two bedtime stories, I tiptoe back to Benson’s living room. Am I crazy for being here? I didn’t want to impose, but I meant what I said; I don’t mind looking after Lily. I didn’t have any plans tonight anyway. And yes, seeing Benson again when he gets home is an added plus.
I’m glad I decided to drop by The Grizzly Grove today. After my meeting with him at the school, I tried running into him in town but never did.
For the past week, he’s all I’ve been able to think about. I just had to see him, or I would’ve driven myself crazy.
I settle down on the couch with a cup of tea and let my gaze wander the space. Benson might be one of those rugged mountain man types, but he still managed to turn his house into a cozy home with lots of color.
The walls are all white, except for some accented ones that he painted yellow and mint green. One of the living room walls is filled with pictures of him and Lily and some other people I don’t recognize. His sister, maybe? Plush pillows add an extra layer of comfort to the couch, and the fridge is adorned with Lily’s drawings.
You can tell there’s love in this house. A pang of sadness hits me as I think of my apartment. It’s so quiet and empty. I always turn the television on at home so voices fill the air and I feel less alone.
I switch the television on and watch some reruns of Grey’s Anatomy. After a few episodes, my eyes grow heavy, but I feel weird falling asleep here while Benson is still out, so I try to stay awake.
It’s just after midnight when I hear the front door unlock. I blink. I must’ve fallen asleep after all.
I turn the TV off right as Benson walks in.
“I’m going to check up on Lily first,” he says, tiptoeing to her bedroom.
Could he melt my heart any more? He’s such a great father.
A couple of minutes later, he returns. “She’s fast asleep. Thanks again. Was she good?”
“Lily’s a dream. Enthusiastic and sweet. I can tell she’s being raised well,” I say with a wink.
Benson grins at my words. He plops on the couch next to me, my feet almost touching his knees.
“How was your night?” I ask.
“Good, but I closed up earlier than usual, considering the circumstances.”
“How’s your sister doing?”
“Okay, I hope. I haven’t heard from them since they were on their way to the hospital earlier today.”
I smile. “I’m sure she’s okay. I bet you can’t wait for Lily to have another cousin.”
“It will be great, that’s for sure.” He ruffles a hand through his hair. It’s thick and wavy, reminding me of Doctor Shepard from the Grey’s Anatomy episode I just watched.
“Where did you park your car?” Benson asks.
