‘Best captain ever.’
‘I think he’d like that. Do you want me to ask Luna to make one? It could be a surprise.’
Jax sat up, crossing his legs. ‘Yeah, let’s give it to him at the festival.’ His shoulders slumped. ‘That’s if Ryan’s mum hasn’t closed that down as well.’
‘She hasn’t. Debra has been working with Councillor Seabridge to make sure the day runs smoothly.’
‘I hope Ryan’s told his mum the truth.’
‘What truth?’
‘That he doesn’t want to swim.’
Beth bobbed her head. ‘He must really hate the water.’
‘No. Just having to race. But he did tell Leo and me that he wasn’t going in the water ever again.’ Jax frowned. ‘Is that Ryan’s trauma?’
‘Could be. Perhaps one day he’ll swim for fun again.’
Spencer’s van pulled up, and Beth and Jax stood immediately. Spencer jumped out and pointed at the bike. ‘Jax, seriously!’
Beth quickly explained, leaving Spencer quite dumbfounded. ‘So you see, he just wanted to prove to Annette that the centre does help people.’
‘I would have come with you,’ Spencer told Jax.
‘I wasn’t thinking. I just went.’
‘At least you’re safe. Jeez, Jax, you scared everyone.’
Jax dipped his head. ‘I know that now, and I’m sorry.’
‘Never mind,’ said Spencer, but Beth could see he clearly did mind. ‘You just promise not to run off again.’
‘But Ryan’s mum—’
‘It’s sorted,’ said Spencer. ‘The centre isn’t closing, and Ryan told his mum he doesn’t want to race.’
‘About time,’ Jax huffed, placing his empty crisp packet in the mesh bin.
‘Oh, and about that,’ said Spencer, gesturing at the dustbin. He raised his palm, asking the boy to give him a high five, which Jax happily did. ‘Well done, mate. You must feel so proud of yourself. I’m definitely proud of you.’
Jax shrugged, but his grin was on show. ‘It’s just a step forward,’ he said simply.
‘It certainly is,’ said Beth, nudging his arm.
Jax rolled back his shoulders and raised his chin. ‘It’s just what we Sunshine Superheroes do. Take one step at a time. Right, Miss Horton.’
Beth smiled at Spencer. ‘That’s right.’
Spencer quirked an eyebrow at her. ‘Oh, so you’re one of us now, are you?’ He glanced at the box she hugged. ‘You and your cereal?’
‘Yes,’ said Jax. ‘And Miss Horton needs her own badge.’
Spencer breathed out a quiet laugh. ‘Is that right? And what for exactly?’
Jax grinned at Beth. ‘Finding lost children.’
Beth pointed at the bike. ‘I didn’t find you, you just rode out in front of me.’
