His mom put her hands on his dad’s shoulders, like maybe her touch could put him in a better mood. To be fair, from what he remembered of his parents’ relationship, it usually could. “That’s very sweet of you, honey.”
A derisive noise left his dad’s lips. “Then what?”
Using his need for caffeine as an excuse not to snap at his dad or lose his patience, Levi took a long sip. It wasn’t a good time to tell them about the food truck. Not with his dad’s surly mood.
“Then I’ll figure out what I’m doing and start building my life here.”
Getting up a little slower than Levi liked to see, his dad took his coffee cup to the sink. “You need money? That why you’re asking for a job?”
Jesus. Levi huffed out a breath. “I don’t need your money, Dad. I was head chef at one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Vermont.” He’d cooked for senators and dignitaries and under chefs who’d received James Beard Awards. His career had been, quite literally, a dream come true. But it hadn’t filled his soul the way he thought it would. “I have money. I’m offering to help. You can think about it, but I don’t know why you’d have to.” Other than stubborn pride, which Levi knew a thing or two about.
Before his dad could answer, Levi pushed back from the table and took his own cup to the sink. He’d grab a coffee in town. This houseboat was too fucking small, especially with his dad’s shitty mood.
“Let me know.” With that, he scooped up his phone and his keys, gave his mom a kiss on the cheek, and took off.
He hadn’t finished tying his shoes on the front step before his phone buzzed.
Beckett
Happy you’re back, man. Come meet my girl, see my bike shop.
Levi
Will do. Need to get settled then I want to make a big meal for all of you. Not at my parents’ though. Too small in too many ways.
Beckett
Let’s do it at the lodge. Lots of room and we’re not booked until June 1.
Levi
Perfect. Next week. You and Gray are running your own businesses. Maybe I can talk to you about my plans. Look at us, growing up. And you’re getting married. If you ever get up the nerve to ask her.
Beckett
You saw the poll.
Levi
And voted.
Beckett
Jackass.
Levi
Can’t wait to meet her. I’ll try to talk some sense into her; warn her off.
Beckett
I repeat: jackass.
Levi
Admit it. You missed me.
Beckett
