“Summer break.”
“Oh, duh.” I shake my head because, clearly, I should have realized that, given that it’s June and most universities let out in May. “Wait, why are you housesitting exactly?”
“Penn said he needed a few days on the water to clear his head. Beats me what that means. He’s always been a little dramatic, that one. Whatever, I’m just happy to get away from my mother for a bit. I love her, but damn...”
“As someone who is currently living with their parents, trust me, I get it,” I say, attempting to hide my disappointment that Penn isn’t here. “Do you know when Penn will be back?”
“No idea.”
“How long has he been gone?”
“Left two days ago. I can give him a message for you when he gets back. He didn’t take his cell with him. You can’t get much reception out there anyway. Otherwise, I’d say to text him.”
“He didn’t take his phone?” In this day and age, that seems absurd to me. “What if there’s an emergency?”
“Every boat has a radio. He can call for help if he needs it.”
Duh, I have to resist the urge to say.
“Right.” I rock back on my heels. “Well, I won’t keep you.” I gesture to the weed eater he’s still holding.
“Hey, London,” he calls just as I start to turn.
“Yeah?” I look back at him.
“Whatever is going on with you two, I really hope you work it out. He’s not nearly as big of a dick when you’re around.” He smiles, revealing a row of perfectly straight white teeth.
“Yeah, me too.” Is all I say before I head back to the car.
Walker throws me a wave as I back out of the driveway.
Fifteen minutes later, I park at the docks, looking out over the glistening water that almost seems to sparkle under the setting sun.
I know Walker said he’s out on the water, but that doesn’t mean I can’t talk to him. And I know just where to go to make that happen.
Making my way toward the ships, my heart rate spikes when I see The Independence is still docked. Quickening my steps, I hurry on board and scour the deck for a familiar face.
He sees me before I see him, a smile on his face as he heads my way.
“London?” Trav gives me a questioning look when he reaches me.
“Hey.”
“What are you—”
“I need to use the radio.”
“The radio?” He arches a brow.
“To call Penn.”
“Why do you need the radio to call Penn?”
“Because Walker said he was out on the water.”
“Left a couple of days ago,” he confirms.
“Can you reach him?”
