Anita walks out of the kitchen and back to the front of the store, talking the whole time in that southern, slow, rambling way. I can’t help but think of how my first day in Ocean Beach is way different from my first day a year before. That was the day I met Anita, Justin, and was exposed to this world.
Now, like the guys said at the bonfire…I’m part of the world. Just a townie like everyone else.
28
Summer
The phone ringsnot long after Bobby picks up Anita for a doctor appointment. Storytelling was over about an hour ago, but I still feel like I’m recovering from the group of small children running around the store. Anita was right, though, the parents spent money, and other than having to straighten the store after they left, I think it was a success.
“Ocean Beach Books,” I say into the receiver.
“Summer!”
“Hey, Mom,” I reshelf a row of books that an exuberant three-year-old pulled off the shelf. “How’s Oregon?”
“Cold,” she says. “I miss my spring weather. How’s the beach? The store?”
“The beach is good, warm, and not too crowded yet. The store is amazing. You did a great job.”
“Oh, it was hardly just me. Richard and Sugar were a huge help with location ideas. Once I brought Anita on as an employee, she really brought in a lot of great ideas.”
“Like Toddler Tuesday?”
“Did that start today?”
“Yep.” I bend down and sweep up a pile of graham crackers into my hand.
“How did it go?”
“Well, it felt like a tornado came through here, but I think overall it went well. Lots of kids and happy moms.”
“Great. I’m telling you, she thinks of everything. She’s been a life-saver.”
The store is currently empty and I move to sit on one of the soft, red couches. “Tell me about your trip.”
“It’s been a whirlwind, too. One night in each city. I know I’ve done this before, but I was younger then. It’s wearing me out.”
“Don’t get sick,” I say, knowing she will. She always does on book tours. “Make sure you sleep and eat healthy. You can’t just eat French fries and candy.”
My mother is a French fry and candy junkie.
“Richard’s here and he’s keeping me in line.”
“Good.”
“How are Justin and the other boys?”
“I saw them last night. Everyone seems great—relieved summer vacation is here.”
“Listen, I wanted to talk to you about something.” Her voice lowers.
“Okay sure, what’s up?”
“I know you’re seeing Justin…and well, maybe not just him. I’m not sure what’s going on with all that, but I trust you to make the right decision. I also want to be able to trust you to be safe.”
“Safe…” Oh, my god.
The sex talk? Now? On the phone?
