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For the rest of our tour, Tess doesn’t seem to recognize my downshift in mood. She bounces ahead, leading me through the dining hall and kitchen. We check out a couple of trailheads and the campfire circle. We even walk to the lake. And the entire time, while she’s wrapped up in her enthusiasm, I’m thinking of ways to get out of this bet.
I know if I try, Frank will cluck like a chicken, then lord it over me for the rest of my life. That’s not a new dynamic between us, but that fact only makes things worse. I can’t stand the idea of handing Frank yet another reason to call me a loser.
Solution? Hide from him forever.
Sure. That would be great, except for the part where I’ll still be leaving camp every weekend to work at the car wash with Frank.
And that’s when the lightbulb clicks on: If I can’t bring Tess to my brother, maybe I can bring my brother to camp.
I freeze in my tracks, and Tess stops too. We’re back in front of the main office where our cars are parked. “What?” she asks.
“I was just wondering… Do you have any events planned where the general public could visit camp? Like a friends and family thing.” I shift my weight. “Wouldn’t it be great if everyone could see all the good stuff you’ve got going here?”
“Hmm.” Tess furrows her brow. A sliver of guilt slips from my gut and pierces my heart. I hate not being fully honest about my intentions. And let’s face it. This isn’t even a little bit honest. But, the idea would benefit her too. Tess is convinced people don’t recognize her strengths—no thanks to me—so maybe this is the perfect opportunity for her to put her best efforts on display.
Okay, sure. Whatever helps you sleep at night, Spence.
These words flash across my brain, and I hear them in Tess’s voice. It’s like a bucket of water dumped over my head. She’s right. I meanI’m right. I’ve gotta get out of the bet. And I’ll just live with Frank shaming me for all eternity.
“You know what? Forget it.” I drop my arms, and my hopes right along with them. “This was a terrible idea. Never mind.”
But Tess is already nodding, her lips in a hum. “Nope. It’s not terrible. It’s agreatidea. In fact, this could be just the thing we need to ensure that camp gets to continue, no matter what. Mrs. Lockhart will jump at the chance to show off camp to the town.”
“I mean—”
“Spencer, you’re a genius!”
Tess lunges at me, wrapping her arms around my torso and squeezing. Hard. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” My arms hover around her, like the rings circling Jupiter. I’m afraid to actually touch her. Not when she’s this excited and vulnerable and grateful.
I can’t take advantage. I’m a man of honor, after all.
Whatever helps you sleep at night, Spencer.
