AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Jade’s not grouchy. She’s the nicest person I know.” Allen poured me a shot. “I’ve known her since grade school and she’s always been nice to everyone.”
“Then why’s she so grouchy to me?” I gulped the shot. “I’m nice.”
“You came into town and told the whole bar she pushed you into the water,” Allen smiled. “That might have something to do with it.”
Yeah, that may have something to do with it. She didn’t really push me.
“Thanks for telling.” I looked around at my crew drunk. “I’m not carrying these guys out of here much more drunk than this. Let’s go, boys.”
“Why, we leaving?” Asher slurred. “It’s not my bedtime yet.”
“Yes, it is. Marcus, get the guys, it’s time to go.” I paid the tab and grabbed Asher by the collar. “See you tomorrow night, Joe.”
We managed to make it back to the marina still on our feet. The dock was as dark and creepy as Allen said it would be.
I’m glad she gave me this flashlight, but how do I get them all on the boat uninjured?
“Hey boss, I’m not drunk. Why don’t I go get the boat running and bring back more flashlights?” Jim offered. “Better keep them standing or they’ll be sleeping right where they are.”
Two at a time, we got the crew out to the yacht. Jim hadn’t had as much to drink as the rest, but I still thought it safer to stay docked ‘til morning.
Six hours later, I woke to sunshine beating on my face. I’d fallen asleep out on the deck in a lounger.
“Josh, come out to the deck with a notepad, please.”I texted my house manager. “Marcus, do we have anything for breakfast?”
“We should, I keep this baby stocked,” Marcus answered from the lounger next to me. “Will we be here long?”
“There are a few things I need to take care of while we’re here. If you can, get me something simple to eat now, then you can feed the rest whenever they get up.” I stood and stretched. “Find Josh, too. He’s not answering my text.”
Chapter 43
Jade
Iwoke to nurses hovering around Dad’s bed and him complaining loudly.
“What’s going on over here?” I walked over to check it out. “Good morning, Dad.”
“Commander, this ensign needs to be reported,” he barked. “Where’s my doctor?”
“I’m right here, sir.” Tommy arrived just in time. “Looks like these lovely ladies are getting your wound cleaned up. Did you need something else?”
“I need to know when I’m getting out of here,” Dad demanded. “Why are you keeping me here?”
“You’re here to get that leg feeling better, sir,” Tommy answered in a calm voice. “I think we’re going to be moving you soon, to a facility for higher-ranking officers. Would that be good?”
“Tommy Johnson, when did you get so smart?” Dad blinked and rubbed his eyes. “I can’t go somewhere else, Jade needs me at the marina.”
“Dad, it’s fine. I hired on more help and we’re getting everything taken care of.” I laid my hand on his arm. “All you have to do is feel better.”
“What I have to do is stop being crazy and stop the drinking. This old leg will heal. I’ve had worse.” Dad patted my arm. “What’s the next step?”
“Well, the physical therapists will be in here in an hour to get you up and walking. Try to not scare them,” Tommy laughed. “Jade has to go work, so she won’t be here to protect them from you.”
I looked to Tommy, then back to my dad. “He just means people are intimidated by your ranking.” I tried to smooth it over.
“No girlie, he means I need to stop being so cranky and yelling at people, including you.” Dad pushed himself upright. “You get to the marina. I’ve got things to get done here.”
“I’m gonna stay with you for now. How about I go get us some donuts from the bakery?” I looked to Tommy for an okay on that. “Maybe I’ll even bring you one of those crumb cakes you like so much.”
