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Knowing the Promenade is one of the longer walking paths in Seaside that’s well-lit and filled with people at all hours, I nod in agreement. It’s not quite dark, but the sun will set soon. “Sounds good.”
Once we’re walking, I switch the subject to him. “So, tell me, Jax… what’s something you consider fun to do in Seaside?”
“Well, since I’ve been home for the summer, I haven’t had a lot of free time. But I do like to hike and do the ropes course. I also go to bonfires at the beach and anything that keeps me away from the downtown crowds in the summer. I’ve mainly spent time alone just playing music—as I’m sure you could’ve guessed.”
Bumping my hip into him as we walk along the sidewalk, I tease, “Yeah, I thought music might be in there. You sure you’re not holding back on me about performing in public? The way you played tonight was better than most I’ve seen.”
“Thanks,” he sighs heavily. “I’m not sure what got into me tonight—but I’m nowhere used to playing in public. I still can’t believe Joe wants to make this a regular thing. But I’m not a fool, and I won’t turn down the money offered. I can use every cent for college this fall.”
Just as we make it to the Prom, a bicyclist zooms past, and Jax quickly places a hand on my lower back, guiding me around them, as well as the next girl enjoying her evening ride. The moment we’re in the clear, his hand drops, and I’m left feeling a sense of loss.
Why do I miss his touch?That makes no sense.
Shaking my head to clear my ridiculous thoughts, I ask the first question that pops into my mind, “So… you’re planning to be a computer engineer and a closet musician? How exactly will that work?”
The low chuckle Jax releases makes me smile in return. “Well, I wouldn’t put it like that. But yeah, I’m graduating next year with my bachelor’s in computer engineering. I’ve always been interested in technology and well… music is just something I’ve done since living in the dorms. My roommate taught me the basics on the guitar, and while he was away one weekend, it just sort of is something I picked up.”
Is he kidding me?
“Uh, something you just picked up…eh? Well, lucky for us you did because you’re an insanely talented musician.”
“I wouldn’t go that far, Sloane. But thanks.”
Does he really not see it?
It’s endearing how modest he is. But instead of praising him further, I ask another question I’ve been dying to know since the day we met. “How does your dad fit into all of this? You mentioned something about your performance being a promise to your dad… what did you mean by that?”
Shrugging, he grins. “You noticed that tidbit, did you?”
Uh, I’ve noticed everything about you.
Thankfully, my brain catches up to my mouth, and I manage a challenge. “Are you gonna tell me, or is this some family secret you’re taking to the grave?”
This earns me a deep belly laugh.
God, this man is gorgeous when he smiles.
“No, Sloane, it’s not a family secret.” Taking a deep breath, he slowly exhales. “And I’m certainly not taking it to the grave… dramatic much? Seriously though, it’s more of a challenge he’s pushed upon me.”
“What do you mean, challenge?” I ask, my curiosity piqued.
“To make areallylong story short, my dad is one of the best men I know. From the moment he found out Mom was pregnant with me, he’s always taken the safe route. His entire goal was to provide for our family, no matter the sacrifices he had to make personally…” He trails off as he walks toward the cement railing along the Prom and stares out at the ocean.
“He sounds like a wonderful man,” I prompt, hoping he’ll share more.
“Yeah, he really is,” he says on a sigh, as he watches a seagull land a few feet below us in the sand. “One time when I was younger, I used to love visiting him at work at the mill. Like most boys my age, I loved heavy equipment and wanted to drive them when I got older. I couldn’t think of a better job in the world. Then one day, I asked him if he liked working at the mill. I’ll never forget the look on his face—as it was evident, he didn’t. But he never complained; he simply explained it the best way he could. He said, ‘You know, Jax, sometimes it isn’t about loving the job. It’s more about providing for those you love.’”
Jax is quiet for a moment, and I watch patiently as he rolls his lower lip between his teeth. Eventually, he shakes his head and meets my gaze. “The answer to your question will make more sense now that you know that bit of backstory.” Letting out a long breath, he slowly smiles. “You see… Dad came home from work one day early this summer and heard me playing on our back deck. I have no idea how long he listened to me play, as I thought I was alone. I’d been working on one of my songs and so entranced in the process, I didn’t even see him. When I finally got the song exactly how I wanted it and played it through for myself, I was met with a slow and steady clap—which nearly scared the piss out of me.” Jax chuckles, and I can’t help but join him as I picture the scene.
“Dad walked onto the deck with an expression I couldn’t quite read. He’d been smiling one minute and the next, he was more serious than I’d ever seen him. He asked how long I’d been playing, and I told him I’d picked it up a few years ago. Then he asked why he’d never heard me play before.”
Invested in his story, I blurt out, “What’d you tell him?”
Shrugging, he grins impishly as he runs a hand through his hair. “The truth. It was just something I did for fun. Then he said something completely out of character. He told me he’d never seen me look so happy and that if I’m interested in playing music, I should take my shot. I’m young and can always fall back on my original plans. Other than getting my degree, I have no responsibilities, or anyone relying on me, and why not do something I’m passionate about.”
Wondering if I’d missed him in the crowd, I ask, “Was he there on open mic night?”
“No. He and Mom are celebrating their anniversary this week on an Alaskan cruise. It’s something she’s always wanted to do, so he surprised her.”
