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She kissed my cheek and then walked back to her car. I made my way to the bait shop for ice and headed back to the boat. Andrew stood next to me and watched as I filled the coolers.
“You know, there are things I can do,” he said.
“Nope.” I stood and faced him, drying my hands on my shorts. “Not on my watch.”
I don’t know how Maggie has put up with him twenty-four-seven the past several weeks because after a half hour of looking at his pouty face, I was ready to punch it. Thankfully our passengers arrived before that happened.
It’s another perfect day and as we headed out, I looked out at the water and breathed in the salty air. The past ten years of my life have been spent in offices with recirculated air. I exercise outside as often as possible but it’s not the same as working in nature.
I looked down at my arms. They haven’t been this dark in years. As Summer pointed out the other night, I have a farmers’ tan. Or boaters’ tan, as the case may be.
I’ve been going barechested whenever possible, but I don’t think my chest will ever catch up to my face, arms, and legs.
Once we dropped anchor, my dad and I offered casting help to those who needed it. I caught Andrew trying to join in, but thankfully my glare stopped him. He held his hands up and backed away.
It’s funny and a little sad that when Maggie mentioned Andrew’s healing time being extended, part of me wished it would be. I don’t want him to hurt, but it would give me a reason to stay in Seaside longer. And maybe the extra time would help me figure out a plan that will work for both Summer and me.
The passengers were all talking, laughing, and enjoying themselves, while my brother and I silently observed. He glanced at me with a look of understanding in his eyes, as if he knew what I was thinking. His words confirmed that he did. There’s nothing like twin telepathy.
“You’ll figure it out.”
CHAPTER15
Summer
I pulledinto the driveway and let Thea out of the car. Based on all the vehicles parked next door, I’m guessing it’s book club day.
“Summer, come have a drink with us,” Alice yelled from her back porch.
Thea followed me over and settled at Diane’s feet for a belly rub.
“Why are you ladies home so early?” Alice asked.
“Today was spay and neuter day at the rescue.”
“Is Charles passing that on to you?” Nancy asked.
“No, he hurt his finger playing with his grandson and was worried it would affect his ability to perform surgery.”
I wasn’t afraid I was breaking a confidence sharing that, because Dr. Madden told everyone about the incident at the clinic yesterday. Mostly because people asked. His splinted middle finger was pretty hard to miss.
And honestly, I’m happy to fill in at the rescue anytime, especially when it gets me home at three o’clock. This is the first time since Adam and I got together that I’m home before him.
“Have a seat.”
Sharon patted the space next to her on the couch and Nancy handed me a glass of what I’m assuming is sparkling wine.
“So what are we reading this month?”
Nancy held up the bottle.
“A lightly effervescent Blanc Noir and Riesling blend.”
“Do you even pretend to read a book anymore?”
“We do read books and usually discuss them. But this isn’t book club,” Diane said. “It’s a special meeting to discuss our girls’ trip.”
She’d stopped petting Thea while she spoke, so my silly girl got up and walked over to Alice for some love. Eventually she’ll make her way around to all four ladies.
