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They were met with silence.
“Probably outside,” Grady said. “We’ll set your things in Sara’s room. She’s not coming out this weekend.”
He showed her to her room where she set down her bag. The room had a double-size bed with a white bedspread that was accentuated by the wood slats of the walls. Decorative pillows were piled high, and on the chair next to the bed were fluffy white towels. On the nightstand were some miniature toiletries as well as a small wicker basket of snacks. She’d never been treated this well at a hotel. Her delight must have shown as she exited the room and met Grady in the hallway.
“Why are you smiling?” Grady asked with a smile of his own.
“My room appears to be decked out like I’m staying in a five-star hotel.”
“Right, about that… I know I said that Jodi was a little excited about having you here. Well, my mom is too. She loves figure skating. She’s probably seen every one of your performances. So you may have two people fangirling over you. I was afraid if I told you sooner, you’d think my family was weird and wouldn’t come.”
“Not at all! I think it’s very sweet.”
“Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”
He led her outside and through the patio doors. Down a rocky hill was the water, and Reese could see one figure sitting on the dock. The place was picture perfect. And for a flash, she saw herself sitting in one of those chairs, with Grady sitting next to her. Also picture perfect.
“Shall we go down and meet my dad?”
He burst her daydream.
“Yes, let’s do that.”
ChapterFifteen
Reese followed Grady down the massive rock steps to the dock. The back end of the cottage was on piles and the drop was at least twenty feet. She followed him out to the dock where an older version of Grady, with graying hair and lines around his mouth and eyes. He was sitting in his Adirondack chair, reading a book. Dr. Radcliffe took off his glasses and set down his book when he saw them approach. He hoisted himself out of his chair.
“Hey, Dad, this is Reese Beresford. Reese, this is my dad.”
“Yes, of course I know Reese. Your mother and sister haven’t stopped talking about this visit. It’s a pleasure to meet you, young lady. Just so you know, I’m the only sane one. Call me Ted.”
Reese shook his extended hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ted.”
“Where’s Mom?” Grady asked, looking around.
“Where is your mother?” he echoed with exasperation. “She’s out looking for the perfect produce stand. She wants to barbecue corn with dinner, and she hasn’t liked anything she’s seen so far. We hope she’s back in time for dinner.”
“And Jodi?”
“On her way. She’s been training all week in the city.”
“Training?” Reese asked.
“Soccer training. She’s hoping to make the national team this year.”
Reese was in awe. Every Radcliffe was a high achiever.
“Can I get you anything,” Ted said to Reese. “You’ve been stuck in a car for a few hours and probably need something to drink.”
“I’m fine, thank you for asking.”
“Well, then I’m out of ideas. Reese, make yourself at home.”
Grady turned to Reese. “We could take the boat out on the lake or walk the trail not too far from here. It’s a good workout.”
“Let’s do the trail,” Reese said without hesitation. She’d read about the trails and had brought along some hiking boots.
“Sounds like a plan.”
