Page 98 of Chasing Sunsets

“We’re staying near the airport in Wilmington. I have to be back at the office tomorrow afternoon, so we have an early flight in the morning,” Dad says.

Mom looks past me and inside the RV. “Do you have everything you need?” she asks.

“Yes. I’m good.”

Dad reaches for his wallet, pulls out a card, and tries to hand it to me. “It’s your debit card so you can access your accounts,” he says.

I shake my head. “No, I don’t need your money.”

“It’s not our money. It’s your money,” he says.

“I withdrew my money before I left,” I tell him.

“You withdrew the money your grandmother had left you, but your grandparents made us executors of their trust. The Cape Cod house and their investment properties just sold for a substantial amount, and the proceeds were divided among you children. Just under two million was deposited for each of you last month.”

“What?” I gasp.

It’s not a lot of money to them, but for me and my future here in Sandcastle Cove, it’s a small fortune. I take the card and hug him. Then, I turn to my mother.

“Will you please turn your phone back on?” she asks. “I’d like to be able to reach my child.”

“I have a new phone, and I’ll text you the number,” I promise before wrapping my arms around her.

Her voice cracks as she bids me goodbye.

I stand in the doorway, my hands shaking, my heart racing, and wave as they climb back into their ride.

But I did it.

I faced my fears, and I chose me.

And for the first time in my life, I don’t feel lost. I feel free.

My eyes fill with tears as they glance around the campground—to the sandy beach, the deep blue ocean—and then they land on Anson, who’s standing between my father’s truck and the exit.

Where did he come from?

He opens his arms, and I take off running, leaping into his embrace. He catches me and spins me around as my mouth meets his.

“I’m sorry,” I cry between kisses.

He pulls back, and his eyes come to mine. “You make up your mind?” he asks.

I nod and turn back to the Lincoln as the driver’s door opens.

Dad steps out and walks toward us, extending his hand. “I’m afraid we weren’t properly introduced before. I’m Frederick Harmony. Tabitha’s father.”

“Dad, this is Anson Leggett,” I say as Anson grasps his hand. “My boyfriend. He works at a fishing charter company here on the island.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Anson. I wish we had more time to get better acquainted, but I have to be in court, so we need to get back to Boston.”

“Another time,” Anson offers.

“Yes, another time,” Dad agrees. “Take care of my daughter for me.”

Anson looks down at me. “Always.”

Dad gives him a nod, then leans down to kiss my cheek before climbing back behind the wheel.

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