Page 92 of Summer on Sunshine Bay

David shook his head, stepping toward her. “Lila, no, it’s not what it looks like.”

“Really?” she said, turning the screen toward herself. “Because it looks to me like you and Sam were making out.”

“I didn’t mean for it to happen, Lila. It was just… I’m sorry. I’m really sorry,” Sam said, and hurried down the wharf.

David’s gaze followed her, and then he pushed his glasses up his nose with his forefinger. “Don’t blame Sam. It was my fault.”

“Please don’t try and tell me you have cold feet because I won’t believe you. All you’ve ever wanted is for us to get married. At least you did before we moved here.”

“This has nothing to do with us getting married. I want to marry you. There’s nothing I want more. We’re having a baby together.” He put his hands on her shoulders. “I’m afraid of being on a boat in deep water. Sam was just trying to distract me.”

“Looks like she did a good job of it.”

“Lila, please, don’t be like that.”

She lifted a shoulder. “You’ve never once mentioned you’re afraid of being on the water to me, David. Not once in all the time I’ve known you.”

“It’s embarrassing. It’s why I didn’t come whale watching with you and your parents. It’s also why I wasn’t a fan of your idea to charter theCaptain Joe.” He gave her a tentative smile. “But it was a great idea, honey. Everyone loved it.”

“So I’ve heard, and I’m glad they did. I’m just not sure I believe you. How long have you been afraid of deep water?” she asked as she searched her memories for signs that he was telling the truth.

He shoved his hands in the pockets of his chinos and looked out onto the bay. “My dad always had a speedboat. He used to take us on it when we were young. He’d tease me when I asked him to slow down.”

That she believed. David was cautious, always thinking two steps ahead to what the consequences of any move would be.

“My brother was like my dad, the faster the better. He was also more athletic than me and was the first to suggest waterskiing and wakeboarding. I got out of it for a while, pretending I preferred driving the boat. Which I did, because I could control the speed. But that ended when we got stopped and my dad was fined. I didn’t have my license. Anyway, long story short, I ended up having to wakeboard. My brother was the spotter, and when I fell off, he didn’t tell my dad. Maybe he didn’t see me, but I was out there for more than fifteen minutes, bobbing in the ocean. Even with my life jacket on, the waves were so high from the other boats, I thought I’d drown. Either that or get eaten by a shark. I swear I saw a whale breach fifty feet from me.” He shuddered, the fear of that day written on his face.

Lila hugged him. “I’m sorry. I never liked your brother, but I think I hate him now.”

His arms tightened around her, and he smiled into her neck before pulling back. “I’m really sorry you saw that photo. The last thing I ever want is to hurt you.”

“I know.”

He searched her face. “So we’re okay? You’re not going to cancel the wedding.”

“No, I’m not canceling the wedding. But David, you need to let Sam go.”

He frowned. “You mean fire her?”

Lila nodded.

“But I just told you—”

“I know what you just told me, David, but I’m pretty sure Sam has feelings for you. It’s not fair to keep her on. Not only for her sake, but for ours.”

“But—” His cell rang. “Sorry, I have to take this.” He answered, made a face, and then said, “Okay, I’ll be right there.” He disconnected and raised an eyebrow. “So it sounds like my mom had a really good time at the pub crawl.”

She winced. “Is she sick?”

“Actually, no. She’s playing the piano and singing really loudly, and they can’t get her to stop.”

“I didn’t know she played the piano.”

“She doesn’t.” His lips twitched, and then he leaned in and kissed her cheek. “I really am sorry about tonight.”

“I know. I am too. Go save your guests.”

“Thanks.” He smiled and jogged down the pier.

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