Page 97 of Britta & the Beach Boy
But she still puts up that oldSurf City Highpicture and my signed surfboard. And who knows? Maybe this partnership will turn into something more if the timing is ever right.
By the end of October,Frothedis ready to open. The only person not frothing about Britta’s shop is Archie. Not because he doesn’t like Britta or coffee, but because I’ve missed a lot of training. I’m off my schedule, which is the opposite of what was supposed to happen when I married Britta.
“We’ve got ten weeks until Pipe,” he says as we sip flat whites the morning of the official November First grand opening ofFrothed.“Good swell is supposed to be coming in there the nextfew weeks, and you need the practice. I think we should make a trip.”
I start to tell him I can’t leave Britta alone whenFrothedhas just opened, but his look stops me.
“You stay on the Tour and make it to the Olympics; business could be even better for Britta. Her star rises with yours.” Archie grips my shoulder. “You’re so close. Don’t lose focus now. Britta’s got what she wanted out of your deal. Now let’s go get what you want.”
“And what if INS shows up while I’m gone?” I glance at Britta. I don’t want her to deal with them by herself.
“Then it looks like you’re out-of-town working, and Britta gets to answer questions without worrying whether yours will match hers. She can brief you before you get back.” Archie flips up his palms and pulls his shoulders to his ears, waiting for a rebuttal.
I haven’t got one.
Archie’s right. I’ve got to get back on my game. He’s said it before. If I don’t make the Olympic team, Britta’s made an enormous sacrifice for nothing. She took a leap of faith, leaving Paradise and opening this place. I’m also responsible for some of its success. As long as I stay on the Tour, I’m a draw to this place.
The popularity of surfing is growing heaps. By the 2028 Olympics, people are going to be watching. If I’m there, it can only be good for Britta’s business.
All morning I’ve watched her smile at customers, taking orders, while also making time to compliment and encourage her crew. I’m chock-full of pride watching her. Iwantthis place to work. Not just for her, but because this community needs her the same way they needed Annie.
“You’re right, mate. Make the travel plans, and let’s go catch some waves,” I say to Archie, then wave goodbye to Britta.
By the time she gets home that night, Archie’s got us booked to Oahu, and I have to break the news to her. This is the first time I’ve ever wanted to stay home instead of surfing a wave like Pipe.
We eat a dinner of fish, quinoa, and veggies on the patio where we can watch the sunset, but the sky is dark before I tell her.
“When do you leave?” Is her first question.
“The fifteenth.”
“How long will you be gone?” Follows quickly after.
“Two weeks, at least. Depends on the swell.” I try to get a read on her reaction. She attempts a smile, but I can’t tell if it’s forced because she’s tired after her long day or if she’s sad I’m leaving.
“You’ll be gone over Thanksgiving? I thought I’d invite my family, if Archie’s okay with them staying here. I won’t be able to get away fromFrothed.” There’s no mistaking the disappointment in her voice.
“Yeah. I forgot about Thanksgiving.” Now I feel like a real dimwit, even though it’s not a holiday I’ve ever celebrated—not even since living in America. I’m usually traveling in November.
“I believe it’s in our contract,” she teases, and I breathe out a laugh.
“I’m sorry, Britt. I promise not to miss Anzac Day.”
Now it’s her turn to laugh. “What’s that? And are there gifts involved?”
“Only flowers for veterans, similar to your Memorial Day.”
“I’ll add it to my calendar.” Her smile morphs into a yawn. “We probably need to make a schedule of when we’ll be together if we want INS to think we’re really married, but I’m too tired to do it tonight.” She squeezes my hand. “I’m going to shower and climb into bed. Are you coming up soon?”
The first few nights sleeping in the same bed were awkward, but now it feels completely normal. Nothing’s happened beyond talking until we both fall asleep. Staying in her warm bed, though, makes it harder to get out in the ocean with themornings being as cold as they are. And knowing I’ll be leaving for a few weeks has already got me thinking about the kiss she gave me the last time I left.
“In a minute.” I tell her. It’s probably best if she’s asleep before I get there. I don’t think cuddling will be enough to tide me over while I’m gone.
“Okay.” She turns toward the stairs, and I watch her climb them, but halfway up, she stops and leans over the railing. “Dex?”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks for all your help withFrothed.Not just with the money part, but everything. Your support and confidence have kept me going.” She sends me a soft smile.
