Page 5 of The Summer Dare
I’m not about to tell Dad how I rushed outside in my underwear, with only a hanger. I’d never hear the end of it. Sure, I’ve taken martial arts since I was old enough to walk. He’s always made sure my sisters and I can handle ourselves, but I’m not about to have him show up unexpectedly or insist I come stay with him until my sisters can be here with me. He’s always been protective, even from afar.
No, thank you. I’m an adult and I can handle simple things like renovations. It’s not like I haven’t lived alone for the past few years. Besides, I’ve already got a summer job lined up, and I won’t miss out on potential tips.
That’s just not happening.
“Really? Shit… that’s what I get for putting things off.” I can picture him shaking his head in frustration at himself. Dad doesn’t usually drop the ball; he’s a lot like Nana in that—so he must’ve had a reason not to call. “I didn’t want to bother you as you were finishing up your summer class… and with all the activities your sister has going on with graduation… I should’ve made the time. There’s no excuse.”
“Dad, it’s fine. Really. I’m here and I can handle things.” Even if said things are ginormously tall, sexy, and brooding.I’m sure Ryan’s bark is much worse than his bite, but I’ll handle anything he throws my way.
Dad says something about knowing that I can handle things, but my mind is on Ryan.
Is he always a grumpy giant? Or is there more to him?
Focus, Lanie.
Now is not the time to think about this. Especially with your dad on the other end of the line.
Quickly, I pull myself together and relay what Ryan said to appease my father. “Since the weather is supposed to hold off this week they’re starting with the siding. I’m not sure when the roof will be done, but it will all work out.”
“Do you think we should postpone Lizzy’s party in a couple of weeks?”
“No. I’m sure things will work out. Besides, you’ve only got so much leave and we’ve already invited everyone. Even if the house is under construction, I’m sure they don’t work Sundays, right?” I’ve already cleared that weekend off with my boss and I’m not about to change our plans now—even if Nana has other intentions.
“I’m not sure…” Dad draws out and I can easily picture him chewing on his lower lip like I do when I’m deep in thought.
“Look, I’ll talk with Ryan and get things sorted.”
“Ryan?” Dad asks with interest.
“He’s the contractor I spoke with just now.”
“Okay. I’ll leave things up to you. But if you need anything, you know where to find me.”
Like I don’t have his number on speed-dial.
“Iknow, Dad.” I draw out for his benefit.
“Look, I got a meeting in five minutes. You sure you’re good?”
“Go. Do your thing. I’m fine,” I insist. “Besides, I start work in the morning. I can’t spend the day relaxing at the beach unless I get started ASAP,” I tease, using Nana’s favorite saying when we visited.
This brings a laugh from Dad. “Sure thing, kiddo. I’ll talk to you soon. Don’t forget sunscreen.”
“Yes, Dad,” I draw out. Which earns me another laugh as I make my way back upstairs to get ready for a day at the beach. It’s not overly warm here in the Pacific Northwest, but there’s no rain, so I’ll take it.
After hanging up with Dad, I quickly change into a pair of jean cut-off shorts and a loose-fitting tee and grab a hoodie.
I take a few minutes in the bathroom to run a brush through my hair, only to put it back into a messy bun. I’m not sure why I bother but it makes me feel better to know I’ve at least tried once for the day. By the time I brush my teeth and head back downstairs, I’m starving.
I should’ve gone shopping. But I’ll settle with dropping into a restaurant in town before I head off hungry to the market. Who the hell knows what I’ll end up with if I hangry shop.
As I grab my purse and walk out the back deck, I spot Ryan coming from his truck. “Hey. Do you want me to leave the door open, so you can use the restroom or anything?”
Raising a brow, he grimaces. “Do you make a habit of leaving your place unlocked?”
“Not usually.” It comes out snarkier than I intend. “But I’ll only be gone for a bit and I thought I’d be polite. If you’re renovating the bathrooms, you already have access to the place, right?”
Sighing heavily, he crosses his arms. “Yes. As a matter of fact, I do. But that doesn’t mean you should be leaving your door unlocked.”
