Page 42 of Summer Escape
I'd gotten used to these one-word answers. They were better than groans and rolled eyeballs. My family were still virtual strangers to her.
If I wanted her to have a relationship with them, I'd have to take the lead.
Everything was coming together for me. I couldn't let this thing with Saylor derail my plans to reunite my family. That was the most important thing.
Chapter Twelve
Saylor
Last night, I'd run for cover in my room. I wasn't sure what Marshall would say about us, and honestly, I couldn't handle it. So I'd disappeared, escaping from his potential regrets, rules, and limitations. I didn't want to hear them.
I listened for him to come home. He hadn't come to my door or texted. I should have felt relieved, but that hurt in its own way.
I wasn't sure what last night meant because I'd avoided having the conversation. It was immature, but after Flynn, I don't think I could handle someone else telling me I wasn't wanted. I was good enough for sex but not for a long-term relationship. Which was ridiculous because I wasn't looking for anything serious.
I was a mess, and today I needed to go to the Kingstons' and socialize over dinner. Would they think something was going on between us?
I got up, showered, and went downstairs for breakfast.
Marshall was already up, and Hayden was at the counter. I was surprised to see her this early. The sun poured in through the many windows.
"How was your night?" I asked her.
She smiled. "Great."
"Good." I was pleased she'd found friends on the island. It would ease Marshall's mind.
"Dad made a stack of pancakes again. Do you want some?"
My stomach growled. "Sure."
Marshall grabbed a plate and stacked two pancakes on it. Hayden slid the syrup over to me.
I cut into the fluffy pancakes, wondering when I'd had something like this to look forward to in the morning.
"I thought we could head to the beach this morning before we went to my parents for dinner."
"That sounds fun," Hayden said, then looked expectedly at me.
"I'd love to," I said, hoping Hayden would be involved in more activities like this one.
Marshall poured coffee in a mug and set it in front of me. His energy was light and happy. Was it because Hayden was here for breakfast, or was it what we'd shared last night?
I thought breakfast would be awkward, but Hayden's presence had granted me a reprieve. I ate the pancakes, the blueberries bursting on my tongue. They were delicious. I couldn't remember the last time I'd actually eaten pancakes and syrup. I was sure it wasn't healthy, and I might gain weight, but for once I didn't care. I wanted to enjoy these little things in life.
Hayden finished first, cleaning up her plate, then disappearing into her room.
"She's up early," I remarked over my coffee.
"Yeah, I was surprised too. I hope it's not the only time. That's why I asked her to the beach. Might as well take advantage of her good mood."
"Don't be surprised if it disappears at some point."
"The only thing predictable about teens is their unpredictability."
We laughed together, and it felt good to be with him like this.
"I'm going to get ready," Marshall said as he went upstairs, leaving me alone in the sun-drenched kitchen.
