Page 66 of A Shore Fling
“No thanks necessary. I enjoyed it too. There was some interesting stuff in there.”
“Are you sure you don’t want the creepy puppet?” I ask.
“I mean, it could be a Christmas gift for one of my brothers,” he says, grinning.
“I have a feeling it’s not going anywhere, so you have time to think about it.”
“I’m guessing you’re right.”
We cross the street and walk to the bike rack. Travis tucks the bag in the basket on the front of the bike. “Are you hungry?”
“Yes. I haven’t eaten dinner yet.”
“Wait until you try the tacos from the food truck up the road. That’s where we’re going next.”
“There’s a food truck?”
He nods. “And it’s got the best queso on the planet.”
A ride on a bicycle for two, browsing in a shop, and dinner? I think I’m supposed to tell myself this isn’t a date. But it sure feels like one.
CHAPTER 18
TRAVIS
The taco truck always draws a crowd, so I’m not surprised by the number of people already sitting at the picnic tables. The multi-colored string lights flash, drawing the attention of all who pass by. If the flashing lights aren’t enough to convince them, the scent of grilled steak and fried tortillas is. As we approach, I see Nina’s eyes go wide, like she’s realizing how great this meal is going to be.
“This place is always busy,” I say, slipping into line behind a couple of teenagers.
“It smells like heaven,” she says. “Do I trust you enough to let you order for me?”
“Depends. Do you want tacos and the best queso you’ve ever had?”
She gives me a skeptical look. “I do… but will they live up to your hype?”
“Hell yeah. This food could solve world problems.”
The truck window slides open, and Teddy, the owner, leans out with a nod. “Hey! How’s it going?”
“I can’t complain. This is Nina. She’s visiting from New York.”
Teddy glances at her. “It’s nice to meet you. What’s a girl like you doing with this guy?”
I shake my head. “Ignore him.”
Nina smiles politely. “It’s nice to meet you, Teddy.”
“What can I get you two?”
Nina looks at me expectantly. “Why don’t you order for us?”
I nod, then order too much food for us to possibly eat, but I want her to be able to try my favorites. We end up at a picnic table near the edge of the lot, close enough to hear the waves hitting the pier even though it’s across the street and two blocks away.
“How long have you been in your current position?” she asks.
“Since my dad retired.”
Her mouth falls open. “Your dad was also the harbormaster?”
