Page 67 of Dreaming at Seaside
He moved her hand from the fabric. “So am I, but if you do that, everyone will see just how happy.” He kissed her again and checked his watch.
“Do you have to get back home?” she asked.
“I promised Evan we’d go boogie boarding in the ocean today. I would really love it if you’d go with us. I know it’s not a very romantic date with a teenager around, but at least we’d be together.” He reached for her hand.
“Do you think I’d miss a chance at going to the beach with you? I’d love to, but if Evan would rather have time alone with you, that’s totally fine.” She suddenly realized that despite how she was feeling last night, she really was okay with being excluded. She’d miss him, but how could she feel anything but good about the man who was doing right by his son?
“I’m sure he won’t mind, but if it’ll make you feel better, I’ll check with him when I get home. But you’ll need to find your phone if you want to know the answer.”
“I’ve got muffins,” Leanna called from Amy’s deck.
Caden waved. “Thanks, but I’ve got a long run back.”
“I can drive you home,” Bella offered.
“That’s okay. Enjoy your friends, and I’ll text you when Ev gets up.”
He kissed her goodbye, and before she joined the others at Amy’s, she retrieved her phone and listened to Caden’s message from last night.
Hey, babe. Sorry about tonight. I miss you, and I wish you were climbing into bed beside me and falling asleep in my arms. Call me when you get a chance.
She texted a response.I would have given anything to fall asleep in your arms, but we did the right thing for Ev, and that’s what matters most. One day it’ll be our turn. Xox. She read the message again, then deletedOne day it’ll be our turnbefore sending it. She didn’t want to seem too eager, even if her heart was already hoping for a future.
