Page 11 of The Beach Hut on Plum Island
“She likes Kurt,” Tucker told his sister. “Vet Vanessa doesn’t like Dad or Ritz.”
“Why not?” Maggie looked at Finn Curiously. “Were you mean to her?”
“No, princess,” Finn said, shaking his head. “It’s just complicated adult stuff.”
“Being an adult seems so full of complex stuff.” Maggie picked up a fry.
“You have no idea, sweetheart,” Finn told her with a warm smile. “And it’s not for you to worry about for years to come.”
“What are the two of you going to do this afternoon?” Finn asked.
“I’m going to Reef’s house,” Tucker answered. “We’re just going to hang out.”
“And you, Maggie?” Finn looked at his daughter.
“You’re taking me to ice skating lessons,” Maggie reminded him and frowned. “Dad, are you okay?” Her frown deepened. “You seem awfully forgetful lately.”
“Sorry, sweetheart. I just have a lot on my mind,” Finn told her, glancing in his diary. “Ah, that’s right, Uncle Sam and Aunt Betty are going to take you to ice skating lessons for me today.”
“Oh, cool!” Maggie’s eyes widened in delighted surprise. “That means ice cream sandwiches from Snow Cones on the way home.”
“Maggie, princess, please don’t have more than one ice cream sandwich,” Finn told her. “You know how sore your tummy was last time.”
“Fine.” Maggie sighed, finishing her food. “But I get hungry after skating practice.”
“Then have some real food,” Finn suggested. “Are you both finished?”
“Yeah, thanks, Dad,” Tucker said, standing and gathering the dishes. “Mag’s, I’ll pack the dishwasher if you rinse the plates.”
“Kay!” Maggie said, sliding off her chair and following her brother, stopping to hug Finn. “Thanks, Daddy, for the delicious lunch.”
“You’re so welcome, pumpkin,” Finn hugged her back and kissed the top of her shiny head. “When you’re done with thedishes, Mags, you need to get ready for ice skating. Aunt Betty and Uncle Sam will be here in thirty minutes.”
“That’s ages away,” Maggie told him, sorting out the dirty dishes.
“It’s best to be ready and not keep people waiting,” Finn reminded her.
“Sure.” Maggie nodded.
“I’m going to Reef’s place as soon as I put on a clean shirt,” Tucker told him.
Finn nodded, calling over his shoulder. “Say goodbye before you take off.”
“Will do,” Tucker yelled back.
Finn was on his way to his home office when the doorbell rang. He frowned, glancing at his wristwatch. “I’ve got it.”
It was too early to be Sam or Betty. Finn pulled the door open and smiled, seeing his sister and her lifelong best friend Jennifer at the door.
“Well, this is a surprise,” Finn said with a warm smile, stepping back to let them in. “What brings you here?”
“Who is it?” Maggie rushed to the door, skidding to a halt, her face splitting into a dimpled smile. “Aunt Caroline. Aunt Jennifer.” She squealed in delight, dishing out hugs.
“Hey there, Mags,” Jennifer embraced the little girl. “You’re getting taller every time I see you.”
“I know.” Maggie nodded. “I’m going to be tall like my mother was.”
“How is my favorite niece?” It was Caroline’s turn for a hug and greeting.
