Page 72 of Stolen Kisses
“I know. That’s what I’m trying to tell you. You’ve grown into your own skin. You’re a good captain from what I can see and a good man. Proud of you, bro.”
Noah swallowed. Never in his entire life had Sam given him so much credit. “Thanks. That means a lot.”
“Just don’t screw it up with Krista,” Sam warned, sounding like Joey. “I screwed things up with Abby and now I have to pay for it.”
“You could just go talk to her. I hear women like it when a man grovels.”
Sam frowned. “When Abby makes a decision, that’s it. She’s not like most women. She doesn’t change her mind. She’s decided that I’m one of the bad guys.”
“Sorry, man.”
Sam shrugged. “Just make sure you do right by Krista. I know how much she means to you. She’s always meant a lot to you.”
Jack returned to the table and plopped the drink in front of Sam now. “Since Noah and I are both taken, the women wanted me to give this drink to you,” he told Sam.
Noah burst out laughing.
Sam looked up at the women, seeming to consider the notion. Noah hadn’t known him to date anyone since Abby had left him, which was understandable because they still hadn’t filed for divorce. He shook his head. “No, can do,” he said, lifting the drink. “I’ll return it, though, and steer the women in the right direction. I have a single buddy sitting at the bar.” He walked off.
Noah pulled his own drink to him, thinking about what Sam had said. He was a little offended that his dad and brothers had had their doubts about making him captain of theSummerly,but he understood it, too. He’d had his own doubts. But he was doing well, and yeah, he’d grown into his skin, especially lately. Being with Krista made him feel more anchored than he ever had. He didn’t feel like he was flying around in the breeze, just taking life day by day. He liked feeling this way. It felt good. He looked at his watch, missing Krista something bad right now. Maybe she was done cleaning her townhouse or whatever other errands she was handling tonight and missed him, too.
“You’re checking your watch. Got a hot date?” Jack asked.
Noah stood. “Yeah. I think maybe I do. If I don’t see you in the water, I’ll see you at the Thanksgiving get-together next Saturday.”
Jack gave him a knowing look and waved. “Tell Krista hello for me.”
“Will do.”
