Page 63 of Memories By the Shore
“I’ll take an old-fashioned,” I tell him, then turn to scan the room for Chris. It only takes me a second to spot him, and sure enough, he’s walking in my direction.
The bartender places the drink on top of a square white napkin. “Here you go.”
But before the glass touches the paper, I grab it from his hands, bring it to my lips, and take a large swig.
“Thank you.” I set the half-empty drink back on the napkin. “I don’t like to drink at work functions. You can toss the rest.”
A puzzled look sweeps across his face. “Um, okay.”
“Mayor Collins.” A man’s voice booms behind me. I turn around to see Chris, an older gentleman the board hired as the new CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. He’s from Southern California, and the community is excited to have him in our town.
“Chris Hooper,” I greet him, extending my arm.
He shakes his hands with enthusiasm. “I’m glad we finallywere able to meet.”
“Yes, likewise.”
“I’ve heard about all the incredible things you’ve done with the town since being elected last year.”
“Thank you,” I say. “It’s my home, so this community means everything to me.”
“I’m looking forward to being a part of it.” He smiles, raising his glass. I had nothing in my hands, so I grabbed the first drink I saw, which was a water bottle.Fuck. I’m off my game tonight.
“Cheers,” I say, giving him a quick nod. “Glad you could come to our monthly business owners’ mixer.”
“Happy to be here,” he says, sipping his red wine. “You also own a few properties out here, correct?”
“My dad and I owned a surf shop before he passed,” I tell him, a wave of sadness at the thought of my father. “Now, it’s just me that owns it.”
“Sorry to hear about his loss,” he offers. “Will you pass it down to your kids one day?” he asks, possibly thinking he’s lightening the mood—an innocent question I’ve been asked numerous times over the years, but with Avery back in town, it kicks up past trauma in a way it hasn’t in some time.
I swallow the threat of emotion and push away the memory of that night. “That has always been the plan.”
“I bet.” He smiles, oblivious to the battles inside my head.
My phone vibrates in the front pocket of my slacks.
Arizona: Thanks for taking me to see the beach house today. It’s incredible what you did.
My heart skips a beat.She’s texting me.She’s initiated contact this time.
“Excuse me, Chris.” I place one finger into the air. “I have to take this.”
“Yes, yes.” He nods, stepping away.
“We’ll talk soon.” I smile, then search for the closest door. I sprint through the groups of people chatting about business with cocktails in their hands. Before stepping into the hall, I catch sight of Gail. Her eyes bore into mine, suspicious of where I was going.
Me: Thank you. I had a lot of inspiration.
I tap out a response as soon as I’m in a quiet area.
Arizona: So many memories there.
I smile to myself.
Me: Yes.
Arizona: Was it hard to live there after everything?
