Page 35 of Beachy Sweetheart
“I would, but…” He chews on his bottom lip again. “I need to get through some chores. My laundry is piling up and my room is a mess. I can’t invite you over sometime if my place looks like a gremlin took over.”
I snort and pull him close. “I don’t care what your place looks like, but I’m honored you’re thinking about inviting me over.”
“It’s not much, but it’s mine. But you can’t come over until I clean it up. I promise I’m usually more respectful of my place. I just got overwhelmed, and now Ineedto clean it.”
“I get it. I’ll pop into the live music at the lounge tonight. It sounds good.”
“Robbie is amazing. And I think Callie is with him tonight. They always put on a good show.” His shoulders drop. “Oh, now I want to join you, but I need to be good and do my chores.”
I tip his chin up. “You know I won’t force you to do your chores if it means you spend time with me.”
He rubs his head on my shoulder. “I know. But we can’t glue ourselves together, it’s not healthy. But I’m getting attached.”
“So am I, sweetheart. You’re too sweet to resist.” My hand sinks into his hair and his eyes shutter closed when our lips meet.
If I could stay like this for eternity, I’d die happy. Too soon, the kiss ends.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Daddy.” Another sweet peck to my cheek and he turns to leave.
24
TREVOR
Andy’sall ready when I knock on his door at the end of my shift. He’s even got sunglasses and a hat.
“Ready to experience Happy Time?” I ask.
“I always have a happy time when I’m with you.” He grabs me and spins me around the hallway, making me giggle.
“Prepare to be amazed!” I skip down the hall when he lets me go, making him chase me.
Today isn’t as hot as it has been, which is a blessing. The clouds cover the sun and the wind brings a nice breeze. It’s a perfect day for the carnival. Plus, we can always cool down in the ocean if we need to.
“Come on, we’re almost there!” You can’t miss it with the Ferris wheel high in the sky. Andy laughs behind me.
I skid to a stop at the ticket booth, taking the carnival in like I never have before. It’s bright colors and mom always keeps everything in tiptop shape. No one that doesn’t know its generations old would ever have a clue. There’s a welcome arch that lights up at night. The noise from the rides and games are loud enough to hear them from the front gate, but instead of irritating me like usual, they fill me with joy.
“Two tickets, please,” I say to Kim as I pull out my wallet.
Andy stops my hand.
Kim shakes her head. “Lisa said if you come around to give you the VIP treatment.” She hands over two gold wristbands.
“You don’t need?—”
Kim holds up her hand. “Lisa insisted. She said treat you and your beau like princes.” She glances over to Andy and a twinge of jealousy stirs in my chest.
“Thank you.” I take the wristbands and we step out of the way.
“Let me help you,” Andy says, and I present my wrist to him. He makes sure the band isn’t too tight before snapping it closed.
“And I can help you.” I do the same for him, loving how he lets me. I love his hands. They’re bigger than mine, not much, but enough.
“Thank you, sweetheart. What should we start with? Wait, what do the gold bands mean?” He looks it over a few times.
“Means we can play any game for half off and ride any ride for free. Plus, food and souvenirs are half off too. And we can get a complimentary balloon for free.”
My stomach growls. “Let’s start with food, though. I need a funnel cake.” I bat my lashes and he takes my hand again.
