Page 38 of The Way We Touch
“Allie was nervous about Austin’s first day at summer camp. All the condiment bottles are filled, the salt and pepper shakers are topped off, the toilet paper is stocked. I think she even alphabetized the spices.”
“Shit, that’s who did it. Thomas was pissed. The man has a system.”
“My lips are sealed.”
Picking up the iPad, I turn my back to the counter. “So what’s going on with Closeted Clint?”
Craig stops, holding up a hand. “I told you we’re not calling him that anymore.”
“Has he told his family he’s gay yet?”
“No, but they’re very strictly religious. And his brother bullies him into silence.”
“You’re always criticizing my love life, yet you continue to date this guy.”
“He’s very… nice.”
“He’s got a big dick?”
He doesn’t answer, and I start to laugh, holding my nose so I don’t snort. “You are so ridiculous. You won’t let me date anybody, but you’ll stay with a guy who can’t be honest about who he is because he has a big dick.”
“And he knows how to use it.” He circles a finger around my face. “And there’s only one person I don’t want you dating. A certain golfer, who if he puts his hands on you again…”
“We’re not talking about that anymore.” I turn, starting for the door. “Can you cover the lunch crowd? I’m going to pick up Kimmie Joy and pay a visit to Miss Gina.”
“Of course.” He waves me away. “Tell Allie I appreciate her hard work, and she’s very smart to get close to your mini-me. Best way to bag the dad.”
“First, I think Allie really loves my niece, and two, wouldn’t she be great for him? He’s completely oblivious, of course.”
“Your brother needs to get over the past and see what’s right in front of him.”
His future…
“He’s so focused on those boys and that little girl, he’s forgotten how to be a man.”
“He hasn’t forgotten.” Craig slides up beside me. “And I know two people who can create happy accidents.”
Puckering my lips, I nod, thinking about this idea. “Put it on our to-do list. We’ll plan a meet-cute after I sort out my shit.”
“We can’t possibly wait that long.”
Shaking my head, I flip him the bird as I slip out the door.
“Dylan! What a lovely surprise!” Miss Gina sits on a black wrought-iron bench surrounded by a fragrant gardenia bush and several tall peace lilies.
Her white hair is gathered in a bun, and she smiles, her blue eyes gazing past me towards the sky like she’s seeing the angels.
I can tell Miss Gina used to be a great beauty. Even now with lines covering every part of her face, her smile has so much radiance and her features are so bright, she’s timeless.
“I’m sorry it’s been a minute since you invited me over. I’ve been pretty busy with the restaurant, then my brother Zane came home…”
“Oh yes,” Her smile dims. “I heard about that, poor man. People underestimate the importance of a good kicker, and he was one of the best.”
“How did you know that?” I exhale a short laugh. There’s no way she could’ve watched his games.
“My gardener Steven likes to keep up with all the local boys. He was a big fan of your father’s.”
“Oh right.” I nod, looking down. Everyone knew my dad.