Page 76 of Between Two Shores

“Let’s do that.”

LACHLAN

Lachlan smiled at the sight of his mother’s face lighting up his iPhone screen.

“It’s been two weeks, my boy, why haven’t you called? Too busy romancing Miss Australia?”

He cackled. “Mom. Stop it.”

“So, what’s the latest? How’s it going between you two?”

He strolled to the fridge and grabbed a cold soda. “I’m having a blast here. And I’ve seen Beth every day.”

“That’s good.”

“Yeah, it is. There’s a newlywed couple that we hang out with, and her sister is engaged, so we’ve had dinner there twice. When I have a night shift at Bayside, I’ll see Beth for lunch.” He took a breath. “It’s been great. We’re becoming good friends. Best friends.”

“Oh, that’s so sweet.” Mom’s face bounced on the screen as she walked around her house. “Things are progressing. Perfect. Now, that brings me to a question I have.”

“Yes?”

“We’ve had an inquiry from a potential tenant. They want to lease your unit, but not for six months. A year.”

Lachlan cracked open his soda, and fizz burst out. “Twelve months? Mmmm.”

He gulped his drink.

“So, if things don’t work out between you and Beth, and you come back in a few months, you’ll have to live with us for a while.”

“That’s not likely to happen.”

“You don’t want to live in our house?”

“Not that. Beth and I will work out. It is already.” He sat at the small dining table. “But if I lease the place for twelve months, I’ll be tied into a contract and won’t be able to sell it and buy a house here, if we get married.”

“Married?”

He chuckled. “Wasn’t that your plan, Mom? You practically arranged the marriage.”

She laughed, and excitement sounded in her voice. “What are you talking about, son?”

“The sexy blue dress. I’m ashamed to say that it worked.” He teased her.

“Oh. The Seaview restaurant date. That’s not an arranged marriage.” She scoffed.

“You practically told me to follow her to Australia and wait until she says yes.”

“Mmmm. I did say something like that, didn’t I?” She grinned. “So, you’re actually taking your mother’s advice for once.”

“That I am.”

“Good. I like Beth. She’ll make a wonderful daughter-in-law.”

He laughed. “And wife for me.”

“Yes, that too.” Mom angled her head away from sight. “Did you hear that dear, Lachlan’s going to marry Beth.”

Dad’s voice murmured something.

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