Page 121 of Family Bonds- Kelsey & Van

“I’m just doing things as they come,” he said.

“It’s all you can do,” she said.

The ride was bumpy and she didn’t expect any differently.

Kind of like life in a way.

He pulled over to the side that had parking to overlook the water below.

“There isn’t much smoke coming out the back. Do you want to try to eat back there without getting sick?”

“I would,” she said. “Let’s sit up closer toward the cab if we have to. We can eat fast. At least I’ll try to.”

They climbed out and sat on the lip of the bed. Each had their subs in their hands and started to eat.

It was cool out for the first Saturday in November, but not so cool that she needed more than her fleece jacket on.

Van only had a flannel shirt open over a T-shirt.

“The silence is killing you, isn’t it?”

She let out a little giggle. “Yes. This is romantic, don’t you think?”

“I’m not thinking much of it. I’m just happy to know I won’t have any more surprises coming my way.”

“Please, Van. Life is full of surprises. The minute they stop coming is when the boredom sets in.”

“I’ve had enough excitement to last me a long time.”

“I guess that is true for you. Are you ready to start your new career full time?” she asked.

Van had told her that they finally hired his replacement and the person would be starting in a week. He’d spend more time on the hotels and learning the ropes. That also meant meetings with managers and time in Cape Cod.

She didn’t have a problem with it. She wouldn’t stand in his way.

She’d even offered to help if she could. Not that she felt she had much to offer but would.

“I guess so,” he said. “I don’t have an office space other than at home. I’m not used to that. Getting up and working there. I’m not going to take up much of your father’s time.”

“He wouldn’t offer it if he didn’t want to give it,” she said.

“I know that. But he has a lot more going on than just these three hotels. I’m going to have to start meeting with Christian regularly too.”

“Bet you’re looking forward to that,” she said.

“I’m not worried about it,” he said, smirking. “I’m the boss. Christian is going to have to understand that. First thing is telling him what is going on.”

“He won’t be happy, but that isn’t your problem.”

“No, it’s not. Just like he was pissed off that I went over his head and got the names of the guests that complained of the noise that night and comped them some of their room back. I made sure Carl was put on a final notice and don’t give a shit if he loses his job. Sometimes people need to be made an example of. I don’t buy his reason for not being around when called.”

“Some people goof off on night shifts,” she said.

“They do,” he said. “I know.”

“I’m sure you never did.”

“No,” he said. “But as we know, not everyone is like me.”

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