Page 121 of Wrecking Boundaries

Bert’s poor face and arms are red.

“This is a gift for you,” I say, handing over the white bottle. “SPF 50 will help.”

The sunscreen was Sarah’s idea. After sitting with him during last week’s race, she demanded to know why no one had told him about proper skin care. Honestly, it never occurred to me.

Bert reads the bottle’s description and chuckles. “I always forget, and then it’s too late.” He liberally slathers the white goop on. “Phase one will finish before the new season begins.

“A lot to do after that.”

Sarah is managing this part so Bert and I can focus on the motorsports parts of our business.

“We didn’t lose a single member of the team, Jake. It will work out. The bones are in place, so all that’s left is filling in the guts.”

It’s another of Bert’s made-up sayings, and I’m secretly coming to love them.

∞∞∞

“Look what Lily made us,” Sarah says.

“The intern?” I’ve yet to speak to the mysterious Lily Webb since she leaves whenever I enter the room. Sarah claims the girl is shy, so I’ve left her alone.

It’s a simple sign with our new company’s name and logo. Exposure to the elements will eventually destroy it, but it’ll work until we install a permanent structure.

Yesterday, Bert, Sarah, and I used string to mark crude lines where our new headquarters will be located. It was a primitive effort but an absolute blast. We then went to a local BBQ joint to celebrate. Construction on the administrative section starts tomorrow.

Not long ago, I was a dumb sixteen-year-old kid signing his first contract, and now I’m proving my father was correct all those years ago.

“What are you thinking?” Sarah asks, leaning into me.

I’m thinking that I’m the luckiest man in the world.

“I wish my father was here. Like you said, he was the first to believe in me.”

“Jake.” She picks up my left hand and points at the thin golden band. “He’s here right now. I promise.”

I blink to clear the sudden tears in my eyes. Her simple words hit hard. “I think you’re right.”

“I know I am.” She kisses my cheek and puts an arm around me. “What do you think of the sign?”

Black Castle Motorsports.

“I wouldn’t change a thing. Not a single thing.”

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