Page 37 of Jump Start

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“There’s some beach fishing just down the end of the sand walkway, straight ahead.” Brendan pointed out towards the water.

The house was in a perfect spot, a two-storey that overlooked the ocean, with just enough trees to create shade over their outdoor area. I could see why they retired here.

As we walked down the walkway to the beach, I felt the sand burn my feet. “Fuck it’s hot!” Andy and Brendan laughed.

“Silly little race car boy, always having to wear foot protection.”

I laughed. “Aren’t you two in the Army?” I asked, trying to remember what Harper had said.

“Ha! Our dad would love that. No mate, we’re Navy. Techos.”

I nodded. I had seen a few technicians on the race circuit, doing gap years and such, helping out at the garages. They were an incredible asset to the event, and I could tell they loved the different environment and change of pace.

I knew I was going to get along with these two. They were well accomplished, they didn’t give a shit about my profession, and they were related to Harper. How could I not like them?

We arrived at the beach, and it was people-free, a bit windy, but a great summer’s day. I wanted to ask if they were doing okay with what had happened to their father, but I didn’t want to upset them. I settled for keeping it light, instead.

“Alright, chuck us that reel. Let’s see if we can get somesnapper. Could have a barbecue tonight!” Brendan said excitedly as he opened his tackle box.

“Sorry to tell you both, but I hate seafood.”

They both stopped what they were doing and looked at me with concern.

“Shit, no wonder Harper likes you. Is it an ethical thing, or…”

I cut Brendan off. “Nah, just don’t like the smell, mate. Fish away.” I dug my heels into the sand as I sat down and applied more sunscreen. Even growing up in the sun and being reasonably tanned, I would always burn first. Plus, I had a feeling Harper would give me shit if I came home from fishing with her brothers and was beetroot red.

We had fished for a few hours before deciding it was time for some shade.

“Let’s go home, ay?” Brendan suggested. Andy and I thought it was a particularly good idea, so we trudged back to the house with fewer beers and no fish, looking forward to the relief of the shady balcony.

I checked my phone and saw that I had a message from Harper.

Harper:Just finishing up should be home soon all is okay xx

I smiled at the thought of her anxieties hopefully being relieved after seeing her father.

Me:Glad to hear sweetheart x

I wasn’t much of a texter, but she was, so I had to try to make more of an effort.

“Right, well I reckon the best spot for us right now is here on the couch with a few more beers,” Andy announced to the group. Brendan and I plonked ourselves down on the large outdoor setting.

“I’ll have to stop there with the beers. Mid-season. Not a good idea.”

Andy gave me the thumbs up as I settled on the couch with an ice-cold soda instead, eagerly watching the driveway for a sign of Harper’s mum’s car. I couldn’t wait to welcome Harper home.

***

Harper

Leaving Thomas with both my brothers was either going to be a genius idea or a disaster. I guess I would find out once Mum and I were back from the hospital.

I had pulled my brothers aside that morning, before jumping into the car with Mum.

“Go easy on him, will you please?” I begged, directing my gaze at Brendan in particular. “Why are you looking at me? I’m a delight.” Andy and I both laughed at this. “Don’t worry, we won’t torture him, we’ll let Dad do that when he’s back.”

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