Page 69 of Claimed by my Bestie's Dad

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ETHAN

I sitin the empty living room, staring at my phone, waiting for it to buzz. It’s been two days since I last heard from Madison, and even that exchange was pretty pathetic.

I had texted her to start the conversation.Are you okay? I hear somebody that doesn’t sound like Samson barking.

It had been nearly ten p.m. at night, and it sounded like someone in her house wouldn’t calm down. Of course, now, I don’t know the names of the dogs staying with her because they’ve been traded back and forth a few times since I’ve helped her. But I’ve seen her in her backyard being tugged around on the leash by the strongest ones.

She replied a few minutes later.He’s decided he doesn’t like his cage. He’ll chill soon. Hope he’s not bothering you.

I responded,Not bothering me. Just checking in on you.

But she never said anything else. That’s it. Those three texts are the only sign of life I’ve had from her.

My fingers hover over the keyboard for another moment, trying to decide if I should text her right now. I know she’s home. I saw her outside fifteen minutes ago. I have anovernight shift tonight, and I know if I don’t do anything, I’ll just be thinking about her the whole time.

I shake my head and finally send the best text I can manage.I’d like to talk when you have a chance.

It’s lame, but it’s the truth. I’ve never been this upfront with a woman before about how I feel. It’s a strange feeling.

That’s why I’m working so hard on getting this done—her surf school dream.

I grab my phone again, this time to call a realtor I know. The property I’ve been considering still hasn’t been taken, and I feel like if I wait to act on it, then I might lose the chance. I can imagine something boring like an umbrella rental place taking the space instead. No, it’s too perfect for Madison.

If I can’t talk to her and fix things, then I can at least do what I can to make her happy from afar.

Alex picks up after a couple of rings. “Ethan, what made you think of me? Finally have time between saving everyone’s lives?”

“Hey, Alex. I actually need your help.”

“Hope it’s something real estate related, because if you’re about to describe an injury to me, you know there’s nothing I can do.”

“Please, I wouldn’t trust my injureddogin your hands.”

Alex laughs. “What sort of space are you looking for? I had a cozy beachfront condo come up for sale. It’s not listed on regular sites yet.”

“I’m actually looking for a commercial space near the beach—something that’d be perfect for a surf school. I’ve found one that I really like already, but I’m open if you have something better.”

Alex pauses for a second, and I can practically hear thegears turning in his head. “A surf school? Well, that’s not your usual thing. You starting something new?”

“It’s not for me. It’s for someone…else. Can you help me find a place?”

He laughs softly. “Ah, now it makes sense. Send me the address of the one you like, and I’ll pull up a few other options. You wanting to rent or buy?”

“Either if it’s the right spot.”

“Well, that gives us a lot of options. What’s your timeline?”

“As soon as possible.”

“Huh, well, my day’s open. I can meet up with you in an hour.”

“Yeah, let’s do it.”

We set a place, and I hang up, feeling a flicker of hope for the first time in days. I’m not just sitting around waiting for Madison to reply—I’m doing something. I’m going to prove to her that I’m here for her. It doesn’t matter if we’re in a romantic relationship or not. I care about her.

I have to work tonight, but I have enough time to walk some properties and speak to Alex in person first. I dress for the hospital, though, so I can drive straight there when I’m done.

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