Page 28 of Beach Vibes

“Of course. If you have a better plan, we can do that.” Her tone indicated doubt that a better plan was possible.

Jana held in a smile as Dex pretended to consider his options.

“I think we should do puzzles for a while, then go play outside.”

Everyone laughed.

He stood. “All right, everyone grab a plate and take it into the kitchen. Then back to the family room for puzzles.”

When the kids were gone, Jana told herself to finish clearing, then she had to get started on her homework. Not that she was overly inspired, but it had to be done, and delaying only wasted time.

She’d reached for the bowl of strawberries when she caught sight of her brother’s concerned expression.

“What?” she asked.

He nodded toward the doorway. “Magnolia’s taking on too much again. She’s the oldest, and it’s a natural thing for her, but it’s not healthy. She shouldn’t have the responsibility.”

Jana knew her brother was right. “She makes it so easy. Every time there’s a decision to be made, she takes charge. She can’t help herself, and it’s difficult for us to stay on alert all the time.”

“I’m failing her.”

Jana stared at her brother. “Really? Is that where you’re going to go? Isn’t it a little early in the day for that much drama?”

She figured her brother would either sheepishly agree with her or get pissed. Teddy, being Teddy, grinned.

“Okay, maybe, but you get my point.”

“I do, and it’s a good reminder that we have to be more vigilant about not letting her run things. She needs to be a kid. She’s always been a responsible person, but it’s up to us to keep her from taking that trait too far. I’ll pay more attention, and I know you’ll do the same.” She softened her voice. “You know she’s doing good, right? She’s happy. Her grades are great. She has friends and goals and dreams.”

“I’m a natural born worrier. She’s my daughter.”

“You’re a good dad.”

“If I am, it’s because I learned from the best.”

She knew he meant their parents, and she agreed. Theirs hadn’t been a conventional upbringing, but they’d learned the most important lessons.

Once she and Teddy had cleared the table, she retreated to her desk to finish up her homework. She’d just booted up her laptop when her phone buzzed with a text.

Is this an okay time to talk?

* * *

Her mouth curved into a smile as she typed a quickYes. Seconds later her phone rang.

“I didn’t know if you were having family time,” Rick said. “I didn’t want to interrupt.”

Because he was always so thoughtful. “Breakfast is done. I’m about to start studying.”

“Let me know if you ever need help with one of your subjects.” He gave a little chuckle. “I sort of did well in all of them.”

“Not a surprise, Mr. Straight A Student. I’m dating a nerd.”

“How do you feel about that?”

She smiled. “Really, really good.”

“I’m glad. So, I have something to ask you.”

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