Page 92 of Beach Vibes

He gave a low chuckle that sent waves of desire rippling through her. “I’m barely hanging on, but just one more day and I’m done. Next time I’m asked to teach at one of these events, please remind me to say no.”

“Too many people wanting too much of your time and emotional energy?” she asked.

“Yeah, I’m not like you. I don’t like big groups. I do better one-on-one.”

“I’m not a big group person.”

“You’re way more of an extrovert than I am.”

Was that how he saw her? She considered herself quiet anda little shy. But she did enjoy spending time with people. Her staff and customers were the best part of her day at Surf Sandwiches. She could never be comfortable spending hours by herself, working in solitude.

“Are you in bed?”

The unexpected question made her smile. “I’m not sure you have the energy for that kind of phone call.”

“You’re right. I was trying to picture you, not make a play for phone sex.”

She heard the smile in his voice. “Yes, I’m in bed.”

“Good. Me, too. I’d rather be in your bed, though. Just give me a couple of days to get through this.”

“How are the kids doing?” she asked. “I know they’re missing you.”

“They’re good. Dex has stepped in to help, just like always. We’ve got to find that guy someone. He’s been alone for too long.”

“I’m surprised he isn’t fighting off women everywhere he goes. He’s Dex Sanders.” He wasn’t for her, but she could sure get the appeal.

“He used to be into volume, but not anymore. Now he’s waiting for the right person. Have any single friends who might be interested?”

“No, and even if I did, I wouldn’t be comfortable setting up anyone. It’s too much responsibility.”

Which was exactly the wrong thing to say, she thought grimly as she remembered what Rick had done and how she was keeping secrets from both Teddy and Jana. She searched frantically for a different topic.

“Oh, I didn’t tell you that when Dex brought the kids by for lunch the other day, Magnolia apologized for asking me all those questions at the barbecue.” She lowered her voice. “I didn’t mind at all. She wasn’t intrusive, she was worried. I’m new, and you’re her dad. It’s okay for her to ask.”

“She grilled you.”

“In a sweet and funny way. I was fine with it, but regardless, she apologized. I wanted you to know.”

“Thanks. She’s a good kid.”

“She is. They all are. We discussed three was too many, but we couldn’t decide who to let go.”

“That would be a tough one,” he agreed with a chuckle, then yawned. “Sorry.”

“No, you’re exhausted. We’re going to hang up now, and you’re going to get some sleep.”

“You sure?”

“I am. Only a couple more days and then you can have your regular life back.”

“And my girl,” he said, his voice sleepy. “I can’t wait. Talk to you soon. Night.”

“Night, Teddy.”

She ended the call and put the phone on the nightstand. Guilt gnawed at her, making her question her decision to keep Rick’s tawdry secret. Damn him for not being able to keep his dick in his pants in the first place—something she still couldn’t reconcile with the man she knew. He didn’t seem the type, although apparently he was.

She flopped back on her pillow and stared at the ceiling. Talking to Teddy was one thing, but facing Jana was going to be another. How was she supposed to sit across from her friend and pretend everything was fine between them?

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