Page 26 of Tangled Trust

"Great. Thanks. We’ll see you in about an hour."

Even with the age difference, Andrew and I grew up being great friends. He’s always good for a laugh, and his wife, Carly, is an angel. They were never the biggest fans of Amanda—not that they would ever admit it, but I knew.

I have enough time to enjoy a quick splash in the ocean before my brother gets here. It feels odd without Jagger, but Dash is beside himself with excitement as he follows me, without an ounce of hesitation, into the surf.

I’m refreshed and ready for a good evening with my family.

"Was that Dash I heard barking hysterically down on the beach?"

"Oh, hi, Ella. Yes. He’s missing his partner in crime, so I thought I’d help him get rid of some energy."

I marvel at how stunning Ella is, even when she’s in jeans and a T-shirt. Her hair is loose and cascades around her shoulders and down her back.

"How did it go with Jagger?" I ask nonchalantly.

"Fine."

"I know his mother can be a tad intimidating."

Ella smiles, and without saying a word, I can tell that she knows exactly what I mean.

"But you’re still standing, so I guess she was in a good mood when you dropped Jagger off."

We’re in the kitchen when I hear a familiar voice.

"Where are you hiding, Caboose?"

"In the kitchen," I call out to Andrew.

"Ah, there you are! Come here," he says, locking me in his signature bear hug. "You’re bony, Caboose. Isn’t your fancy chef feeding you?"

"You gave up your gym membership, did you?" I counter.

"Good one," he chuckles.

"Hello, Carter. How are you?"

"Hi, Carly. I’m good. You’re looking lovely, as always."

"Oh, you charmer, you," she smiles and hugs me.

"Where’s our little fart in a can?" Andrew says and looks around.

"Jagger’s with Amanda, I’m afraid. I’m sure she won't mind if we pinch him back for a day while you’re here."

"I’d love to see the little guy," Carly coos. "He must be growing like a weed."

"You won’t believe how," I smile.

Andrew and Carly don’t have kids of their own. I never pried into the details of Carly’s affliction, but the couple has taken on the role of doting aunt and uncle to my sister, Sophie’s two children, and Jagger. My son will never forgive me if he finds out they were in town and I didn’t get them together.

"So, what are your plans for the week? Carly, Andrew tells me you have your heart set on lavishing at the spa."

"Their full body wrap is legendary. I need a bit of TLC. Old Father Clock is trying his best to get his paws on me."

"Oh, stop it. You’re gorgeous."

"Oi! Get your own woman," Andrew grins. "This filly’s mine."

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