Page 31 of One Sultry Summer

“During the summers when I wasn’t in school, I helped my mother for many years.”

“What about your dad? What does he do?”

“He works on oil rigs. He was usually gone for months at a time.”

“So, you’re not close to him?”

“Despite him being gone, we’re extremely close. I think he’s ready to retire. He says he wants to spend more time with his granddaughter.”

“That’s nice.” A smile formed on my lips, but I felt a little jealous of his family dynamics.

“What’s wrong?”

“I was thinking how lucky you are to have a family.”

“Don’t you have a family?”

“When I was young, my parents divorced. He decided to bow out, and I haven’t seen him since. So it’s just my mother and me.”

“What about your friends you mentioned yesterday?”

I could feel my smile expand. “You’re right. How could I forget my extended family? They’re like sisters.”

“That makes us even then.”

“What do you mean?”

“I don’t have any brothers or sisters either.”

“Oh, but you possess something that I lack.”

“What’s that?”

“Duh, a little girl. She’s an absolute treasure, brimming with charm, and her sense of humor is off the charts!” He slid the omelet onto a plate and placed it on the table before me.

“I meant to tell you. This is such a beautiful home.”

“Thank you. I like it.” He smiled, but I could tell there was something I was missing. “Where do you live? In a house or apartment?”

“I rent an apartment in San Francisco. It’s in the heart of the city. Have you ever been?”

“I’ve never been to California.”

“You should come for a visit. I’ll take you both to some theme parks and attractions.”

“That would be nice. I’m sure Emily would love it.” He turned and poured both of us coffee. Perhaps I’m getting ahead of myself and thinking too far into the future. I need to pump the brakes. He’s only making you breakfast, not proposing.

He placed my mug down and offered cream and sugar. I continued to eat the omelet until there was nothing left. I picked up my cup of coffee. The sweet scent of hazelnuts filled my senses. It was lovely and delicious.

“Wyatt? I’m not interfering with anythingpressing, am I?”

“No, not at all. I’m on call today.”

“For a hospital?”

He shook his head. “No, for urgent care.”

“Oh.” There was something undeniably intriguing about this man. A man who spends every waking moment doing everything for his community and his daughter but doesn’t take time for himself.

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