Page 67 of The Summer Arrangement
And the parent of the year award for most observant goes to… Cameron Kruse.
In my defense, she’s been out of town, and I was rather distracted this weekend.
When she rushes back to the table, she points at me sternly. “We had to let them dry. See, Daddy.” She proudly holds up a rock with what looks like a rainbow on one side and her name on the other. “I made this one…” Then she lifts the other into view, and it clearly looks like a ladybug. “And My Iz made this one.”
“Have you been to Painted Rock Beach?” Lizzy asks as I inspect each rock with care.
“I can’t say that I have,” I admit.
“We can take Daddy when he’s not working,” Milli suggests.
“Most definitely, Mills. Maybe we can paint some rocks together for next time,” I add.
My daughter barely contains her excitement. “Really? You paint with me and My Iz?”
Pulling her in for a snuggle, I kiss the top of her head and say, “I’d love nothing more, sweet girl.”
“It’s not too far from the house,” Lizzy informs me.
“I, for one, am excited to see this rock beach,” Megan says, standing to clear her plate from breakfast. “I need to move a little before making the drive back to the airport.”
“Thanks again for coming, Megs. I know for a fact Milli enjoyed her weekend with you. I’m glad you could visit and see for yourself why I love this town so much.”
The moment I stand, she walks over and wraps her arms around me.
“I wish I could be here for the festival and see all your hard work come to fruition. I’m so proud of you, Cam. You’re doing an amazing job.”
Wrapping her in my arms, I squeeze her tight. “Thanks, Megs. Let’s make sure we get together again soon. I’ve missed you.”
“Once the festival is over, I’m sure your life will be less chaotic.”
I could only hope.
Chuckling, I add for good measure, “From your lips to God’s ears, as Mom says.”
“I hate to eat and run, but I’ve got a meeting. Give me a hug, Mills.”
When she rushes to my side, I swoop her into my arms and hug her fiercely. God, this is the best feeling in the world. “You be good for Lizzy today, okay?”
Giggling with delight as I rub my cheek against hers, she squeals, “Okay, Daddy! Love you.”
“Love you more, sweet girl. I hope you have the best day.”
As soon as her feet hit the floor, she proclaims, “I dress for our walk,” and off she goes to her bedroom.
My attention turns to Lizzy, “You got her?”
“Of course. Thanks again for breakfast. I’m spoiled when you cook like that.”
Not caring that my sister’s still in the room, I take this opportunity to pull her close. “Get used to it. I’ll text you later and let you know my schedule. Do you have plans for dinner?”
“Yeah.” She nods solemnly, and my heart sinks.
So she won’t see my disappointment, I quickly look away. But she stops me by cupping my cheek.
A light laugh escapes as she returns my attention to her. “I’ve got a date with this hot guy I’ve been seeing.”
“Is that so?” I play along.
