Page 81 of Smuggler's Cove
“Wasn’t that a movie with George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg? What does that have to do with it?” Olivia prodded.
“The movie was based on a true story.”
“I guess I missed that part.” Olivia snickered.
“I think you fell asleep in the middle of it.”
“It was a dreadful story. Can you blame me?”
Lincoln kissed his wife on the forehead. “No.”
“Hey, you two, wrap it up. We have to get back to the city so we can shop, and I don’t want to miss the ferry,” Madison prodded.
Charlie had to make two trips again to get them back to the ferry, but he didn’t seem to mind.
“Thanks for everything, Charlie. We could not do this without you,” Lincoln said sincerely.
“Glad to help. Kirby would be proud.” Charlie wiped a tear from the corner of his eye and pretended it was a speck of dirt.
On the ferry ride back, Madison asked, “What did you offer to pay Charlie?”
“At first, he refused to take any money from me. I told him that was unacceptable, and I would pay him thirty-five dollars an hour.”
“Is that enough?” Madison had no idea what construction foremen got.
“He said it was more than enough, so I didn’t argue with him.”
“And Crusty?” Madison had to resist giggling every time she spoke or heard his name.
“He’s happy with twenty, and Josh will get fifteen, plus whatever tips customers give him.”
“Look at you, the entrepreneur!” She gave a little clap of applause.
“I am going to have to come down here every weekend to check on the job.” Lincoln did not appear to be bothered by that idea.
“You might need a chaperone,” Olivia said, smirking.
“I think two chaperones,” Madison added.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Lincoln smiled.
Chapter Seventeen
The Start of Something
The following weekend, Lincoln took an early ferry to the Highlands. He was anxious and excited to see how much had been done. Charlie picked him up and began to rattle off everything that had transpired.
“Got the dumpster and started ripping up the bad planks. I think you might want to consider replacing all of ’em.” He tooted his horn and waved at someone walking their dog. “I know it ain’t in the budget, but it will look a heck of a lot better.”
“What kind of money are you talking about?” Lincoln was prepared for “extras”; just how much was the big question. He hoped he could answer affirmatively.
“Prob’ly another two grand.”
Lincoln breathed a sigh of relief. He had set aside five thousand for unforeseen expenses. “We can do that. I want the place to look good.”
“With the new shed, and new planks, it’s gonna look brand-spankin’ new.” He pulled his truck next to Hannah’s.
When Lincoln saw the new materials, he realized Charlie was right. Not that he had any doubts, but the contrast between the old, splintered planks and the new ones was considerable. “Good call, Charlie.”
