Page 32 of Since We're Here
“Basically, we’re cheating a bit and starting halfway. It’s cold and windy out today, but at least it’s dry. And we need to be backto the pub by early afternoon so you can relieve Saoirse, who’s opening today.”
“Good, she was fun. Maybe she’ll hang out for a while.”
I let out an exaggerated sigh.
“I thought she worked at a hotel?” Maddie asks.
“She does. She also helps out at the pub sometimes.” Just as the gorgeous views of the ocean are close enough to gawk at, I pull off onto a dirt driveway.
“What’s this place?”
“My dad’s friend lives here. A regular at the pub.” I gesture down the dusty drive. “Starting from here saves us a bunch of miles.” I park far from the old farmhouse, which is barely visible from the road.
“That feels like cheating. Can I even say I biked Slea Head Drive?”
“Who would you say that to?” I open the driver’s side door and turn to her.
“You know. People.” Maddie shrugs and exits the car.
“What people?” I scrunch my forehead and stand, slamming the door behind me.
“People who care, Patrick.” She plants her hands on her hips and watches me head to the boot of the car.
“Who? Give me a specific example.”
“Like . . . people on Instagram.”
“That’s not specific. And why do you care about people on Instagram?”
“I don’t! I’ve sworn off social media. And no one knows I’m here anyway, so I won’t be posting.”
I let it go, but I’ve never quite taken to social media. Swearing off it sounds like a good idea for Maddie. For anyone.
While I’m unhooking the first bike, she starts to pepper me with questions.
“Where did you grow up?”
“Dingle.”
“Do you see your parents a lot?”
“Yes.”
“What’s your favorite part about living here?”
“My sheep.”
“You have sheep?” She gasps and splays her hand on her chest.
“I do.”
“Do you shear their wool and make sweaters?”
“No. Not if I can help it.” I wrestle the second bike off the rack.
“No to which part?”
“Both.”
