Page 60 of Summer Ever After
“That one was so good and straight.”
My lips lift as I watch him celebrate the good in each putt he takes. He hasn’t hit the ball in the hole even once, but you’d never know by his attitude. Jack is proud of himself regardless. I could use a lot more of that in my own life.
Jane’s voice pulls my attention away. I turn over my shoulder just as she comes through the side gate—anddang!My eyes roam over her body in denim shorts, a white fitted racer-back tank, and red cowboy boots—fitting since her parents are famous country singers. It’s averygood look. My gaze lingers before traveling back up to her face. She’s staring at me with pursed lips and narrowed eyes as she talks on the phone.
Caught in 4k.
And I don’t even care.
I shoot her a brash smile that only makes her turn away and continue her phone call. Folded pink papers stick out her back left pocket, barely tucked inside. I can’t believe she’s still carrying those around. By now, I full-on expect the equation that solves cold fusion is written on them.
“Tell Dad hi. Okay, love you too.” She twirls around, walking toward us. “Bye, Mom.”
“Jane!” Jack beams at her when the call ends. “Walker is teaching me how to golf.”
“Is he?” She inclines her head to me with a questioning gaze.
“Someone told me I should try to spend more time with my family.”
“Sounds like a smart person who gives great advice.”
“We’ll see.” I smirk. “The jury is still out on whether or not it’s good advice.”
“How’s your stomach?”
“Like right now?”
“Yeah,” she lowers her voice, “family gut, remember?”
“Honestly, it feels pretty good.” Probably because she’s here.
Her chin lifts in adorable arrogance. “Then my advice must be working.”
Tala opens the back door. “Oh, hey, Jane.” Her gaze shifts to Jack. “It’s time to come inside, take a bath, and change into your pajamas so you’re ready for the movie.”
“But I’m golfing.”
“Maybe Uncle Walker can come back another night and practice golf with you.” Tala’s voice sounds hesitant but hopeful, like she’s just testing the waters with me.
“Yeah, we’ll golf again.” I take the club from him. “Go get ready for the movie.”
“Fine.” His shoulders slump a little, but he obeys.
“Jane, I’ll let Capri know you’re here.” Tala looks between the two of us before shutting the door, as if she’s unsure why we're staying out here alone.
“How are your parents?” I ask as I grab the basket of balls and start cleaning up.
“Oh, they’re just living their best life on the road, doing summer music festivals and outdoor concerts.” Jane walks beside me, kicking balls toward me with her toe. “Typical retirement stuff.”
I laugh because there’s nothing typical about Jane’s famous parents. “Is that why you’re wearing cowboy boots? You’re just supporting your parents?”
“No.” She sends another ball my way.
“Well, you’re a little overdressed for movie night. I don’t think we’re watching a western. Last I heard, we’re watchingTrolls.” I flip my flirtatious gaze to her, then quickly drop it down her body just for the show of it. “Not that I’m complaining. You look great.”
“You know, you have a real problem with blatantly checking women out. First, it was my legs in the golf cart, and then just now.”
I stop walking right in front of her. My head dips down so our faces are only a few inches apart. The smell of vanilla with a hint of lavender teases me, and the screw-it guy in my brain wants me to pull her close and bury my nose against her skin. Unfortunately, I very rarely listen to him.
