“I do not. I know the real world. I just also know how to relax and have fun, something my older siblings need to learn how to do.” Asher threw the napkin back at me. “Anyways, I can get the blueprints to the powers that be tomorrow by lunch, along with a large donation to whatever. I predict we can have the go by tomorrow afternoon.”

“You’re pretty sure about yourself and your ability to get this done.” I stood when I saw the boat coming into the dock.

“Like I always say, cous, money talks, and thank goodness for that.” Asher took his last bite and stood. “Let’s go play on those ATV’s.”

“Look who I found at the marina.” Lou gestured back to a man sitting on an ATV. “He said he was meeting you this morning, so we brought him along.”

“Johnny, you got here sooner than I expected. Come on in and have a bite, then we’ll head out.” I shook hands with him. “Perfect timing, too. We can take the ATV’s.”

“Thanks, I already ate on the flight here. Asher, what are you doing out of bed this early?” Johnny teased him. “You coming with us to look around?”

“I had to see some friends off and, yeah, I’m coming.” Asher jumped on the boat. “These are some nice-looking ATV’s.”

Josh and the crew came out with a ramp and started unloading the ATV’s. Charlie and Lou jumped on the first two off and ran them around on the beach.

“I’m glad I listened to you, Gunner. Those bigger wheels you suggested don’t seem to have a problem with the sugar sand.” I got on the next ATV that was unloaded. “Last one there’s a rotten egg.”

“Josh, you and a couple guys grab some drinks and snacks and meet us out there,” I called out when I circled back. “Let’s go boys, those are your ideas out there.”

“I’m gonna need to get a faster engine on mine,” Robert yelled as he blew past me and Asher. “Maybe not, if you drive like that.”

“You may have met your match for living on the edge,” I called out to Asher.

“I had to let him go ahead. I don’t know the path,” Asher yelled back, then sped off.

Gunner caught up with Robert and they led the group to the beginning of the path they’d made the day before. We spent the next few hours measuring, discussing, and planning. Then we headed back to the house.

“I like what you planned out there, boys, and I like your add-on of the solar panels, Asher,” Johnny said. “When you’re done playing, we should talk. I think your solar power ideas could go a long way with the new malls.”

“Let’s get done with this, then I can come take a look.” Asher shrugged it off. “Sawyer and I are going to get the plans drawn up so I can submit it all tomorrow afternoon.”

“Point to an office and send in some coffee and I’ll get this ready for you in a few hours.” Johnny stood. “Later, I’d like a tour of this place. It’s pretty amazing.”

“Thanks, I designed it myself.” I looked around, smiling. “Asher had his two cents too.”

“If you don’t need us, we’re going to the marina to help out for the afternoon,” Gunner said. “Are all questions asked and answered?”

“I got it, but I’ll call you if I have any additional questions.” Johnny shook his hand. “I’ll see you at the marina later before I leave.”

“Am I missing something?” I noticed a look between the two men.

“I have to go to the marina from here, so I’ll see them there.” Johnny looked at me like I had three heads. “Am I missing something?”

“Who’s on first?” Charlie walked by joking. “Or is itwhat’s on second?” Let’s go, boys. I’m flying this time.”

“We better go, he’ll leave us,” Lou said. “See you for dinner. What time is dinner, by the way?”

“There is no formal dinner time. Just message me later when you’re on your way back,” I smiled. “Thanks for all your help out there, again.”

“I still think we should have had a tougher expedition for your guests,” Lou mumbled as they walked away. “Think about it.”

Chapter 69

Jade

Istayed up late with Dad, talking about the marina and rehab and Moose going with him. Moose was a hit with the nurses who brought him treats all night. No sooner had the sun rose than Tommy was in the room waking me.

“Transport has been scheduled for an hour from now. An ambulance will bring him to the airstrip where he will be flown to the facility in California,” Tommy explained to both of us. “Admiral, a nurse will travel with you, so if you get uncomfortable, she can administer medication through your IV.”