“Aw, but it would be kinda romantic. Like recreating how you two met.”
He blinks, unamused. “I don’t need help in the romance department. Just tell me how much it’s going to cost for partsand labor so it will be ready for the honeymoon. I’ve run the numbers myself, but I want a second opinion.”
“You’re the numbers guy. I’m not sure what I can do.” After wiping off my greasy hands, I pick up the pages and scan through them.
It’s older than I expected, a 1998 Winnebago Class C Motorhome. It’s missing some modern-day conveniences, but it will still be better than camping in a tent. This thing has a full kitchen, a full bathroom, and a slide-out that opens up to create a roomy interior. The oak cabinets are a bit dated, but a little white paint could brighten the inside nicely. I could also replace the old relic TV/VCR combo with a fancy flat-screen. The dinette is noted as broken, but that’s another easy fix.
All in all, it’s better than my apartment.
“On paper, it seems in excellent condition. They’ve added a new water pump, tires, and kept up with the yearly maintenance, but it’s hard to tell without inspecting it in person.”
His overzealous smile has me leaning back in my seat.
“Funny you should mention that,” he says.
“You’re making me nervous.”
“Since this is a surprise... I was wondering if you’d pick this up for me. Maya would suspect something if I canceled our holiday weekend plans. Plus, you can give it that thorough inspection before you buy it for me. I’ll give you the cashier’s check to pay for it and reimburse you for any repairs or upgrades you think it will need—within reason. Remember, I’m working with a teacher’s salary.”
“I . . .”
Memories flood through my mind, drowning out my doubts. My brother, the only family I had left, and all the sacrifices he made for me. The little boy who made me peanut butter sandwiches and held my hand as we walked a mile to school. Coloring with me as a distraction when Granny was scolding Mom for stumbling home and stinking of liquor.Standing by my side at Mom’s funeral and again at Granny’s. The days he stayed by my side during my detox.
After everything he’s done for me, why am I hesitating?
“Okay. I’ll do it.”
Des nearly shoots out of his seat. “Really?”
“I’ve never worked on a camper before, but I’m willing to figure it out. For you and Maya. But I want it documented that I said this is a crazy idea.”
“Thank you, Reese. I know it’s a lot to ask of you.”
“And you’re sure there isn’t a camper closer to us so I don’t have to go all the way to Texas?”
“Not at the deal this guy is selling his at.” My brother smiles proudly. “Ten thousand is a steal with the number of miles that are on it. Originally, I had planned to book our honeymoon at The Broadmoor, but it would have practically cost the same thing.”
“The luxury resort in Colorado Springs? We used to dream about visiting places like that.”
“Maya will appreciate the thoughtfulness over luxury.” His smile softens. “I really want it to be special for her.”
“It will be. I don’t have anything planned for tomorrow, so I’ll start researching right away.”
“Speaking of tomorrow, do you think you’ll be joining us at church? I always save you a spot on the pew.”
I lift a shoulder and tap a cold fry on my plate. There’s always a lecture when I come over. It just wasn’t the one I was expecting.
“I know Nova would want you there too.”
“Don’t pressure me. I’ll let you know when I’m ready,” I say, holding his stare.
“Do you think you’ll ever be ready?” he counters, not backing down.
“I don’t know.”
“What is there to know?”
“I just don’t understand how God can let bad things happen.”
