“I told her she should read your book.”
“Ah, thanks. So you’re a reader?” She scoots closer, her camera swinging.
“Yep. And, actually, I already bought it. I’ll start it tonight.”
His head jerks back. “When did you do that?”
“Right after you told me about it. I bought it on my phone while we were ignoring each other on our way here.”
“Ah. Right. Good times.”
“Thanks so much for buying it.” She claps, bouncing on her toes. “Even if it was at the recommendation of someone who spilled an ICEE all over you.”
His eyes go wide. “Seriously. Does everyone know about that?”
“Of course.”
“And I didn’t spill it on her. We ran into each other. Whatever. What are you doing here anyway? Aren’t you supposed to be on a boat somewhere?”
“I decided to hang back and take some photos.” She holds up her sleek black camera. “I haven’t been here in the summertime for years. I forgot how pretty it is. Morgan, how do you like Carlton Landing?”
“Love it. It’s not what I expected.”
“It’s the perfect place to get away and relax. I always used to say the only thing it lacks is some sort of library or bookstore.”
“I can see how it would be relaxing in a different situation. Weddings are a lot of work.”
“Well, what are you guys up to? Besides making out in the closet or hiding something, allegedly.”
Will huffs. “We volunteered to help today, so Ava and Hudson don’t have to worry about it.”
“That was nice. Maybe I’ll help after I get more shots. I’m gathering photos for my Instagram portfolio. See you guys in a while?”
“Sure,” Will says.
She leaves, and he whooshes out a breath, shoulders drooping.
“You know, you don’t have to help. I can take care of stuff if you want to go do something fun.”
He rubs the back of his neck. “No, I’m good. But we both should fit in something fun. Maybe as a reward for finishing the next job.”
“I don’t know. There’s so much to do.”
“Let’s knock out the rest of the wedding favors, then take a short break.”
“Short?”
“Yes, short.”
“Okay. What would we do?”
He puts his palms together and gives me a pleading look. “Stand-up paddleboard?”
“I already told you I don’t know how.”
“That’s the point. I’ll teach you.”
“That doesn’t sound quick.”
