Free Sample
Preview from chapter one
"Hey, dad! It's such a beautiful Saturday afternoon, isn't it? Carla and I were thinking of hitting the beach for a bit. Would you mind giving us a ride? We've got our towels and sunscreen all packed up!“
Dad glances up from the newspaper, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he looks at us. "The beach, you say?" He taps his chin, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "What's this, can't you young whippersnappers drive yet?" He folds the paper, placing it neatly on the armrest of his chair. "You're both 21, aren't you?" His tone is teasing, but there's an underlying warmth to it that makes it clear he's not really mad. "When I was your age, I had my license for years!"
"But," he says, standing up with a dramatic groan, "since you're so obviously incapable of functioning without me..." He winks at us, and we both giggle in embarrassment. "I suppose I can spare the gas and the time to chauffeur you to the beach." He stretches his arms, the fabric of his worn-out t-shirt pulling taut over his biceps. "Just let me grab my keys."
"Thanks, dad!" I call after him as he heads to the kitchen jingling his keys. Carla and I exchange a knowing smile, both of us eager to soak up the sun and let the waves wash over our toes. As we wait, I double-check my bag to make sure we have everything we need: snacks, water, and a book to read in case we get tired of the waves.
"Alright, let's roll!" Dad shouts from the hallway, and we quickly grab our bags, following his footsteps to the garage. His old, reliable sedan is parked inside, gleaming slightly from its weekly wash. The smell of the ocean wafts in as he opens the doors, mixing with the faint scent of leather from the car's interior.
We pile into the car, the seats already warm from the sun beating down on them. The drive to the beach is a familiar one, the radio playing a mix of classic rock and dad's favorite tunes from his youth. The windows are rolled down, and the wind tangles our hair as we sing along to the choruses. The scenery changes from urban sprawl to lush greenery as we near the coast, and the salty sea air fills the car. When we arrive, dad pulls into a secluded spot on the beach, away from the crowded main strip. He looks over at me with a knowing grin. "I know how much you two love your privacy," he says, winking. Carla and I exchange a grateful look as we grab our bags and step out onto the sand. The grains are hot underfoot, but the cooler breeze coming from the water is a welcome relief. We find a quiet spot, a few rocks providing some shade, and spread out our towels. Dad settles into a beach chair with a book, promising to keep an eye out for sharks. Carla and I giggle, changing into our bikinis in the makeshift privacy of a towel fort. The ocean waves crash rhythmically in the background, setting the scene for a perfect afternoon of relaxation.