Perfect Summer by Bethany Lopez
Mitch
Ipulled the boat alongside the dock and turned it off so I could secure it with the ropes.
It was a gorgeous day, and I was so happy Faith had had this idea to rent a boat and bring Hope out on the lake for the day. It had been way too long since I’d enjoyed a day on the lake. It was like a balm for the soul.
“So, let’s just take what we need for lunch, everything else will be fine here while we’re gone.”
We took off our life vests and left them on the bench, then grabbed the cooler, lunch bag, and blanket.
As we walked, I glanced at Faith, who looked as happy as I’d ever seen her, and said, “I got some good news.”
“What’s that?”
“I’ve been approved to purchase the land off of Tucker Lane,” I told her, unable to keep the excitement from my voice. It was the final piece of my life goals, other than settling down some day.
“Really? That’s great!”
“Yeah, I should close at the end of the month. So, I’ve already made some inquiries about getting a house built. I can’t believe it’s actually happening.”
“That’s amazing,” she gushed. “I’m so happy for you.”
“You’re not going to live in your cabin anymore?” Hope asked.
“I still will for the next few months, but I’m going to build myself a house … exactly how I want it, and once it’s done, I’ll move there.”
“Will we still be able to visit? What about the Prince Alice’s brothers and sisters?” Hope asked worriedly.
“Actually, all of the prince’s siblings have found good homes, so you don’t need to worry. And, yes, I hope you’ll come visit all the time. In fact, I may need to get your input on some of the rooms.”
If I was being honest with myself, I wanted more than input from Hope, and Faith, on what should be included in the plans for the house. In my wildest dreams, I imagined them living there with me.
“Okay. I think you should have a slide inside,” she said earnestly.
“In the house?” I asked.
As we moved farther into the woods, Faith asked, “Are we going to the old bridge?”
I nodded to her but listened while Hope told me all about why I should have a slide inside my house.
The old bridge was Mason Creek legend. Henry Davis had built it for his wife when they were dating. Legend had it that the river running through his property was too dangerous to cross and his wife wanted to explore the other side of the forest. So, he built the bridge for her and later proposed to her there. Over the years people snuck out there to propose or have picnics, like we were doing today, or simply spend a nice day and enjoy the town legend. It was actually on private property, but the owners were pretty cool about not calling the cops for trespassing. Unless it was kids out getting rowdy or something like that.
“Oh, it’s still so beautiful,” Faith said as the bridge came into view.
We’d come out here a couple times as kids. Alone and with a group. It had always been one of our favorite spots, which was why I thought it would be nice to bring Hope by.
“Can I run, Mommy?” Hope asked, already moving faster.
“Yeah, but just to the edge of the bridge, then wait for us to get there,” Faith replied.
“Okay,” Hope said, and she was off like a shot.
Once we joined her at the bridge, Faith laid out the blanket and we sat down to enjoy the meal she’d prepared.
We told Hope the story of the bridge and some of the tamer tales of our trips here as kids.
When we were done, we decided to go play in the water for a while, so we packed up and started the walk back to the boat.
“Should we go to that little beach area there, or do you want to take the boat back out and swim in the deeper water?” I asked.
“The beach would be better for Hope. That way she can play and get wet, and it’ll be safer. I’m planning to get her in to swim lessons in a couple weeks, but she’s not ready for open water just yet.”
“Sounds good. Why don’t you two head over there and I’ll trade this stuff out for the toys and towels and meet you in a minute,” I suggested.
“Okay. Oh, will you grab the sunscreen as well? It’s time for Hope to reapply.”
“You got it.”
I grabbed everything we’d need and walked down the beach to where Faith and Hope were already splashing in the water.
I grinned at Hope’s squeals of joy and laid everything near the water before taking off my shirt and running toward them, water splashing around me with every step.
“Get him!” Hope yelled, and they both turned and began splashing water at me.
“You’re gonna regret that!” I shouted, cupping my hands to throw handfuls of water at them.
Before long we were all soaked.
We went back to the shore, and while Faith and I spread out towels to lay on, Hope grabbed her sand toys and began to play.
“What a perfect day,” Faith said, leaning back on her elbows so she could keep an eye on Hope.
“It really is. I’m so glad we came,” I agreed, laying back and turning to lay on my cheek so I could see her. “You excited about the barn dance?”
“Oh yes. It’s been ages since I’ve been to one. I always remember thinking they were so romantic when we were younger. I’m excited to see if that image holds up.”
“I think it will.”
She glanced at me and asked, “Yeah?”
I just grinned at her.
“I guess I should tell you that I plan on sleeping over at your place that night…”
My heart, and more, leapt at the thought.
“Is that right?” I asked, already wishing it was the night of the dance.
“Yup. My parents will take Hope home with them from the dance and then you’ll be stuck with me until morning.”
“I think I can handle that,” I replied, but inside I was cheering.
It was the best news I’d had in years.