His tireless support and encouragement gave me the strength that I needed to keep pushing through. When it came time to actually get to work, he was there every step of the way, taking on tasks big and small with unwavering dedication.
Rylan had also been so helpful, going out of his way to see what else he could do. He had stopped by the day before, even with Josh in London. I couldn’t help but smile as I thought about how sweet and shy he had been.
He had arrived right as Michelle and Alicia were getting ready to leave. He helped them load their luggage into the Uber, then insisted on taking out the trash and sweeping the deck for me. He made sure there was nothing else I needed and then promised me he would see me as soon as his Papa Josh got back.
I had watched him ride away on his bike and felt amazed at what a sweet and resilient kid he was. The sight of him pedaling off, his determination evident in his posture, filled me with pride. I felt so bad that he had to endure so much pain at such a young age.
I knew that Josh was the reason Rylan was doing so well. He was so good with him, calm and understanding. He kept Rylanin check but managed to do it without being harsh or cruel. He had willingly stepped into a fatherly role but also recognized that Rylan would never forget his dad. It was inspiring to watch the way they were together and to see the beautiful dynamic they had developed over the years. I was honored that I got to witness it.
The more I thought about Josh, the more I realized how much I was looking forward to seeing him again. I felt so bad that I had doubted him even for a second when Karly had talked to me. There was no way that he could have done the horrible things she had accused him of doing, as he was a truly wonderful man.
And, as my friends had continuously pointed out, he was unbelievably gorgeous.
I smiled as I thought about the way they gushed over him, but then I stood up and forced myself to get to work on something. I never allowed myself to spend too much time thinking about Josh or the way I might feel about him. I knew that no matter what I felt, romance was something that either of us could focus on at the moment. I had to get the B&B up and going, and he had Rylan to care for and his own career to focus on.
I felt a touch of sadness as I thought about what might be happening with his career. He had tried to brush it off and make it seem like it was not a big deal that they were having him come out to London, but I knew better. Companies did not fly people across the world for a casual conversation. I was sad at the thought of him moving away, and I didn’t know what I would do without him, but I also knew that this could mean amazing things for him and his life.
“Stop it!”I said out loud. “This will do you no good.”
I went to the kitchen, splashed cold water on my face, and then sat down to finish planning everything I needed to do for the grand reopening party.
That evening, I set up on the couch to watch a movie and was startled by the sound of my phone buzzing.
I picked it up and was happy to see that Josh had sent me a message.
Hey! I’m back! You up for Surf Shack tomorrow?I’m spending the morning with Ry, and then I was thinking we could come over at four or so. I’ll bring food, we can double-check the property, and then just hang out for a bit. Does that work for you?
I picked up my phone to answer him immediately.
That works wonderfully. It will be good to see you!
I fell asleep that night with a smile on my face, my heart lighter and my mind filled with anticipation for the next day.
***
“Hey!”
I looked up and was pleased to see Josh walking up the stairs of my deck, a huge smile on his handsome face. The late afternoon sun highlighted his features, making him look even more striking. Rylan was right behind him, and I could see that they were both very happy.
“Hi!” I said, standing and walking towards him.
“Look how well you’re walking with that boot,” he said, scooping me into a hug, his warmth and strength enveloping me.
I laughed. “Yeah, I’m pretty much a pro. I think I’m going to run a marathon!”
“Hey, Miss Brenna,” Rylan said, coming over and giving me a fist bump.
“Hey Rylan,” I answered. “How are you?”
“Good! Papa Josh and I surfed all morning!”
“Oh, that’s so fun,” I said, taking the milkshake that Josh was holding out to me.
“Do you think you’ll ever surf again?” Rylan asked, motioning down to my ankle.
“Absolutely!” I said. “I’m not going to let this stop me.”
“Good!” Rylan said.
