Page 168 of Just One More Thing

“Thanks. Appreciate that. Want something to drink?”

“Nah. I’m good.” He leans his forearms on the bar. “Heard Tampa’s in trouble at quarterback. They gonna be okay this season?”

I keep rolling silverware. “They’ll figure it out.”

“They’ve never been the same since you retired.”

I glance up at him. “That’s generous.”

“It’s true. Tell Bethany I’ll see her tomorrow.”

“Sure thing. Thanks, Cade.”

A few minutes later, Tommy walks in the back with Bethany’s seafood just as she comes in through the front.

“Thanks for covering,” she says, already reaching for the delivery slip.

“Anytime.”

She signs the paper, hands it to Tommy, and thanks him as he heads out the back.

“See ya, Jake.”

“Later, Tommy.”

Bethany turns to me. “What’re you and Emory doing today?”

I shrug. “Don’t know yet. Thought about taking her out on the boat.”

“Did you already tell her you bought the island?”

“No.”

Her eyebrows go up. “You’re still sitting on that?”

“I want it done before I surprise her. Allen started the cabin last week and said I’ll have something to look at later next month.”

“Only you would buy the island you two used to play on.”

“It’s not just any island.” I grab Hank’s leash off the hook. “It’s Moke’s Island.”

Bethany leans against the back bar, looking at me.

“What?” I ask.

“You look different.”

“I’m happy.”

The word comes easy.

Easier than it has in a long time.

“Unless you need me, I’m going to get Mo some coffee and go see her.”

Bethany smiles. “Go on, lover boy.”

Hank and I head up the dock and cut toward Tall Tales. I wave at Willard sitting on his bench at the edge of The Green. He tips his hat.