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“That’s right,” I say, having forgotten. “Lila and Sam went to school together.”
“Yeah, Sam grew up around here.” Lila nods. “Our families are friends.”
“Young man,” Mr. Jeffers says suddenly, “Would you help me check the generator? It’s been acting up lately.”
It’s not a request.
“Dad,” Lila starts, but I squeeze her shoulder.
“I’d be happy to help,” I say, following him outside.
We walk in silence until we reach the generator shed. Mr. Jeffers turns to face me, arms crossed.
“So,” he says, “you’re seeing mydaughter.”
“Yes, sir.”
“And you thought hiding out here was the answer to what’s happening?”
I meet his gaze steadily. “I thought giving Lila space to decide how she wants to handle the publicity was the answer. She’s private, and I respect that.”
He studies me for a long moment. “You’re aware of what dating you might mean for her? The attention, the scrutiny?”
“Very aware. It’s something we’ve discussed at length.”
“And your... lifestyle? The touring, wild parties, and women—“
“With all due respect, sir,” I interrupt carefully, “I’ve never been that type of rockstar. Your daughter... well, she’s different too. She’s special.”
Something in his expression shifts. “You care for her.”
It’s not a question, but I answer anyway. “Yes, sir. I do.”
He nods slowly. “She’s strong, my Lila. Stronger than most people realize. But she’s also got the biggest heart of anyone I know. Break it, and we’ll have problems.”
“If I ever hurt her, I’ll hand youthe shovel myself.”
To my surprise, he laughs. “Good answer.” He claps me on the shoulder. “Now, about that generator...”
Twenty-Nine
Lila
When Luke and my dad return to the cabin, my dad doesn’t seem quite as concerned as he did before. Knowing how he treated all of my past dates, I give a small sigh of relief.
The minute they left, Mom asked almost as many questions as Lily had about Luke and the Wild Band. But I notice the tension from earlier has dissolved into something warmer and more familiar.
I catch Luke’s eye, raising an eyebrow in question. He gives me a subtle nod, and the casual way he approaches and puts an arm around my shoulder makes me smile.
“Mom,” I call out, “are you guys planning on staying for lunch?”
“Please, Mom? I’m sure Luke could tell us some stories about being in Wild,” Lily pipes up. “Please?”
My parents exchange a look, and then my dad sighs. “I suppose that would be alright.”
We spend a pleasant day out on the porch. Luke and I on the swing, my parents sitting in chairs Luke brought out from the kitchen. My younger sister is sprawled across the front steps. As the sun moves lazily across the blue cloudless sky, we share stories and laugh until it’s time for lunch.
Sitting there, I realize something important: Luke fits right in with my family. I was a little concerned when I saw his family’s manor. I was worried that spending time out here, he’d miss the fancy galas and elegant society events he attended with Crystal. Instead, he seems right at home as he and my dad talk about cars and engines.