Page 115 of Loving Wild

Because my currentlicense has expired, Gabe has me booked in for a four-hour boat license renewal course in the morning. If I want to go out on the jet ski without being on the back of someone else’s, I’m going to need it.

The course runs from eight till twelve, and because I’m feeling a little off after having something to eat, I use the long drive and early start in the morning as my excuse for having an early night.

“You okay?” Gabe grabs my hand and pulls me into his lap when I stand to leave.

“Yeah, I’m just wiped. I can’t rock up for my boat license with a hangover, so rather than sit here and sip tea, I’d rather get some sleep. You don’t mind, do you?”

His eyes are glassy, and his smile lop-sided, two indicators that he’s not only had a skinfull but since Jackie went to bed, he’s been able to chill and relax with his family. Other than wine or a beer with his dinner, he’s barely touched alcohol since I returned from our brief separation, and I know it’s something he’s made a conscious effort to do. I’ve never thought Gabe has a problem with alcohol, but it does impact the way he reacts in certain situations.

This weekend is a time to relax, kick back, and enjoy being together as a family, and he’ll get no judgement from me for wanting to have a drink with his brothers. Hopefully, after a good night’s sleep, I’ll be in the mood to join them tomorrow night.

“Course not. You don’t mind if I stay up for a bit?”

Brushing my palm over the dark stubble on his jaw, I shake my head.

“Nah, it’s been a hectic couple of months. Enjoy your time with your dad and brothers.”

After a quick brush of his lips on mine, he releases me, and I take myself off to bed.

* * *

I passmy license course and walk back to the house to find all the kids, Gabe, and his brothers in the pool. A net has been set up across the middle, and Joe is currently umpiring a very loud volleyball game.

They’re arguing so loudly between them, I can’t even hear the music being played through the speakers, so keep walking until I reach the covered alfresco where Jess, Sam, and Dani are sitting sipping Sangria.

“How’d ya go?” Jess asks.

I hold up my temporary permit before taking a seat next to her.

“It was easy, I’ve held one for years because we have a couple of . . .” I trail off as I realise what I was about to say. “Jay and the boys had a jet ski each, I used to ride them, but didn’t renew my license the last time it expired.”

“I hate the bloody things,” Sam states. “I think they’re dangerous.”

“You want a drink?” Dani asks.

“Actually, I’m starving. I should probably eat first.”

Jess leans towards me. “Jackie’s gone inside to make up a cheeseboard. She might be a cunthole, but she does a good platter,” she whispers behind her hand conspiratorially. Sam, obviously having shared our conversation and nickname for Jackie with her.

“What you two whispering about? Don’t ya know that’s rude in company?” Dani admonishes.

“Sorry,” I apologise. “You’re absolutely right, that was rude, and yes, Dan, I’d love a drink.” I give Jess a narrowed side-eye glare as Dani reaches for a clean glass and pours my drink from the jug sitting on the table.

One sip has my head spinning.

“What’s in that?” I question, spluttering through the heat that’s just hit my throat and belly.

“Brandy, vodka, red wine, other stuff,” Sam flicks her wrist with each ingredient she recites.

“No wonder you’re all buzzing,” I say with a head shake. “I definitely need food if I’m gonna catch up with you three.”

“The boys had their night last night, they want to take the boat and jet skis out tomorrow, so it’s our turn tonight.” This time it’s Sam who leans in and talks to me. At the same time, Jackie arrives with a huge platter of cheeses, cold meats, crackers, pâté, warm bread, and olives.

“Lauren,” she says as she sets it down, and it’s the first thing she’s said to me directly since I got here.

I don’t say anything in response, I do admire the kaftan she’s wearing over a pair of white linen trousers as she walks back into the house though.

“This looks great, Jack, thanks,” Dani calls out. I decide then that for everyone’s sake, I won’t be an arsehole this weekend. I’ll obviously never be besties with Jackie, but on occasions like this and any other family get-togethers, I will be civil.