Chapter 20
Chapter Twenty
KANE
The first light of morning filters through the kitchen window as I crack eggs into the hot skillet. Today, I have plans that’ll take us away from the usual routine. Having no boat until the new one arrives next week gives me plenty of time to fulfill the vow I made when I was stranded. Quality time for Hailey. With Lucas and Tommy not showing up at the community center this week, Timber is free too. After yesterday’s potluck, where she didn’t get the answers she hoped for about her dad, I want to give her a day to remember, something to lift her spirits.
I’m busy at the stove but also prepping for our outing. There’s a picnic basket on the counter, already packed with smoked salmon, sharp cheddar, fresh apples, and a loaf of French bread. We’re heading out to my favorite spot, a secluded cove perfect for a quiet day of clamming and unwinding .
“Good morning, Daddy.” Hailey’s voice cuts through the silence.
“Good morning, Noodle,” I greet Hailey as she scurries into the kitchen, her hair a tousled mess from sleep. “Can you go wake Timber? Tell her breakfast is ready and we’ve got an adventure planned.”
Hailey’s eyes widen, and she grins before she takes off running down the hallway.
About ten minutes later, Timber walks in, dressed in one of the new outfits she recently ordered—a simple yet flattering pair of jeans and a soft flannel shirt that accentuates the blue in her eyes. It’s a casual look but suits her, and I realize I haven’t yet commented on her new wardrobe.
“You look really nice,” I say as I place the plates on the table. “I mean, you always look nice, but I didn’t get a chance yesterday to say how great those new clothes look on you.”
“Thanks, Kane.” A smile brightens her face. “What’s this about an adventure?” she asks.
“You’ll see.” I love stirring up a good mystery. “It’s a surprise. But I think you’ll love it.”
Breakfast passes quickly. Having Timber and Hailey here, sharing these moments, it's like I’m building the life I’ve always envisioned. I see how Timber looks at the mountains, her eyes full of wonder, and I know she’s starting to get why this place is so special. I’m determined to make sure she falls in love with Alaska, just like I’ve fallen for her.
We’re soon out the door, heading to Eliza’s place to pick up the skiff. The road there cuts through thick groves of spruce and hemlock.
As we drive, a pair of rabbits scurry across the path, their white tails flashing briefly as they vanish into the underbrush. I gently touch Timber’s shoulder, guiding her gaze. “See those?”
“Yes, what kind of rabbits are those?” she asks.
“Snowshoe hares,” I explain, a warm satisfaction spreading through me as I see her interest piqued. “They’re all over here. They get white in the winter to blend in with the snow.”
She nods, her gaze lingering on the spot where the rabbits disappeared. “It’s so lush here,” she says, looking back at the forest. “So different from the desert where I come from.”
“Yep, all the rain we get keeps it that way.” I focus on the winding road, hoping these moments are planting the seeds for her to fall in love with this place.
We’re descending when I spot a bald eagle perched majestically in a tree, surveying the cove. I slow down, stealing a quick glance at Timber. “Check that out,” I say, pointing toward the eagle.
Timber follows my gaze, her mouth falling open. “It’s huge.” Her voice is filled with awe.
“Yep, they’re all over Alaska. Part of the scenery.” I lean in closer, taking advantage of her distraction to press a quick kiss to her cheek. She turns to me, looking happy.
As we pull up to Serenity Cove, Eliza and Matt are outside, getting a stroller ready for a walk with Cody.
I park the ATV. “Morning, Eliza, Matt!” Hailey unbuckles and runs ahead, eager to peek at her baby cousin.
“It’s a perfect day for an outing,” Eliza says.
With a nod, I face Timber. “We’re taking my skiff out for the day.”
“The forecast says it will be clear. It’s perfect for an adventure,” Eliza says.
“Ever been clamming?” I ask Timber, hoping she’s interested. If not, we’ll simply picnic and enjoy the scenery.
“No, never, but I’m looking forward to learning something new.”
“That’s the spirit.” I love how she’s always open to anything, from staying in a dry cabin to finding Devil’s Claw for May.
Eliza pushes the stroller up the hill but calls over her shoulder, “I want some clams too.”
We load up the skiff with our gear and the picnic basket, ready to head to the cove.
“Alright, let’s get this day started.”