Chapter 21 #2
Jeff sat in the chair across from him. “I was wondering if you have any job openings in your company. I did several summers of construction when I was in college and have experience in roofing, framing, drywall and finish carpentry.”
“I thought you just graduated from college and had a job lined up in Tampa?”
“I did. I mean, I do. Sir.”
“Why the change of plan?”
“I, um, well…”
“Does it have anything to do with my nanny?”
Jeff never blinked when he replied. “Yes, sir. It does.”
“I see.”
Jeff nearly stopped breathing while he waited to hear what Mac would say.
“How old are you, Jeff?”
“Twenty-three. Sir.”
“You’re young to be changing plans for a woman.”
“I know, sir.”
Mac frowned at the word.
“I’m sorry. It’s just how I was raised. Sir.”
“It’s okay. What did you major in?”
“Computer science.”
“Isn’t there a lot of money in that?”
“Yes, sir. There is.”
“There’s not a lot of money in Gansett Island construction jobs.”
“I’m aware, but I could live at home with my mom and Charlie. There’d be time later for me to pursue other opportunities because, as you said, I’m young. Kelsey is going to be here this year, so I’d like to be here, too. If possible.”
“Have you spoken with Kelsey about this change of plan?”
“Not yet, sir. I need to land a job before I can seriously consider staying here.”
“You may be in luck, my friend.”
“How so, sir?”
“My family recently purchased a property on the west side. Do you remember the old alpaca farm that used to be out there?”
“I do,” Jeff said. “My grandparents would take us out there to see the animals.”
“It’s fallen into serious disrepair. We’re going to renovate it for a wedding venue.”
“Oh wow. That sounds cool.”
“We hope it will be. As a result of taking on that project, I plan to add a few people to my team this off-season. In fact, I was just working on the ad I’m going to post when you came in. If you’re sure about this, I’d be happy to have you.”
“You don’t want to check my references or anything?”
“I know your people, especially Owen, Julia and Katie. We’re good.”
Jeff was caught off guard by the swell of emotion that hit him when Mac said that about his brother and sisters. “They’re…” He cleared his throat. “They’re the best.”
“Yes, they are.”
“You… You should know… I’m in recovery from a drug issue I had when I was younger. I’ve been clean for nine years and work the program religiously.”
“Thank you for letting me know. I don’t foresee that being any kind of problem.”
“It won’t be.”
“Then we ought to be fine. Stop by my office in town tomorrow to see Julia about the paperwork. I’ll text her to let her know you’ll be in.”
“I, ah, probably ought to tell my family there’s been a change in plans before you do that.”
“Let me give you my number. Text me when the word is out, and I’ll follow up with Julia.”
Jeff punched in the numbers Mac recited and added him to his contacts. “Thank you again for this. You won’t be sorry you gave me a chance.”
Mac held out his hand. “Looking forward to working with you.”
Jeff shook his hand. “Likewise, sir.”
“Knock that shit off.”
“I’ll try, sir.”
“Try harder. My brother Adam runs a computer business on the island. You might want to check in with him, too, so you can keep your hand in your chosen field during your stay on the island.”
“I’ll do that. Thank you for everything.”
“Sure thing. Make yourself at home until Kelsey gets back.”
Jeff took advantage of the time to compose a text to his family.
Slight change of plan, y’all. I’ve decided to spend the year here on Gansett and will be working for Mac McCarthy’s construction company.
Having you all nearby has been amazing. Looking forward to some good times this winter.
Josh—get your ass to Gansett. We’re having all the fun without you!
His mother responded first. Didn’t I just cosign on an apartment for you in Tampa?
Working on getting out of that as we speak and hoping I can rent a room from you and Charlie for a while longer.
Our home is your home but figure out that lease situation!
Will do.
Is this about a girl named Kelsey by any chance? Cindy asked.
In part. It’s also about you guys and Gansett and how fun it is to be here together.
But mostly about Kelsey, John said with laughing emojis. While we’re talking about plans, meet the new director of security at the Wayfarer. Year-round gig that’s mostly four months of hard work.
Julia responded with, Congrats, Johnny! That’s awesome!
Your old Granny and Gramps are so happy to have you all here in our favorite place, Adele said. Best news ever. Josh, honey, we need you here to make it perfect.
No pressure, right? Josh responded. I’ll come visit soon. I promise. Congrats, Jeff and John. Happy for you guys!
His phone was still buzzing with texts from his family when the slider opened to admit Kelsey, carrying little Mac as Thomas and Hailey trailed behind her. When she smiled at him, he was one hundred percent sure he was doing the right thing spending this year on Gansett.
“Am I late?” she asked.
“No, I got here a little early.” He walked over to her and took baby Mac from her. “Can I help?”
“I just need to get these guys cleaned up and ready for dinner before I go.”
“I can do that, Kels.” Mac got up from the sofa, moving slowly. “Go ahead with Jeff and have a nice evening.”
“Are you sure, Mr. McCarthy? Aren’t you supposed to be taking it easy?”
“I’m sure. I’ve been taking it easy all day. Thomas will help, won’t you, son?”
Thomas nodded. “I’ll help.”
“If you’re sure…”
“All good.” Mac took baby Mac’s hand and headed for the stairs. “It’s tubby time, buddy.”
“Want Mama.”
“She’s napping with the babies, so you’re stuck with me.”
“Mama.”
Mac laughed as he herded the kids up the stairs.
“You got some sun,” Jeff said to Kelsey when they were alone.
“No matter how much sunscreen I slather on, the sun still finds me.”
“Looks good on you.” After she’d gathered her belongings, he followed her out the slider and down the stairs. “Can we go somewhere to talk?”
“I need to run home to shower. We can talk there if you’d like.”
Jeff held the passenger door of his mother’s car for Kelsey. He’d need to figure out getting his car to the island now that he was planning to stay. “That would be great.”