10. Chapter 10
Jared
Ever since that first kiss last week, I’ve basically become the guy who walks around with a permanent goofy grin. Apparently, that’s who I am now.
"You're doing it again," Uncle Tuck says, not looking up from the fishing magazine he's reading in my passenger seat.
"Doing what?"
"Smiling like you just won the lottery and discovered the secret to world peace in the same afternoon."
I can't help it. It's been a week since Mila and I started whatever this is we're doing—officially dating, I guess, though we haven't put labels on anything—and I feel like I'm floating three feet off the ground most of the time.
"I'm just in a good mood," I say, pulling into the parking lot outside The Bait Bucket.
"Uh-huh." Uncle Tuck closes his magazine and gives me a knowing look. "This wouldn't have anything to do with a certain marine biologist who's got you whistling while you organize tackle boxes, would it?"
"I don't whistle."
"You absolutely do. While sorting hooks by size. It’s disturbing."
I shrug, not even trying to deny it anymore. "Maybe I've discovered my musical side."
Uncle Tuck laughs and shakes his head. "Whatever she's doing, it's working. I haven't seen you this relaxed in years. Maybe ever."
He's not wrong. I've always been content with my life—the kayak business, the ocean, our quiet corner of the Georgia coast. But lately everything feels brighter, like I've been looking at the world in black and white my entire life and Mila just handed me a pair of those glasses that reveal colors I didn't know existed.
"She makes everything feel more... significant," I admit. "Like this town, this work, this life—it all matters more when she's part of it."
Uncle Tuck nods thoughtfully. "You've always been like that, you know. Even when you were a kid. Big heart, quiet strength. You just needed someone who could match that steady energy."
I glance at him, surprised by the observation. "You think Mila's that person?"
“Only you can answer that, but if you’re asking for my approval, you’ve got it. She seems like a keeper.”
I nod, throat suddenly tight with emotion I wasn't expecting. Because I’m starting to think Mila isn't just a keeper.
She's might just be the one . The person I want to build something lasting with.
And more than anything, I want her to stay in Friendly. For good.
My phone buzzes with a text.
Nest 9 is showing major surface activity! I think today might be the day! Want to do an early evening check tonight?
Absolutely. Pick you up at 5:30?
Perfect. Can't wait to share this with you.
Neither can I.
Because watching sea turtle hatchlings make their first journey to the ocean sounds incredible. Especially with Mila by my side.