Call You Mine (The Baker’s Creek Billionaire Brothers #4) - Claudia Burgoa Page 0,49
when I thought about it. But now it seems like maybe the second worst idea I’ve come up with. The first is asking Beacon to help me.
“I know a place close to Portland where we can find your toys,” she says. “When are you moving in?”
“This Friday.”
“We can go out on Saturday.”
“But it’ll be in the middle of the crochet festival?” I gasp. “What will the town say if one of you is missing?”
Baker’s Creek is famous for its ridiculous and outrageous festivals that happen almost every weekend. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy them. Before Beacon’s dad died, we used to visit the town often just to go around to the vendors. The things they sell are amazing.
“Well, I need a break after the Yodeling Festival. You should’ve been here to control Beacon. He was singing and trying the instruments in every booth. I don’t think Henry has been that embarrassed in his entire life.”
I can’t control the laughter as I imagine Beacon being, well, Beacon. He likes to have fun. Sometimes, he seeks attention. Others, it’s just for the laughter. A couple of years ago, we were in Germany during Oktoberfest. It was entertaining to see the man singing, playing, and just becoming part of the festival. However, his brothers don’t understand him. It actually makes them uncomfortable, and that’s something Beacon likes to exploit.
“Not even after the anal beads incident?”
Last year, during the Beads and Handmade Jewelry Festival, he made an entire production about using them without lube. Beacon said it was hilarious to see his brothers flustered. The best part was the murderous glares because he was discussing their sex lives in front of the entire town.
She laughs. “No. It was worse because Beacon carried a microphone and a small portable speaker with him. He made Henry sing.”
“Please tell me you guys recorded it.”
“Of course, we did. You know we always find the time to record Henry’s best and most embarrassing moments.”
“I can’t wait to be there. I feel like I’m missing half of the fun.”
Sophia keeps telling me that this is better than a reality show. She’s right. I’m tempted to tell Uncle Matt about everything that happens. I bet he’ll be interested in writing and producing a show based on the Aldridge brothers.
“So, is that a yes, you’ll help us with the kids, and we’re going to an adult store on Saturday?”
“Yes, to both.”
“Just don’t bring Beacon along because even though I love that kid, he can be pretty embarrassing.”
“It’s just when his brothers are around,”—or my father—“But yes, let’s make this a girl’s trip.”
“And just a piece of unsolicited advice, go and kiss a few more toads before you come to Baker’s Creek,” she suggests. “Or at least go and get yourself a couple of hunk guys to buy your next cup of tea.”
“I’ll try,” I answer, without disclosing why I wouldn’t do it.
Leyla is fun. I like her a lot, but we’re not at the point of telling each other our most embarrassing moments. Telling her my plan is more than enough. Heading out to a coffee shop, a bar, or any place where I can meet a guy will bring the same results. A couple of bad dates and one of those men will be saying, “I’m just not that into you.”
I’m done with the humiliation.
“Text me when you’re on your way to Baker’s Creek. Sophia and Blaire are excited about this.”
“I hope you don’t regret it,” I say in a singsong voice. “Say hi to Carter and Arden.”
After hanging up, I notice Beacon sent me a text.
Beac: I can’t wait until Friday. I’ll call you before bedtime. Thinking of you.
We always text, but he’s never told me he’s thinking of me. My heart can’t help but flutter at his words.
Chapter Twenty-One
Grace
“I don’t understand why you’re moving to Baker’s Creek,” Dad says, staring at the boxes sitting in the trunk. I’m quite sure he’s thinking about driving my SUV to his house.
“It’s temporary, Dad,” I remind him.
I’m outside of the house, packing my car and listening to my father’s latest lecture. He’s not happy with my relocation. Dad’s very protective, but he’s gone from “I’m looking after my child” to “I should build a crystal case and keep her there forever.”
My grandfathers—Mom’s dads—say it’s karma, and they’re enjoying the show.
“You need your family with you,” he insists.
Mom presses her lips together and shakes her head. She’s about to burst into laughter at Dad’s show. This is worse than when I went