Summer of Second Chances - Andrea Hurst Page 0,112

Logan said. “My dad sprang into action and pushed a window out. Him and the pilot managed to climb out on the wing carrying life jackets. My dad said his whole life flashed before him during those twenty or thirty minutes sitting there in the freezing fog watching the plane sink right out from underneath them.” Logan let up a deep sigh. “My fight with him before he left could have been the last thing we ever said to each other.”

“But it wasn’t,” Shelby said, reassuring him. “He’s home and he’s safe. He survived.”

Logan shook his head. “It’s a miracle, and I don’t say that lightly. They ended up floating in freezing currents. My dad couldn’t feel his arms or legs. Just as he was about to give up, a small yacht approached. Those people saved them and contacted the Coast Guard. My dad was wrapped in blankets, shivering like crazy. The couple’s black lab pressed itself between my dad’s legs. He hugged its body, absorbing the dog’s warmth and comfort.”

Shelby felt tears coming down her cheeks. “Dogs always know where they are needed.”

Logan looked at her. “He finally told us he’d been afraid of dogs since he was a kid and was chased by one on his way to school. Not anymore, he said.”

“Was he injured?”

“His sternum was bruised from the impact and he had a few minor injuries.” His voice quivered as he spoke. “He told us his computer, his papers, everything that he thought was important to him were in that plane as it sank. And yet, he realized when he hit that freezing cold water and feared he might die, he realized that none of that meant anything.” Logan’s voice caught in his throat “He told us his love for my mother and me and my brother Gabe was all that really mattered."

Shelby pulled him into her arms. "I’m here for you,” she said. He trembled in her arms and she stroked his hair.

People were coming and going from the lookout, speaking loudly, and Shelby suggested they go back to the car for some privacy.

Logan stared out the front window. "I've always wanted my dad to care. I've always wanted us to be a priority, but before I didn't think it was possible. It's like he's a different person, one I never knew.” He turned and smiled at her. “Not only that, he's told Gabe to bring Mutt back to our house and he’s letting Gabe keep him.”

“Gabe must be so happy,” Shelby said.

Logan nodded. "I also talked to my dad about you."

"Really? Thank you."

"Of course,” he said, stroking her cheek.

Shelby realized this was a pivotal turning point for Logan and his family. She wondered if it would affect where they would live, how Logan would feel about her, and if everything would change. But most of all, she was so happy for Logan, his mother, his brother, and little Mutt.

"My dad has agreed to help you with your mother. He said you have legal rights, and if you want to come to the house, he'll go over them with you. My mother said you can come by later today if you'd like. She's making a special dinner for my dad and invited you. Afterwards you and my dad can talk.”

"Are you sure everyone is up to a visitor? I can wait,” she said.

"I'm sure," said Logan. "We're all sure. My dad knows how important you are to me."

It was a relief to hear Logan say that.

His eyes met hers. “Thank you for listening.”

“Anytime,” she said. “I’m happy to.” By the look of the sun waning in the sky, Shelby encouraged Logan to turn around and get back for the important dinner tonight.

On the way home, he relayed some of the family’s plans, easing Shelby’s mind even more.

"You won't believe this," Logan said, "but my dad has agreed for us to live up at the lake, and let Gabe go to school here. We’ll use the city home more for short trips and special occasions. He said he can work anywhere and he's going to tell his firm he's going to do a lot less travel, if any. I think he’s in no hurry to get on a plane again."

"I bet," Shelby said.

"Enough about me,” Logan said. “Any more word from your mom?”

"Not yet, but everybody's been helping me figure things out. Mindy sent me information on emancipation, and I'm hoping your dad can tell me more about temporary custody. Joann said we'll just need to