What Happens on the Cruise

88. Summer in the Country

"What... are we doing?" Ericha asked as Adam wheeled her out to the new van.

"Well, since you can't come to Alaska, we're going to go enjoy a day at the park as a family. And then afterwards, the two of us are going out to eat while Leigh and Aisha take Cerise home."

He opened the passenger door, then lifted her out of her chair and transferred her to the seat. He leaned in and stole a kiss before buckling her in.

"What about... lunch?"

"I'll have you know I'm such a good cook that I've made a picnic lunch without you even noticing."

She laughed. "Where... did you... order from?"

He grinned. "The grocery store deli. Leigh is going to stop on the way in his car." He put Ericha's chair on the lift and started it loading, then went to check Cerise's car seat.

"Here's my girl!" Leigh announced just as Adam was making sure the wheelchair was secure.

Cerise was dancing in excitement.

"Ready to go to the park, pumpkin?" Adam asked.

"Yeah!" she yelled, clapping her hands.

"Okay. Ups-a-daisy!" he said as he lifted her into the car.

***

"What do you think?" Tim asked.

Austin turned, looking over the cabin. At one time it had been a mill house, but the bed and breakfast had converted it to a cabin with high rafters and mysterious cubbies, along with modern accommodations like a microwave, mini fridge, and coffee maker. "It's nice."

"Here's the best part," Tim said, heading for the side door. He opened it to reveal a deck completely surrounded by a privacy fence. An outdoor table and chairs sat close to the door. There were deck chairs and a couple chaise-longues. And further out...

"Is that a hot tub?"

"It is," Tim answered. "We can come out here completely nude. And you can enjoy the hot tub without drawing any attention."

Austin slid his arms around Tim's waist and kissed him. "I love it. It's perfect for a little mini honeymoon."

"We've got a few hours before our dinner reservations."

Austin nodded, his expression darkening.

"Don't worry. The chef already knows your dietary restrictions and has a whole plan."

"You've thought of everything."

"I have." Tim kissed Austin hungrily. "What sounds good?"

"You suppose one of those lounge chairs would hold both our weight?"

"Hm. Only one way to find out."

***

"Yee sing?" Cerise asked as the five of them were sitting on a couple blankets with their picnic in the middle, Ericha curled in Adam's arms in one corner with the others claiming the other corners.

"Sing?" Leigh repeated, confused.

"Sing!" Cerise pointed to the playground area.

"Oh, swing! If it's okay with your mom and dad."

"I doubt we'll get more food down her," Adam opined.

"Agreed," Ericha said.

"Did you get enough, Leigh?" Aisha checked.

"Oh, yeah. I'm stuffed. Though I wouldn't mind you saving me a couple cookies."

Leigh let Cerise lead him away while Aisha wrapped a couple cookies in a clean bandana.