The Summer with Him

I hated the fact my mom decided to send me away yet again to my cousins for the summer.  But with everything she is going through with my brother I guess I understand.

It was going to be just like any other summer.  We hang out at the summer condo and have what she calls fun, except now she has the baby which means it won’t be any fun at all.

I was standing on the deck knowing the answer to my question. “Can I go swimming in the ocean yet?”

“It’s still cold.” Britt explained “but you could go to the hot spring.  It’s actually quite fun.”

That wasn’t a bad idea actually.  I went and got ready to go.

“Where are you off to?” Joe asked.

“The hot spring, Britt suggested it since it’s still too cold for the ocean.” I explained.

“Oh ok, have fun but be safe.” Joe said.

I love it when he cared, especially when he’s been there since my father left.

I got to the spring and there were a few older couples, which I thought was cute.  I was getting settled, when I heard him, Max Daniels, my worst nightmare.

I almost wanted to disappear, but that was definitely not possible.

He plopped down right next to me.  What a surprise.

“Did you miss me?” He asked sarcastically.

I was about to answer when I saw my summer best friend and totally ignored him.

“OMG! Chelsea, how have you been?”  I asked her excitedly.

“Ok, how was it back home at boot camp?” She asked me.

“You have no id-“ I started but quickly was pulled away by max.

“I was talking to you and you blew me off.” He interrupted.

I was annoyed but it was Max, so I knew it was coming.  Besides Chelsea was already moved on to talk to another guy who I’m guessing will be her summer bf.

“Well, Max.  I saw someone who actually is more interesting than you.”  I said.  I would have been more interested in those rocks if they could talk.

“Actually I was expecting you.” I said sarcastically.

“Oh, I knew it.” He said.

I went to leave when suddenly I saw him in front of me again.  “Whoa, where are you off to?”

“Well, I was going to head home since it seems to be getting a little crowded.” I said.

“Already, it was just getting fun. But if you insist, I will walk you back.” He said “after you.”

I didn’t want him to follow me but I knew trying to ignore or deny him was a waste of time.  We walked and he tried to talk to me but I just wasn’t into it.

We reached my condo and the folks were outside with little Sophie.

“Hello father.” Max said coldly to Joe.

“Max” was all he could say.

“So Jess, what are you up to?” Britt asked me.

She was trying to lighten the mood.  The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.

Then that was Max’s cue to start “Well Jess and I were going to meet some friends on the beach.  If that’s ok with you two.”

Oh great, just another one of his schemes.  Usually I would love it, but I don’t think I’m in the mood.