The Harper Brothers: All Bets Are Off (Wattpad Version)

A birthday and a summer job

Marty

Mine and my dad's birthday arrived. Ma threw us a joint birthday party since we share the same birthday. I didn't mind since it was Dad.

Ma invited the family and my brothers' girls and had a cookout. Uncle Gabe grilled while Reese baked my cake.

I lifted the cooler lid and grabbed a pop as Val approached me.

"Dad said you'll be working with us this summer."

I closed the lid and cracked the pop can open. "I figure I could learn about construction while earning some money. Why?"

"Because you'll be working under me."

I arched my brow. "Like my supervisor?"

"That's what it means, dumbass." Val rolled his eyes.

"It doesn't matter to me." I shrugged.

"Good. Make sure you report to me on Monday morning." Val turned and walked away.

I knitted my brows and shook my head. I was hoping to work with Dad, but we don't always get what we want. If we did, Bailey would be here.

I strolled over to the picnic table where Romeo and Pat were sitting and popped a squat.

"What's wrong with you?" Pat asked me.

"Besides Bailey not being here and Val being my boss, nothing." I shrugged.

"I'm sure it won't be that bad," Romeo said.

"I tried to call Bailey, but she didn't answer," I said.

Romeo and Pat glanced at each other.

"I'm sure Bailey will call you," Romeo said.

I leaned on the picnic table and ran my hand through my hair.

"You said that Bailey had grueling dance practices," Pat said.

"Yeah." I sighed.

As I sat with Pat and Romeo, I wallowed in my self-induced pity. Someone placed a cupcake in front of me and shoved a phone in front of my face. I glanced at Rafe with Reese with smiles.

"Marty?"

My face snapped to the cellphone screen as Bailey smiled.

"Bailey?" I took the phone from Rafe and held it in my hand.

"Sorry I didn't answer when you called. I was in the middle of a routine."

"It's okay."

Bailey grinned.

"Hey, you dyed your hair."

"Yeah, it was a requirement for the summer program."

"It looks nice."

"Thanks."

"So, I got a job working with my dad and brother this summer."

"That's great."

"Yeah."

"Happy birthday, Marty."

"Thanks, Bailey." I offered Bailey a small smile.

"I need to get back to practice."

"Okay."

Bailey logged off. I handed the phone back to Rafe.

"Now, will you stop pouting? You're turning into Pat," Rafe said.

"Hey!" Pat said.

"Your fault for pouting," Romeo said.