Cordelia

chapter 42 ~beach

"Hey, we're not running on infinity time here," I quip as he trails behind me like a lost puppy.

"Are you the designated bag carrier today?" he queries, and I shoot him a glare that could freeze a volcano.

"Ugh, I'm so over this," Connor whines, as we navigate the aisles of the grocery store. It's the eve of Thanksgiving, and Samuel needs some last-minute items. He opted out of joining us because he's knee-deep in a culinary project that apparently requires a two-day lead time.

Thanksgiving dinner is happening at my place this year since I can't face the awkwardness of going to my parents' house after the whole "mystery attacker" incident a few months back. We still haven't figured out who it was, and I can't shake the feeling that they might be lurking around, so I insisted on company for grocery shopping. I didn't spill the beans about the real reason, but they agreed to tag along without too much fuss.

After what feels like a marathon through the store, we finally make it to the parking lot and head back to my place.

Peeking through the window, I catch sight of Lee and Samuel in the kitchen. I do a double-take as it looks like Samuel is actually teaching Lee something. I can't help but smile and shake my head in disbelief. I mean, just the other day, I was telling Samuel he couldn't cook to save his life, and now he's giving lessons?

We step inside, and immediately, I hear Samuel's voice booming, "Everett, one of these days, you're going to burn the house down."

"Alright, alright, I'll leave the oven to you," Everett retorts.

"With your temper and cooking skills, you'll be auditioning for 'Hell's Kitchen' in five years, give or take," Samuel deadpans.

"What makes you think he'll stick around that long?" I interject.

Their heads swivel towards me. "You came!" they chorus, completely ignoring my question. "Dinner will be ready in 10."

I head upstairs to change out of my grocery-getting attire. Lately, I've been daydreaming about a beach vacation. I miss the ocean. It's been too long since I've dipped my toes in the water.

"Dinner!" Samuel's voice calls, pulling me back to reality. I head downstairs.

Tacos. Samuel made tacos. My favorite. I nod enthusiastically in response to Lee's question about whether I like them, my mouth too full to speak.

We devour the tacos, and then I decide to drop the bomb about my beach getaway plans. "Guys, I've been thinking," I begin.

All eyes turn to me. "I want to go to the beach."

"Can you? How's your leg?" Connor asks, concern etched on his face.

"I feel fine," I assure them, glancing at Samuel for confirmation.

"Yeah, you're fine," he confirms.

"by the way where will we stay?" Connor inquires.

"I'll make a few calls," Lee replies, already reaching for his phone.

I smile in relief that we can go there, I guess it's time to pack my things.