The Fourth Catch

Chapter 33: Father, Daughter Day

Beth sighed as she glanced out the window.  Unfortunately, mother nature had another idea for them while on their trip.  It had been raining most of the day, and there were also some chances for rain tomorrow too.  This meant Beth and her father weren't going to get on the lake fishing like she wanted.  "I'm sorry sweetie.  I know you were looking forward to catching some fish."  Anthony said as he walked over sitting down next to Beth.  Beth looked over at her dad.  "Maybe it will clear up later so we can still go."  Anthony smiled.  One thing he loved about Beth.  His daughter always looked on the brighter side of things.  "There is always that chance.  Until then.  There are always fun things we can do inside."  "Like what?"  "Well..  There are some board games I know Vic and Levi have or some cards.  There's a few movies we can check out.  We could have a movie marathon."  Anthony suggested.

A smile formed on Beth's face at the suggestion.  "Can we play a game then watch a movie?"  "Of course we can."  Anthony stood up.  "They have Monopoly, Sorry, Trouble.."  He said listing off some games.  Bethany tilted her head thinking.  "Trouble and Sorry."  Anthony nodded.  "I won't be long."  Bethany continued watching it rain while her dad went to grab the games, then returning a few moments later.  Bethany followed her dad sitting up at the table.  "Which game are we playing first?"  Beth glanced at both games before deciding.  "Sorry."  She answered.

"Are you excited for school starting in September?"  Anthony asked after it had been silent for awhile as they played the game.  Anthony liked it best when Melanie was around with him and Beth.  For some reason, Anthony found it hard at times to start a conversation with his daughter.  It was easier with Mel's help.  Depending on what they were doing.  Some days were better than others.  But for Melanie, it just came natural for topics to talk about with Beth.  Most likely because she was around her more.  She knew their daughter better since they were with each other all day.  It was strange how at the beginning, Melanie was the one who had worried about forming a bond with their daughter, because of leaving her the first few days.  And Beth being able to sense that.  But with work taking him away from them most days.  It felt like to Anthony, that he was the one who couldn't form the proper bond with Beth.  And some days, though Anthony knew it was his job, he regretted taking on such an occupation that took him away so much from his family.  Of course, when he decided to enroll in the police academy.  Anthony didn't ever think he would end up becoming apart of such an amazing family that he didn't want to ever be away from.

Beth glanced up at her father after she finished taking her turn.  Giving a shrug of her shoulders for an answer.  "I don't know.  There isn't going to be anybody I'll know."  Anthony grinned slightly.  He had a very good feeling with his daughter's personality, she would make friends very quickly.  Beth was opposite of him.  Having more Melanie's personality when it came to meeting people.  She was quite outgoing and could be very chatty.  Depending the topic.  Of course, Anthony knew some people might find his daughter too bubbly.  But that was one of the reasons he loved Beth.  She in general was a very happy person.  Smart and caring already at her age.  And always managed to be positive no matter what.  Beth also seemed to see the good in everyone, and didn't see bad in anything.  Always giving people chances.

"That may be true at first.  Nobody knows anyone when they first meet.  But I'm certain you will.  It may take a few days to figure things out, learn the new faces.  But eventually, it all turns out perfectly fine.  Even if you don't think it will."  Bethany hesitated a little.  "What if I don't?"  She asked.  Anthony could see concern in her eyes at the thought of school.  Perhaps it wasn't the best idea to bring up.  He shook his head.  "I don't think you'll have that problem.  Anyone would be crazy to not want to know you and be your friend.  You're smart, funny.  Caring.."  Anthony began listing a few of his earlier thoughts, giving Beth a reassuring smile.  Beth smiled back in return feeling a little better.  "I guess you're right."  Anthony grinned.  "Of course I'm right."  He teased her.  Saying the same words she said earlier.  Beth giggled.  "Mom said she can take me shopping."  "I'm sure she will love that and so will you.  Your mother has been looking forward, going shopping with you.  I can come with too."  Anthony however seemed hesitant in saying so.  He didn't want Beth getting too excited then have to skip out because of work.  Or if it was something only she and Mel planned together.  He didn't want to be in the way.  "If work doesn't take me away that is.  I'd love to come."  He added.  Beth nodded excitedly.  "Yes!  You can come too!  I want you to come!  Please?"  She pleaded.  "Shopping..  And ice cream!  What can be better?"  Anthony chuckled.  "How about shopping, ice cream, and spending a day with you?"  Anthony winked.  Beth's face showed amusement.  "Spending the day with me is a big plus."  Beth agreed.  Anthony chuckled at his daughter's comment, shaking his head.  She definitely has my spunk.  He thought.