Dad sits in front of me so I have no choice but to look him in the eyes. “What about Legacy Inn?”
I shrug. “It’s not a big deal. I told Delia that I might not be able to come back this summer. She seemed cool with it. Besides, Spruce Tree and Colman’s will be happy to have me working full-time over the summer. It’s a win-win.”
Dad raises his eyebrows, arms crossed. “For who?”
The bathroom is silent as I scramble for an answer. This is the best way to keep everyone happy, especially my family. But Dad won’t want to hear that. Instead, I blurt the first thing that comes to mind. “I can’t leave you guys without a babysitter or anything.”
At this, Grace’s expression makes it clear that she might stab me with the scissors. “Babysitter?! What are we — twelve?”
Dad laughs. “She’s right, Noah. You’ve worked too hard lately. Great grades, two jobs, and helping take care of your sisters? It’s time you escaped this place, get back to Legacy.”
“Yeah, haven’t you heard? You’re looking at the new Sales Associate at Crush Clothing.” Grace measures out my sideburns, then nods, satisfied with herself. My head feels about twenty pounds lighter. “I’ll accept my fee in the morning. Lucky for you, brothers get half-off of haircuts.”
“Great,” I say. “What’s half-off of nothing?”
Another glare. “Fine. This one’s free. But only because Dad startled me.”
“Excuses, excuses.”
“Brothers.” Grace shakes her head, then twirls out of the bathroom.
I stand and run my fingers through my short hair. The truth is, I’d love to go to Legacy this summer. I turn to leave.
Dad casually extends his arm, blocking the door. “Kid. You’re going to Legacy. And it’s going to be great.”
“But—”
“Do you think this is a debate?” Dad smiles. “You need it, Noah. I’m making you do something for yourself for a change. You’ll have a great time.”
I can’t argue with Dad. A tentative feeling of relief washes over me. “Always do.”
He pats me on the shoulder. “Your mom loved it there too.”
“I remember.” My eyes sting as the happy memories threaten to come back. Dad rarely talks about Mom’s passing. She died two years ago and the loss was devastating for our family, but especially hard on him. When she got sick, it brought us all to our knees.
But we worked together. We got back up again.
There’s no point in getting emotional. I take a deep breath and regain my composure.
Dad smiles. “Do me a favor and have some fun this summer.”
“What kind of a favor is that?” I ask, rolling my eyes.
He laughs and gives me a hug. I say good night and head to my room, but instead of going to bed, I take a seat in my desk chair.
I fiddle with a stapler and an eraser. I adjust the angle of my desk lamp. Most importantly, I try to ignore the familiar feeling of dread.
Finally, there’s nothing left to shuffle around. With a forced resolve, I stare at the blank page in front of me. The pen in my hand feels like a horrible tactile reminder of the countless nights that I’ve sat in this exact position.
Someday, I hope to fill the paper with rambling pen scratchings. But tonight, my vision blurs and my brain lulls to a stop.
It’s two in the morning and I’m fighting for words that never come.
4
Bree
“He approached her with a machete raised high, ready to strike...”
I careen towards the foothills outside of Edendale. I use my teeth to tear open another fruit roll-up package, and then pop the tasty roll into my mouth. Steering with my knee, I press the button to change the radio station. I tune into NWR and wait to hear of any severe weather.
Nothing. If I’m honest, though, even a storm won’t cheer me up. With a sigh, I switch back to my audiobook. Listening to scary stories isn’t nearly as thrilling when the sun is shining and the sky is blue.
Has Isla read my note yet? Before leaving, I slipped a note under her door saying goodbye. I couldn’t face seeing her again. Her, or anyone. I snuck down to Garth and left before sunrise.
I’m halfway through my fruit roll up when a brilliant thought arrives. What if I skip out on Legacy Inn?
The thought makes me giddy.
Does anyone at Legacy Inn even know I’m coming? Or could I turn around and go back to Edendale? I could spend the summer in our big, empty house, listening to my audiobooks, watching scary movies, and chasing storms whenever I want. Some kids from Edendale High might be sticking around for the summer, and they can come over for movie nights.
This summer can be whatever I want it to be. The thought of being free of impossibly high expectations, tedious events, and late-night arguments fills me with an indescribable joy.
Then, on the left, I spot a gravel road and I take it as a sign. Before I can talk myself out of it, I lift my foot off the gas and signal to turn. A forest of thick trees, lit bright green by the sunlight, opens in front of me. In the far distance, snow covers mountain peaks.
This is it. I’m going to spend the summer doing whatever I want in Edendale.
I sit on the side of the road and smile. Another breath, and I’ll complete my U-turn and head back to Edendale. Nothing could wipe the smile from my face. Sure, it’s not like I’m spending my summer in Portugal, but a summer at home? By myself? Unlimited ‘me’ time with no responsibility? What could be better than that?
My phone pings. I check the message, hoping it’s one of my friends from Edendale.
Nope. It’s Delia.
Delia: Hi Bree! It’s Delia from the Lethargy Inn. Kate emailed your number to me this mountain. This phone doesn’t work properly so I’m not sure I have it right. Anywho. Would you be able to pick up some chanting mink on your way? Keep the recipe. Ciao!
Sounds like auto-correct had a hand in that one.
I don’t know much about Delia. My parents hired her years ago when Legacy was struggling. They describe her as a “character” and, the times I met her, I liked her. Given Legacy’s success since she joined, my parents have pretty much relinquished control and let her run it.
I sit back in my seat, contemplating the options. On the one hand, I can be “responsible” and help Delia out. On the other hand, I can pretend I never saw the message and go back to Edendale.
Then, my phone pings again.
Delia: *Legacy, *morning, *chocolate, *milk, *receipt. Darned auto-correct
If Delia’s struggling with auto-correct, she must be completely overwhelmed at Legacy Inn. She could probably use the help. It’s not a massive detour to get her some chocolate milk before heading back to Edendale. I have the whole summer, after all.
Bree: I’ll pick up some chanting mink — sorry, chocolate milk — on my way. See you soon.
I throw my phone onto the passenger seat and get into gear, turning onto the highway towards Legacy Inn.
I’ll grab the chocolate milk, make a quick stop at Legacy, and inform Delia that I won’t be staying. I’ll be back in Edendale in no time at all.
5
Noah
I park my motorcycle in the staff lot and unstrap my duffel, breathing the mountain air. Memories rush back. Hours spent swimming in the lake, exploring the forest, hiking the mountains. Sunburns, hotdogs sizzling over campfires, mosquito bites. To me, Legacy Inn and summer are synonymous, to the point where I started working here after Mom died.
I stroll up the gravel path towards the summer student cabins at the edge of the property. None of the Edendale kids have arrived yet — which means I get first pick. The A-frame cabins are arranged in a semi-circle to house the five student workers. Though, oddly, a sixth cabin has been added to the group this year.
I enter my favorite cabin — the one on the far left — and drop my bag. Over the last few years, the student positions at Legacy have boomed in popularity with the Edendale High crowd. I’m grateful to Delia for saving a
position for me every summer. This morning, I was up absurdly early thanks to radio Twin Tornadoes. Victoria and Grace were fighting over a shirt and it was the perfect excuse to get my butt out of there.
I get changed and head to the kitchen. Time to catch up with some of my favorite people.
“Guess who’s back!” I push open the kitchen door.
Fernando whips around and runs towards me, enveloping me in a bear hug. He’s around the same height as me — a solid 6’1” — but his personality makes him feel a foot taller. “Ciao! Ciao! Noah, you look fantastico. Even look like you have a bit of muscle on you.”
“Started working out,” I say. “Thought you might be getting a little old to lift the flour sacks without throwing your back out.”
Fernando laughs and gives me a fist bump, his dark eyes twinkling. “The boy gets his first muscle and thinks he’s a man.”
“I think that’s one more than you have?” I grin. “It’s good to be back, Fer. Where’s Carrie?”
“Cheeseburger tacos on the menu tonight, amico!” Fernando says. “It’ll be a big hit!”
I tie an apron around my waist. The kitchen, in true Legacy fashion, has a little bit of everything, everywhere. Fernando assembles homemade taco shells, chattering on about the Inn and the drama I missed over the winter. He delicately tries to stack one of the taco shells and it breaks. He swears loudly in Italian. There’s the spark — Fernando only gets angry when it comes to food.
“You want a hand, or were you planning to serve all of the tacos deconstructed?” I jump in to help, not wanting Carrie to see me standing idly by. Carrie is the sous-chef, but where Fernando is kind and calm, Carrie is fiery and opinionated. They work extremely well together, like two sides of the same coin — he’s the creativity and the inspiration, and she brings the practicality and action.
“One moment, amico. Delia wanted to know what we’ll be serving tonight at the Welcome Bash.” With a wink, Fernando ducks out of the kitchen. Seconds later, I hear Delia’s trademark squeal.
I carefully place a stack of taco shells onto a tray, then exit the kitchen.
“Okay, so Carrie won’t be ba— Noah!” Delia’s kind face breaks into a warm smile. With her work jeans and colorful top, she’s always reminded me of a fun aunt. She flies over to me and wraps me in a hug. “Dearest Noah, how are you?”
“Now that Fernando’s left me alone with the tacos, I’m full.”
Fernando’s face drops and I give him a wink. We burst into laughter.
“It’s great to have you back, my boy!” Delia tips her cowboy hat dramatically. “I hope you’re ready to help with this evening’s Welcome Bash. You remember how important these gatherings are for our newcomers. This year’s should be a resounding success. I’ve got jobs for everyone. Of course, seeing as Carrie won’t be here until next week—”
I freeze. “What? Carrie isn’t here?”
Delia shakes her head, while Fernando picks obsessively at a spot on his apron. “Carrie is on vacation. Did you not know?”
I shake my head. “Must’ve missed that.”
“Oh Delia.” Fernando pipes in, smiling. “You worry way too much. Noah and I are fine. Besides, we can steal one of the other student workers to fill the gaps if needed.”
I smile weakly. I left two jobs back at home, and I was hoping to relax. But if it’s only me and Fernando in the kitchen, I’ll be working three times as hard at Legacy.
“Certainly.” Delia beams, trying to seem encouraging. “But of course, the other students will be kept very busy…”
Delia trills on about the piles of work she’ll be heaping onto the unsuspecting student workers, but my mind wanders. Fernando, Carrie and I can barely cover the basics when things are busy. The thought of just two of us for a whole week, not to mention the first week of summer... It’s going to be crazy.
“I’d better get back.” I excuse myself, my voice distant.
Fernando and Delia continue their conversation and I hear another screech of delight before I enter the kitchen. “A cheeseburger taco? I LOVE IT!”
I stack another set of taco shells and think of a game plan for the week ahead. For some reason, Dad’s words from last night pop into my head. I smile sadly as I remember the “favor” I owe him.
Duty calls and fun can wait.
6
Bree
I breathe the fresh mountain air. A hint of pine and a touch of fresh grass carry through the parking lot at Legacy Inn. It really does smell better here.
My stomach grumbles. I look longingly at the bottle of chocolate milk resting in the passenger seat. It’s mid-morning, and I haven’t eaten, but I won’t be staying at Legacy for long. Fifteen minutes from now I plan to be back on the highway, blasting music, and speeding towards Edendale.
I grab the chocolate milk and head for the front door.
Whoa. Legacy Inn has changed. When I was a kid, the Inn consisted of a squat wooden building with a horrendous seventies style. Now, two guest wings protrude off of the main building, which now looks like an enormous log cabin. The planters full of flowers, the trees and the bushes really do create that “magical mountain Inn” vibe that guests rave about.
I climb the steps. The mountain breeze carries the smell of fresh bread. Birds chirp loudly in the trees. Then, something strange happens — an eerie sense of calm flows through my veins.
I must be light-headed from hunger. I shake myself off and enter.
On the outside, Legacy Inn is serene as a postcard. Inside? Different story. Staffers hustle around the event room. Tables and chairs are scattered haphazardly. The floor is littered with papers and other decorations. A lone string of fairy lights frames a window on the far wall before trailing, abandoned, into a cardboard box.
“Randy, would you be so kind as to grab some waters from the bar?” A loud voice carries above the muttering in the room. A flash of color catches my eye. A woman with a flowing top and work jeans wanders into the room.
Delia.
I jog across the room, trying to keep up with her as she floats towards the balcony.
“Delia!” I call before she can walk through the door. “I have what you’re looking for.”
“I highly doubt that, dear, but let’s see what we can do.” She turns around and her smile widens substantially. “Bree Lewis!”
“That’s right.” I’m slightly out of breath. This lady moves fast. “You summoned me for chanting mink?”
She laughs and swats at my shoulder like we’re old friends. “I’ve tried to turn that dang auto-correct off so many times… but thank you, dear. I did ask for that. We don’t need it anymore, our shipment arrived a few minutes ago.”
“Happy to help...?”
She places the bottle on a table and picks up the abandoned string of fairy lights. I open my mouth, ready to make my excuse and exit, when she cuts me off.
“Fantastic, I have a very exciting position for you.” Delia steps on a chair holding the end of the fairy lights and hands me a section to untangle. Within moments, we’re working together to string up the lights. “It’s highly desirable work, very prestigious. Your parents said you like to be where the action is. That's why I'm giving you the most exciting job!”
That gets my attention. Heart of the action? Exciting job? What could it be? My mind fills with possibilities. Maybe we need to document some astronomical event, or coordinate with celebrities, or dive for treasure in the Legacy Lake. Maybe it’ll involve storm chasing?
“You get to be...” Delia pauses for what I assume is dramatic effect. “The receptionist.”
My wonderment and curiosity are replaced with overwhelming indifference. So much for exciting. Receptionist? What could be more boring than that?
“Wow,” I say, trying to keep the sarcasm from seeping into my tone. I hand her another untangled section of lights. “What a great opportunity, Delia. Unfortunately, I have to—”
“It really is! Now, I do already have a task for you.”
<
br /> “That’s great, but you see—”
“As my receptionist, you’ll be in charge of handling various guest issues and concerns.”
“Sounds cool, but—”
“With the Welcome Bash tonight, I’m afraid I won’t have time to review the list of arrivals for tomorrow. I’m trying to make this event the best it can possibly be for our new student workers. We appreciate you all so much. Would you be able to prepare the guest list for me?”
My excuse is on the tip of my tongue, but I can’t speak the words. Delia’s asking for help again. I glance around the room and take note of the frantic action. The stress and tension are palpable.
Can I really leave now?
“Sure,” I say weakly, defeated.
“Amazing!” Delia swings her hands around, almost decapitating me with a rogue section of fairy lights. Unable to loop the string over the nail, she sighs, hops off of the chair, and tosses the lights aside. Abandoned. “And, not to be the bearer of gossip, but rumor has it that Kade Monroe will be staying this summer with his son, Cooper.”
My ears perk up. Kade Monroe is one of Montana’s most famous exports. He stars in that big action movie franchise, whatever the name is. A movie star staying at the Inn could be a game changer. The film will have directors, casting agents, a camera crew... Maybe they’ll be flitting around the property. Imagine if I get ‘discovered’ at Legacy Inn.
Get discovered for what, I don’t know. Hopefully they can tell me.
“Why don’t you grab your things from your car and meet me in reception? Unfortunately, because this all came up at the last minute, we don’t have a cabin for you. However, Vin and I are thinking of placing you in a guest room, or maybe a tent. I’ll meet you there.” She turns on her heel and floats towards the kitchen.
“No.” My voice echoes through the room.
The Complete Legacy Inn Collection: Four Sweet YA Romances Page 2