5
571 Words
“It’s hard to walk on water when they’re constantly pulling me under,” I joked.
“You’re the big brother they never had. For some, you’re the father they never had.”
“Woah, woah, woah, ain’t no one trying to be a daddy,” I said with a laugh. “I’m just hanging out with people who share my same hopes and
dreams. We all want to be something cool when we grow up.”
“Good deflection, but one of these days I’m going to learn your story,” she said.
I winked. “I wouldn’t count on it.”
“You like being a man of mystery.”
“I do. It works great with the ladies too. If you didn’t have that ring on your finger, I’d be running my game on you.”
“Liar. You’re a flirt.”
“I am. I feel like if you’re going to do something, you should do it well. I take my flirting game very seriously.”
“Like your photography?” she asked. “Did you get some good shots?”
I flashed her a smile. “I think I did, but I haven’t had time to review them. The kids wanted me in the water.”
“And you always do what they want?” She laughed.
I shrugged. “They’re good kids. I like hanging out with them.” “Why?”
“What do you mean? I’m not a pervert.”
She slapped my shoulder. “No one thinks you are a p*****t. Why do you like hanging out with a motley group of prepubescent boys?”
I thought about it for a second. “When I was their age, I had older brothers. They picked on me and my little brother, but for the most part, we were a tight crew. These kids don’t have that. Their dads are always working. Most of the kids that hang out down here are only children or the oldest. I feel like an older brother.”
“Well, I know I appreciate it and I know those boys sure do. You keeping an eye on them down here is also a big help for those mamas that are trying to get stuff done. They can get themselves into trouble in a hurry.”
I flashed her another grin. “Like I said, I used to be one of them. I know how quick and easy it is to find trouble, and when there’s a crew of them, trouble comes looking for them.”
“I left some snacks in the picnic basket,” she said and got to her feet. “I’m headed back. Try not to let them drag you into trouble.”
“I can’t make any promises.”
The boys were talking and eating the sandwiches she had made. That was another reason I loved being in the village. The mamas all looked out
for the kids. This place was truly the epitome of what it meant when people said it takes a village to raise a child.
“Mr. Channing!” one of them yelled. “Let’s play!”
The ball came my way. I dodged it, rolled to the side, and grabbed it before jumping to my feet. “All right you little punks, is it going to be six against one?”
They burst into wild laughter before rushing me.
- Writer
