Page 43 of Summer Affair

“Yup,” he said, still keeping his answers short. He’d learned a long time ago that it irritated her when he didn’t give her the attention she wanted. Knowing how she treated Andrea, he loved to irritate her.

“That’s a shame.” She leaned in, lowering her voice. “You know, you don’t have to be so uptight. I bet we could have a real good time together.”

Dean took a step back, maintaining a respectful distance. “I appreciate the offer, but I’m not interested. I don’t dally with married women,” he added just to piss her off.

Amy’s eyes narrowed, and after a moment, she let out a haughty laugh. “Your loss,” she said, loud enough for several nearby guests to hear. “I can’t believe my sister works in a place like this. It’s so…tacky.”

Dean’s jaw tightened, but he kept his expression neutral. “I’m sorry you feel that way. I guess it isn’t too tacky to hold your charity events or for your weekly massage sessions?”

Amy waved a dismissive hand. “Please. This place is a joke. Just like Andrea, always settling for second best.”

“Andrea hasn’t settled,” he started, but she glanced down at her watch. His words seemed to have bounced right off her.

“I can’t waste any more time here. I’m going to be late for a very important meeting with the owners of the Destin Golf Club.” She looked around to see if the guests around them had heard, as if she was trying to impress strangers for some reason. Then she turned and walked away without another word, her heels clicking sharply against the stone pathway.

Dean felt a pang of frustration but took a deep breath to calm himself. He couldn’t let Amy’s words get under his skin. As he turned back to his work, he noticed an older couple looking sympathetically at him.

“Don’t let her get to you, young man,” the woman said kindly. “This camp is wonderful, and you’re doing a great job.”

The woman’s husband nodded in agreement. “She’s the tacky one, not this place. We’ve been back here every year since this place opened up. We have no plans to stop either.”

Dean smiled, their words lifting his spirits. “Thanks. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. How about another drink?”

The couple nodded and resumed their meal, leaving Dean with a renewed sense of purpose. He wouldn’t let someone like Amy undermine the hard work and dedication he and his colleagues put into making the camp a special place. With that thought, he continued serving, more determined than ever to make sure every guest felt welcomed and appreciated.

He was working the late shift, so half an hour before the dinner feast he changed into his costume. Monday night themes were a little tamer than weekend events. Still, Casino Night was always a huge hit.

The camp even printed Camp Bills that guests could win and then trade in for camp merchandise in the store in the lobby. Sort of like prizes at an arcade.

Dean adjusted his croupier costume, straightening the bowtie and making sure his vest was snug. Casino Night always drew a crowd, and he wanted to look the part. When he stepped out of the staff changing area, a hum of excitement filled the air. Guests were already gathering around the gaming tables set up in the large hall.

The camp had done an impressive job transforming the space. Glittering lights and banners adorned the room, giving it a festive atmosphere. The tables were covered in green felt, and the sound of shuffling cards and spinning roulette wheels echoed through the hall. Dean couldn’t help but smile as he walked over to his station at the blackjack table.

“Good evening, folks,” he greeted the guests with a warm smile. “Welcome to Casino Night. Who’s ready to try their luck at blackjack?”

The group of guests gathered around his table closer, eager to play. Dean dealt the cards with practiced ease, making small talk and keeping the atmosphere lively. He flirted with the women and chatted up the men. He enjoyed these nights, seeing the guests unwind and have fun. It was a nice change from the more hectic daytime activities.

As the evening progressed, Dean noticed Andrea making her way through the crowd. She wore a simple yet elegant dress that hugged her figure perfectly, and her hair was styled in loose waves. She looked beautiful, and Dean felt a flutter of pride knowing she was his.

Andrea caught his eye and waved, making her way over to his table. “Hey there, Mr. Wallis,” she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “How’s the night going?”

“Pretty good,” Dean replied, dealing another hand. “I didn’t know you were helping out tonight.”

“I got called in to help after McKenna called out sick.” She glanced around.

“You should join in. Maybe you’ll get lucky.” He motioned to the table.

She laughed, shaking her head. “I think I’ll leave the gambling to the experts. Besides, I have to help over there.” She waved and he glanced over and saw Zoey waving towards Andrea. “Catch you later.”

As the evening wore on, Dean really enjoyed the genuine camaraderie and joy among the guests. Everyone was having so much fun. It was nights like these that reminded him why he loved working at the camp.

Just as the night was winding down, an unexpected voice cut through the noise. “Well, if it isn’t the camp’s star employee.” Amy’s sarcastic tone drew his attention.

Dean looked up to see Amy standing at the edge of the table, her eyes glinting with mischief. She was dressed in a flashy outfit that screamed for attention, and her expression was anything but friendly.

“For someone who thinks this place is tacky, you sure do end up here a lot,” Dean retorted, his tone laced with kindness to make his point.

“Hardly,” she replied, flipping her hair over her shoulder. “I’m meeting some potential investors here.” She looked around quickly. “This place looks like a cheap imitation of a real casino to me.”