Family Ties — читать онлайн бесплатно полностью

We even rolled up the rugs and took them outside for a good beating before we dust-mopped the entire floor.

I had to chuckle to myself, though. I’d been so smug and superior when Christy’s family had split up to do “women’s work” and “men’s work,” yet my own family had done almost the same thing.

The clubhouse warmed appreciably with the screens covered and the fireplace and stoves putting out heat. Plus, all of us were working. So I wasn’t surprised when Susan and Mom nonchalantly took off their clothes and went back to cooking in just their aprons.

Erin must have said something to Mom, because she immediately went over to her.

I leaned on my dust mop and followed the conversation from their expressions and body language. Mom assured Christy that no one would mind if she kept her clothes on. But Christy wanted to be part of the family—

it was important to her—even though Mom said it wasn’t a big deal.

She finally took off her apron, removed her jeans and blouse, and reached up to pop the catch on her bra. Her fancy black lingerie raised an eyebrow or

two, but that was it. She pulled off her panties, thrust her feet into her shoes, and slipped her apron over her head.

I grinned at her nervous-but-defiant attitude, and I silently thanked Erin when she gave her a sisterly hug.

“What was that all about?” my dad asked from beside me.

I’d been so preoccupied that I hadn’t heard him come up. “Um… I sort of didn’t tell Christy we were nudists until two days ago.”

His eyebrows rose. Then he chuckled and shook his head. He started to say something but thought better of it.

“What?” I said defensively.

“No… what?” I insisted.

“Nothing. Just… you’d better get your act together, son, especially in the girlfriend department.”

I wanted to object but kept my mouth shut instead.

“Good man,” he said when he read my expression.

“And maybe it wouldn’t hurt to call home more often. Your mom’s been a little lonely with me working so much and Erin busy with exams and everything else.”

“So give her a call and tell her what’s going on in your life. I think she’d like that.”

“Good man,” he repeated with a clap on the shoulder. “Now, let’s finish up here and then get out of these clothes. I dunno ’bout you, but I’m feeling a little overdressed.