Bellinger Sisters, #1
It Happened One Summer
by Tessa Bailey
Contents
Chapter Twelve
Overview
Rosie and Dominic complete Armie’s “Mother Nature” teamwork assignment by building a campsite, rediscovering partnership and ease. While working, they share vulnerable details, revisit dreams of a bigger home and Rosie’s restaurant, and confront their stalled communication. A near-intimate moment is derailed by Armie’s antics, but their shared laughter signals real progress.
Summary
At twilight in a nature preserve, Rosie and Dominic tackle Armie’s homework: set up a campsite together. Banter about past fights (including Rosie’s Twilight phase) stirs up long-dormant passion and reminds them of how conflict once forged closeness. They collaborate on the tent, exchanging small talk to rebuild comfort.
Prompted to share, Rosie admits to petty workplace mischief, making Dominic laugh and lightening the mood. Dominic reveals he’s been sorting Marine commendations and old photos, and they briefly touch on the idea of a bigger home—an awkward topic that heightens tension. They continue with tasks—fire ring, hammock, and a DIY wind chime—finding an easy rhythm that feels intimate.
Dominic encourages Rosie’s restaurant dream, linking it to the sense of “home” he clung to while deployed. Rosie asks him to open up more about his service. A spider scare sends Rosie into his arms, and the moment softens into obvious mutual attraction as they finish the wind chime and edge toward a kiss.
Discussing the present, Dominic asks Rosie to voice her frustrations. Rosie admits it feels like he “never came back” and that she lost her best friend; Dominic counters that he’s here and wants to face it together. Just as they’re about to give in to desire, Armie bursts in with two women and commandeers their tent, turning the charged moment into laughter.
Walking back to the parking lot, Rosie and Dominic share giddy amusement that feels like “old times.” Dominic, still yearning, takes their teamwork, honesty, and shared laughter as signs of progress, sending Rosie home while hoping to reunite for good.
Who Appears
- Dominic VegaHusband working through therapy; fosters teamwork, shares Marine past, encourages Rosie’s dreams, and seeks renewed intimacy.
- Rosie VegaWife separated but trying; opens up about work, fears, restaurant goals, and missing her best friend in Dominic.
- ArmieFree-spirited therapist; assigns the campsite exercise and later comically commandeers the tent with companions.