The coach goes over more information, but I'm barely paying attention. The options I have are very few. I'll have to get a second job, which means even less time with the kids. Being a single mom feels like an impossible task, and I'm beginning to wonder if I'm cut out for it.
"Again, thank y'all for coming. We're going to have a great baseball season against some pretty tough teams. I know these boys can do it, though." He pauses for a second, "guys, y'all can grab some snacks my wife made, and start thinking about some fundraising you want to do."
Well, that part completely flew over my head. At least, we'll have that to fall back on. But I'm not sure how much they'll actually raise. Times are hard for everyone.
Standing I make my way to the tables Coach and his wife are sitting at. There's a signup sheet for snacks after games. I silently groan because that is more money. Not that the boys don't deserve it, but this is...a lot.
I pull a check out of my wallet so I'm prepared when it's my turn. Now I just have to figure out how I'll come up with the rest of the money.
"Dad," I call out after the kids have gone to bed. He doesn't answer, and I'm beginning to wonder if he called it a night as well. He's the resident night owl, so it would be weird.
"Yeah, Bug?" He comes into the living room from the attached garage.
"Can you watch the kids later than usual the next couple of weeks?" I have my laptop resting on my knees, staring at the site in front of me.
"Sure," he shrugs and takes a seat on the sofa beside me, "what's up?"
"I'm going to bartender school." It's the quickest way I know to make fast cash. If I can find a job at a busy bar, I'll be able to pay for Isaac's baseball, and Abby's summer volleyball, in no time.
"Why?" I can hear the disapproval in his voice. But it's not going to deter me. "If you need money, I can give it to you."
"I know," I lean my head against his shoulder, "this is something I need to do on my own."
He doesn't say anything for a few moments, and I worry I've upset him more than I realize. Finally, he sighs. "If that's what you feel you need to do, I'll support you."
"Thanks, Dad." The class isn't too expensive. I only hope I can find a job quickly after I'm certified.
1
Eric
Lisa and Delilahare motioning me to come inside the bar. My break is over, and they need help. If only I could get my mom off the phone.
"Are you listening to me?" Mom’s voice is loud in the mostly quiet parking lot.
"Yes, Mom," I shake my head and hold up my hand, hoping they understand I need a few more minutes, "I'm listening."
"I should have his schedule by the end of next week."
Wait. What? Maybe I wasn't listening as closely as I should have been. "What schedule?"
"I knew it," she huffs. Great, now I've pissed her off. She won't be mad long, but she will make comments about it for the next few days. "Your brother has summer practices. I know it's early, but I'll need your help getting him there and back. Can you do that for me?"
Wow. Talk about getting started early. There's still a month and a half of school left. "Yeah, it shouldn't be a problem."
"It's all during the day, and I know you work mostly nights," she pauses for a second. "If you can't just let me know, and I'll figure something out."
"You don't have to do that, Mom." I lean against the brick wall. The air is thick and I have a feeling it's going to rain soon. It's probably why the bar is packed tonight, even though it's during the week. "I can get him there."
"Thank you," she breathes a sigh of relief. "If he keeps joining activities, I'll have to get a second job to support them."
"Don't worry about that." If she needs anything, I've got it. I know she doesn't like it, but this is one of those times she needs to push aside her pride. Maybe I should text Cameron and ask him if she's already paid for this summer conditioning thing. "I'll handle whatever comes up."
"Who's the parent here? I'm supposed to take care of the two of you, not the other way around."
"You already took care of me, Mom. Let me repay the favor." It's a battle she won't let go, but she doesn't turn down the money I shift to her account every month. "My break is over. I need to get back to work."
"Okay. Call me tomorrow?"
