I snicker in response, resenting his assumptions but unable to really persuade him otherwise.
“They do, it’s just…hard on them is all. You turned out so different than they expected, and I can’t say it’s right that they had any of those small-town expectations for you, but I know everything they do is out of love. If you need something, even if it’s just to talk, I’m here.”
How about I need you to just shut up, take off your shirt, and use your mouth for something other than smart words?
“Thanks,” I reply, realizing that as much as I hate what he said, he’s at least looking out for my family and me.
And that only makes me want him more.
Garrett pulls into the long dirt driveway leading to his childhood home, which surprises me. Irene had plans when we were growing up. First, she wanted to be a lawyer, then an astronaut, then some type of food scientist, and in the end, she never did leave, I guess.
“Do you think she’s going to be happy to see me?” I say, my voice laced with fear.
He pulls to a stop, puts the car in park, and looks over at me. “There’s only one way to find out.”
