“So that is why you are here,” my mother said loud enough to pull me away from my thoughts.
I hadn’t heard a word she said, but judging from her smile, I was sure I’d find out without having to ask again.
“I see.”
The sliding door to the patio opened and out walked Joe and Walker, both talking up a storm. Mom smiled while I shifted in my seat. Walker looked like he was walking on cloud nine.
“God, I can’t believe I’m actually going to meet him,” he said, clapping his hands together. “Thanks for showing me all that stuff. What a rush,” Walker said, coming and sitting down beside me.
“He should be here any minute,” Joe said, glancing at his watch.
“Excuse me, but I need to use the washroom,” I said, standing up.
“Sure thing. Just make a left down the hall from the kitchen door. It’s the first door on your right.” Joe smiled, opening the door for me.
I pulled my phone from my pocket once I had locked the door to the bathroom and quickly texted Lorelai. I’d told her I’d let her know what was up the moment I found out.
* * *
Aurora: So, Penelope’s big surprise…she’s married to a man whose son is a Dominator
Lorelai: WHAT???? Aurora, what are you talking about?
Aurora: My mother married a man who’s the father to one of the Vancouver Dominators
Lorelai: Oh god. Your brother must be beside himself. Have you met him yet? Who is it? I’ll have to tell Phil.
Aurora: Nope, have not met him yet. He is apparently on his way over.
Lorelai: What’s your new surprise stepfather like?
Aurora: Little different from the others. He lives over in the ritzy part of Vancouver. My car looks like a sore thumb in the driveway. Oh, and he actually wears full shirts, not wife beaters. Penelope has officially stepped up. He made drinks for everyone instead of standing over Penelope and demanding she do it. It’s like an alternate reality.
Lorelai: Sounds like a complete 360.
Aurora: You think? Something has got to be wrong with the entire picture.
Lorelai: Maybe she has changed.
Aurora: Do you remember Penelope? LOL
Lorelai: Your mom, despite her faults, all of her faults, deserves to be with a decent guy, you know.
* * *
I tapped the side of my phone as I recounted the steps of the events so far tonight. I hadn’t been able to remember anything being out of place in this picture, except for my mother.
* * *
Aurora: I’m sure the whole thing will blow up once this guy doesn’t treat my mother like trash.
Lorelai: Maybe she is looking for a change.
* * *
I heard some footsteps in the hallway and a murmur of voices. I bet my new stepbrother was here.
* * *
