“Just wanted to make sure you were okay.”
“You could’ve just texted me.”
Dad grunted. “You know I’d rather hear your voice.”
“Aww. You’re missing me, big guy?”
“The house is too quiet without you here.”
“Maybe Cullen could use a phone call.”
“Your mom’s on with him now. We drew straws, and I got you.”
“You got the better end of the deal, ya know.”
“I do.” He laughed. “Anyway, I’ll let you go. I’m sure Allison could use your help.”
Dad had loved Allison the one time he met her but could instantly tell she was a little uptight. To a parent, she was a dream roommate. She didn’t like to party…ever. She was too disciplined and organized to let a night out with friends undo everything she worked so hard for.
“I’ll text you tomorrow.”
“Call me tomorrow.”
I groaned. “Fine. Fine. I’ll call you tomorrow if I have time because I have watch.”
“Then you won’t have time.”
I snorted. “Dad, the navy is very different from when you were here. I’ll have my phone with me.”
“When I was in, we had to write letters or wait in line for the phone. You’re all spoiled and don’t know how good you have it.”
I rolled my eyes. “Is this where you’re going to tell me about having to walk a mile to school in the snow?” I teased him.
“Shut up, kid. Go help Allison and tell her hello.”
“Bye, Dad,” I said, drawing out his name.
“Later, sweetheart. Love you.”
“Love you more.” I smiled at the phone, staring at his photo on the screen as I tapped disconnect.
“Holy fuck!” Allison yelled from the living room.
I ran out of the bathroom, grabbing my pants off the counter and trying to put them on without falling on my face. They were halfway up my legs when I rounded the corner, finding Austin and Allison staring at each other. I backed up a few steps, peeking around the corner, spying on them.
“Um, hey,” Austin said to Allison, giving her a small wave. “I’m Austin.”
“Well, fuck me,” she muttered, sounding more like me than her usual, more reserved self.
“Excuse me?” he asked, blinking, with his forehead wrinkled and confusion all over his face.
“You’re the bet. Holy shit. What are you?” she whispered, stepping back like she needed more space to take in every last of inch of the man.
He tilted his head, gawking at her. “What am I?”
She nodded. “Yeah, man. You’re not a normal-sized human being.”
He almost choked. “I’m normal.”
