Billie
it’s my birthday
Keller
Arrangements have already been made, and this is important to the company and the family. You can figure something out.
I read it, can’t come though, sorry
Keller
Why is that?
I have a fear of birthday dinners. Sorry
Does it make sense? No. Neither does turning your daughter’s birthday dinner into a business meeting.
I laugh to myself when I send it. The worry I had still lingers in the back of my mind, but I don’t appreciate how he’stalking to Billie. Younger Grant, who was disappointed by his father’s absence at every birthday party, can’t help but mock the situation.
Keller
This isn’t something to joke about, son. It’s an important dinner and I want to introduce you to some of my business partners. You must be there whether you want to or not.
I don’t have to do anything. The financial stability of being his son influences some of my decisions. The fact that I’m entertaining this conversation is proof. But he can’t physically force me into something I don’t want to do.
Billie already said she won’t be able to make it, and I won’t be able to either. If it’s so important, you might want to reschedule for another date
Keller
A date hasn’t been decided yet.
Great! So host it later, after Billie’s birthday, because she’s busy. Right?
Billie
i would prefer if i didn’t have to reschedule my trip, yeah
See? Neither of us can come. Why don’t you and Locke handle this dinner yourselves then?
Keller
Grant. This is important.
I know. You can figure it out, I’m sure. Good luck
I mute the chat again, lock my phone screen, toss it onto the table next to me. Less than ten minutes of conversation and the McCarthys have drained me of energy and motivation.
Getting my car detailed or any other financial assistance could guilt me into attending some family events, but I refuse to play a part in ruining her birthday.
I don’t owe my father anything. I don’t owe Billie anything, either. But maybe, if I ever need it down the line, Billie will remember this and pay me back. Until then, I’ll consider this as younger me finally being the one to reject Keller, and not the other way around.
nine
LILIANA
April in Bostonis one of the most irregular months of the year. Some days start with a chill, one that tempts me to press my freshly brewed coffee to my face before drinking it. Sometimes, by the afternoon, sweat clings to every part of my body. Occasionally it’ll get colder than anticipated, and I’ll wrap myself as tightly into my sweater as I can.
When I walked into my Monday lecture, every button on my cardigan was fastened. Stepping out of class, there’s a switch to the heat of evening. Perspiration is gathering in the creases of my skin and my sweater has been stuffed into my tote bag.
