I had no idea that he cared about me. All he’s showed me is indifference. I was sure that I don’t matter to him.
I lean hard against the wall as I listen to their conversation.
“You should talk to him. I think we both should.”
“I would if he’d stop hating me for one second.”
“He doesn’t hate you.”
“He does and he has all the reason to do so. I’m the worst father ever.”
“Xavier, that’s not true. He doesn’t?—”
I turn the corner—not able to control myself—and watch them stiffen. Mom gasps and Dad slips on a cold mask thatdoesn’t let me read him, but his eyes say everything. They soften in relief and his shoulders loosen up.
“Heath, you’re home,” Mom rushes forward and hugs me. “Thank God.”
I’m slowly learning that Mom loves hugging me—it’s unavoidable. The way she sees me and then barrels right at me as if she can’t control herself. And then she hugs me and the emptiness inside me starts filling with warmth. I never thought it’d fill up with anything, much less getting a hug from my mother.
On instinct, I lie my palm on her back.
“You’re safe,” she murmurs.
Before I can interrupt someone else speaks up.
“You could’ve showed up three hours ago. Your mother worked hard to prepare dinner,” Dad’s tone is accusing, but it contradicts with the way he watches me as if I matter to him.
Why didn’t I notice this before?
I say nothing as I separate myself from my mother and look at the island. It’s filled with equipment and ingredients needed to make cupcakes.
“What’s happening here?” I arch an eyebrow, fully acting like I know nothing.
Mom jumps with the reply. “I’m making blueberry muffins.”
I nod.
“I’ve just started, maybe you could help me make them?” she asks, eyes full of hope. “Your father has work to do so you can keep me company while he attends meetings and phone calls.”
Dad slants his head and stares at her. They share a quiet look that speaks a thousand words.
Then, he turns to me and says, “Keep her company and don’t be a menace.”
I roll my eyes. “I’m not a fucking menace.”
He narrows his eyes. “Avoid cursing in front of your mother.”
I glare. “How about you?—”
“Xavier, leave. We’ll be fine.” Mom says in a strong voice.
Dad sighs and looks at Mom with a defeated look. “After this, you’re sleeping. Tomorrow is an important day.”
I frown. “What’s tomorrow?”
Mom smiles. “Nothing.”
Before I can ask Dad, he leaves in a hurry.
