JAKE
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So, I don’t actuallyhave a plan.
I’ve dated a lot and have no issues wining and dining a beautiful woman.That part isn’t a problem.What I mean is I don’t have a fucking plan to navigate this hurdle between Caylee and me.
I realize if I want to keep seeing her, and have her forgive me, I need to say something.
But I can’t.
She’s a relative.That’s more than I’ve told anyone.You see, in my family, you don’t say anything.You keep what happens between us behind closed doors, and that includes medical people and officials.
Yup, I am very aware of the irony.
Thing is, when those words, threats and instructions have been pounded into you as a kid, said over and over, you do as you are told.
They become the rules which you play by.
You live by.
Even when you can see the absurdity of it.
Parents and family units have enormous power.Add in the guilt of losing a sister...
I shut up.
I do what I need to protect my remaining family.
And pay the cost personally every day.
After Liam triggered me this afternoon, I almost canceled the date, but there was no way I was going to miss this chance.My second chance, but I know it will be my last.
I can’t fuck it up.
I don’t know exactly what I’m asking her and the likelihood of Caylee telling me to take a flying leap is extremely high.
Which makes me the stupidest man on the planet.
I get her settled in my black Chevrolet, and we make small talk all the way to the restaurant.When we’re seated and facing one another, it’s like someone handed me the microphone.Everyone is waiting for me to speak.
Crap.
Still no plan.
I’m going to mess this up.
“Should we order?”I pick up the menu, and Caylee hesitates for a moment, then does the same.
We order.
And now the clock has run out, big boy.
“This place looks good,” she says, being nice.It’s more than I deserve.
“It’s my first time, so if it’s not great, we can blame Liam.”I sip my water.
“You told Liam we were having dinner?”Caylee asks surprised.“That explains why Cole called me.Five times.”
