“Wow, what a transition.”
“Well, you didn’t seem interested in discussing Tanner’s dick size.”
“And that led you to asking about my parents?” I eye her, sipping my ice coffee.
“My brain’s a weird place. Did you tell them?”
“Yeah. I broke the news last Sunday after breakfast. I don’t know if my dad is thrilled I’m living with a guy, but like you said, I don’t have a choice in the matter. He did seem more up for the idea once I asked if I could store some of my things in their basement.”
“Wait, why?”
“Because my dad is traditional and thinks men and women shouldn’t live together before they’re married. One of the most liberal people I know, but he can’t get behind me shacking up with a guy he’s never even met. Especially one who is six years older than me, but once I explained I didn’twant to have to move in a bunch of boxes that I’ll never unpack, he calmed down a bit.”
“No, why aren’t you bringing all your stuff?”
“Because it’s a very temporary solution, and I don’t think I’ll need all of my furniture because Tanner’s place is mostly furnished.”
“So you aren’t bringing anything? Not even your art?”
“No, he already has stuff on the walls; he doesn’t need my artwork crowding up the place. I think I have to bring my bed, but I’m not sure. It’s part of the reason I’m going over there after work today. I’ll figure out what I need, and then I’ll bring just the essentials to get me through six months or so.”
Her mouth drops into a frown, and she studies me.
“Anyway, I talked to my therapist about it last week and I’m feeling better. She helped me come up with the plan.”
She nods her head and sips from the thermos she’s holding. “The plan?”
“Yep, my goal is no more than six months. I’m honestly hoping to be out in three, but I know that puts us around the first of the year, and it might be hard to find an apartment. I’m hoping that come the end of January, Dolly and I will be settled in our new place.”
“And then what?”
“I’m not sure yet. It definitely takes some of the pressure off of finding a place sooner, and it gives me time to look for something more permanent, maybe even a second job. ”
“A second job?”
“Yeah. I don’t plan on stopping my savings account, and I plan on giving Tanner something, so a second job will be good. Plus, it’ll also keep me busy, so I won’t be forced to be around him more than I have to.”
“I know the camp thing is important to you, but he said you didn’t owe him anything. Let him help you.”
“A second job isn’t that big of a deal.”
“I just don’t want you working yourself into the ground.”
“Says the person who works three jobs and barely has time for a social life.”
“Fair,” she puts her hands up. “It’s just I have to pay back my loans. You don’t have to stress out about Cody or the future. It’s okay to relax and take things easy.”
“You sound like my therapist.”
“Maybe we both have a point.”
I offer her a small smile. I wish life was that simple. I wish it was that black and white, but the truth is, every decision I make includes me thinking about my brother.
“It’s complicated. Opening up camps like this would be huge for my family and so many other people. You should have seen my parents…they’re exhausted. If there was a camp they could send Cody to for a week, and they could get some respite, do you know how huge that would be for them and him?”
“I just wish you’d put yourself first and stop worrying about everyone else. Tanner isn’t going to force you out. You could literally ride that wave as long as you wanted.”
“I will not be riding anything,” I deadpan. “They did finally agree to start looking for backup caregivers next week, which is a relief. I told them I’d help with the interviews if they need me to, so maybe I don’t have to worry about them getting hurt.”
