FIFTY
Patrick
It was raining cats and dogs. Huge storm system was moving East, and Middle Tennessee was getting the tail end of it. Early April was usually pretty nice, but the gnarly storm brought in some chilling temps. Felt like winter all over again.
I pushed my chair back from the desk and rubbed my eyes. It was only 9:30 a.m., but I was dog tired. I’d been working such long, erratic hours the days and nights were blending together. I ate and slept when I felt like I needed it, which wasn’t very much.
My systems were numb. Pure survival mode.
Danny had tried to coerce me out of the garage. Finally laid off when he put two and two together and realized I’d been dumped—twice. Left me alone to self-medicate. I think he was just glad I wasn’t turning to something strong.
Car repairs had never felt so empty though.
My phone buzzed. It was Fray. I’d been ignoring his calls for weeks now. Last thing I wanted to do was catch up.
I should get this.
I decided to answer then tell him I was busy.
“Fray, how’s it going?”
“Hey man, I’m relieved you picked up.”
“You okay?”
“Not really. I’m pulled to the side of I-40. The car just sputtered out, and I have no idea why.”
“Sorry, man. Your insurance should have a company they work with who can come and tow you.”
“Yeah, I’ve called them, and they said it’s going to be about a two hour wait. I’ve got Brady.”
He needed a ride home.
“Ah, gotcha. I’ll come get you guys.”
“Thanks, Pat. Brady’s crying for his bottle, and I just got him. I tried calling my sister, but she’s not picking up. Already clocked in probably.”
“No, it’s fine. I could use a drive.”
And a five hour energy.
“It’ll be good to see you. I’ll make you some breakfast if you haven’t eaten.”
I couldn’t remember the last time I’d eaten.
“Sounds good, buddy, I’m on my way.”
* * *
I hauled Fray and Brady into the truck as sheets of rain pelted us. Trucks speeding by on the highway blew the drops at odd angles. We were out of the vehicles for about thirty seconds, but managed to get soaked all the way through. Once Brady’s seat was buckled in, I eased out onto the interstate with the flashers on.
Brady was screaming. Fray sat next to him in the back seat.
I bumped up the heat. That water chilled to the bone.
“This weather is crazy.” Fray murmured as he tried to entertain the little guy. He offered him a pacifier, and Brady took it. Fray’s head came over the console as he leaned forward to chat. “Where you been, Pat? You’ve canceled game night twice. I’ve missed you!”
I shook my head. He knew about Jules, but I hadn’t told him about Sunny. When I did, he whistled. “No wonder you’re looking like that.”
