Pam: See you soon ??
I sat my phone in my lap and ran my clammy hands over my thighs. I was nervous, and not because of Chai’s driving.
We were on our way to Pam’s for dinner, and I was meeting her family for the first time tonight.
Remembering Pam’s favorite breathing technique, I took a deep breath, holding it in for three seconds before letting it out on a long exhale.
I inhale peace and exhale worry.
I inhale peace and exhale worry.
“Dad, will you relax,” Chai said with a laugh. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this worked up.”
I tugged at the collar of my flannel shirt and cracked the window, letting some fresh air flow into the car. “I’m trying! I just want this to go smoothly. You and Pam get along so well. I want her kids to like me.”
She laughed again and turned the car onto Pam’s street. “Well, you don’t have to worry about Tegan, and I’m sure Reece is going to like you. They just want their mom to be happy. Everything’s going to be fine.”
I looked over at her and smiled. “Thanks, kid.”
“You know I’ve always got your back.” She pulled into Pam’s car-lined driveway. “This is it. Ready?”
I nodded. “Let’s do this.”
We walked up the front steps, and before I could knock on the door, it flew open.
“Hi!” Pam said, beaming at us.
She was dressed in a cream-colored turtleneck—one that I was positive she’d knit herself—and jeans, looking just as beautiful as she always did.
“Hi, pretty lady.” I gave her a hug and a quick kiss. Being in her presence eased some of my anxiety, but there was still a knot in my stomach that wouldn’t loosen up until the introductions were done.
“Come on in,” Pam said, and we filed inside.
Remi greeted us, rubbing against my leg and holding his tail straight up.
“Hey, buddy.” I crouched to pet him while Pam and Chai hugged.
We hung up our coats and followed Pam down the hallway. Immediately, I noticed that she’d put up a new photo. The one of me, her, and Remi in our matching sweaters. The one I’d taken when she came to visit me.
It was my phone background, but I stopped for a second to admire our smiling faces and the way we were effortlessly posed. You could practically feel the joy radiating from us. It would have been a small thing to most people, but I was honored to have earned a place on her wall.
“Everyone,” Pam said when we stepped into the living room. “This is Alistair.”
Pam’s family was spread out on the couches, and all eyes snapped to me.
“Hi!” A carbon copy of Pam said and gave me an enthusiastic wave.
Tegan.
If I didn’t know better, I would have assumed they were sisters.
She rushed over with Atlas in tow and wrapped me in a tight hug. “It’s so nice to finally meet you.”
“It’s nice to meet you, too. Your mom has told me so much about you.”
Atlas extended a giant paw and shook my hand in what could best be described as a death grip. “Nice to see you again, Mr. Reid.”
“Please, call me Alistair,” I said, flexing my hand to make sure my fingers were still intact.
