The gentleness surprises me.
All that careful control, all that hard Candy armor, and underneath, he’s just a son taking care of his father. Something about the moment gives me pause, and I stop at the door, giving them some space.
“Thanks,” Robert says. Then, looking at Brody, “I’m sorry. I know I keep saying that, but I mean it. I’m sorry you had to—” His voice catches. “I’m trying. I know it doesn’t look like it, but I’m trying.”
“I know, Dad.”
“I hadn’t had a drink in three weeks. That’s something, right?”
“Yeah, Dad. That’s something.”
“But I screwed up. Again.” His dad shakes his head. Lets out a weighted sigh. “Story of my life.”
Brody doesn’t respond.
Just stands there, his shoulders rigid, his whole frame controlled.
I don’t know what possesses me. Call it cliché. Or maybe the Holy Spirit. Or maybe just a blip in my ability to read the room.
“Would it be okay if I prayed?” I ask quietly. “For both of you?”
Both men turn to stare at me. Robert glances at Brody. Then back at me. What in heaven was I thinking? No, of course they don’t want me to?—
“Actually, that’d be nice—yeah,” Robert says.
Oh. Okay then.
I set down the hot chocolate. Close my eyes.
“God, I don’t really know what to say here. This is messy and complicated and probably way above my pay grade. But I’m asking—please be with Robert. Lay a healing hand on him, Father, and give him strength for whatever comes next.” My voice suddenly feels raw as I continue. “And be with Brody. Give him peace. Help him know he’s not alone. Please, Lord, help both of them know they’re loved. Even when things are hard. Especially when things are hard. Amen.”
The room feels quiet, still. My eyes feel heavy when I finally open them.
Robert is staring at me, eyes shining.
“Thank you,” he says quietly.
“You’re welcome.”
Brody is looking at me with this expression I can’t quite read.
I reach out, thread my fingers through his, and squeeze. You are not alone, Brody Kane.
Another heavy beat passes, and suddenly I remember?—
“Oh, the hot chocolate!” I retrieve the mugs I’d set down on the nearby table and hand one to Robert. “I know it’s a little adolescent, but there’s something about hot chocolate. A good warm mug in my hands can make any moment feel bearable.”
Robert looks at the mug with curiosity, turns his gaze back to me, his eyes twinkling. “I can see why Brody was so smitten with you after Barcelona.”
Brody’s head snaps up, no longer focused on his mug of cocoa.
“You are the Chloe from Barcelona, aren’t you?” Robert asks.
“How do you—” I turn to Brody. “How does he know about Barcelona?”
A mortified look washes over Brody’s face. “You know what, Dad? I think it’s time for you to get some rest.” He gives his dad a look as if to add Before you stir up any more trouble.
“Right,” Robert says, apparently taking the hint. “I’m all set here. Why don’t you two get back to your date. I’m sorry I held you up.”
