She opened the cooler and began unpacking Tupperware containers. “It wouldn’t hurt you to show a little more emotion sometimes, Ty.”
He pulled two glasses out of an overhead cabinet. “I show plenty of emotion. You saw me the other day when Georgia lost to Alabama.”
“That was a replay from five years ago.”
“I know, but still… that kind of thing hurts for a long time.” He pressed a hand to his heart and squeezed his eyes shut until he felt her playful slap on his arm.
“You’re impossible.”
He grunted. “Ouch. That hurt.”
“Just desserts. Now, where are the bowls? I made chicken and dumplings.”
His stomach stirred with hunger. “Really? You haven’t made me chicken and dumplings in forever.”
“Well, I missed you,” she said, squeezing his cheek with her fingertips. “The house is very quiet without you. And now Julie’s gone as well… I’m not exactly sure what to do with myself.”
“I’m only staying here for two weeks. Someone has to make sure the farm is… well, I don’t know exactly what I’m watching it for. But apparently someone needs to watch it while Julie is gone. Do I cut the grass? I don’t know. They didn’t really leave instructions.”
“I don’t know much about farms, but I’m sure you’ll do fine. How’s the job search comin’?”
They sat down at the kitchen table, and Tyler ate a big spoonful of chicken and dumplings before responding.
“I haven’t seen anythin' yet. I’m still lookin’ around, though. Don’t fret, Momma.”
“I’m not fretting. I’m concerned.”
“Don’t be concerned.” He grinned and took another bite. Then he jumped to his feet and hurried into the kitchen. He’d stowed a bottle of his latest attempt at moonshine in one of the cabinets. He poured them each a small shot and carried them back to the table, handing one to her.
“I think I’m getting better at it. Have a taste and let me know.”
Mom frowned, staring at the shot glass. “I’m not big into drinking.”
“I know that, but it’s a small shot. You’ll be fine.”
She hesitantly took a sip, then blanched. “Hmmm… that’s strong. I’m sure it’s good, but I’m not really one to judge. Let me know if you make some blackberry wine.”
“Okay. Thanks, Momma.” He shook his head. “I think it’s tasting pretty good. And Brian is gonna hook me up with some contacts to see if I can start moving some product.”
“It’s illegal. You know that, right?”
He sighed. “It’s a few friends. No big deal.”
“Okay.”
They ate in silence for a little while. Then she spoke up again.
“Have you thought about taking up a trade, like plumbing? You could…”
“I’ll take care of it, Momma. I’ll figure it out.” He knew she meant well, but it was hard being back in her house again after almost a decade of independence. She wanted to control the situation, to control him and his life. He didn’t know what he wanted to do yet, so there wasn’t much point looking for work. He’d trawled through a few online ads, but nothing had jumped out at him, and he didn’t want to get into something on a whim. Maybe law enforcement or investigation work? There were a few options on his mind.
He had to figure out what he wanted to do with his life from now on. Had he made a mistake by leaving the military? Perhaps he should’ve stayed there, built his career around it. But he’d wanted more out of life. He’d wanted to get to know his daughter. He’d missed so much of her life already, he didn’t want to miss it any longer.
Chapter Twenty
There was a chill in the air. It was November, and Jessica had been teaching since August. She was finally beginning to feel as though she knew what she was doing, although she was still exhausted most of the time, and spent hours every evening working on lesson plans and assessments. She was also more homesick than ever. Teja had suggested they eat dessert together since her husband, Brad, was playing at the local honky-tonk with his band that evening.
They sat together on Jessica’s front porch. There was an old swing on the porch that creaked loudly when it moved. Jessica had her legs tucked up under her and held a bowl of peach cobbler with ice cream in her hands. She took a bite of the ice cream and then shivered.
