“You’re welcome.”
“Can I take you anywhere?”
“The offer is much appreciated, but I enjoy my daily walks.”
“Okay. I’m going to take him home so he can get some rest.”
“That’s a good idea.”
I put Mason in the back seat and buckle him in.
“Are you mad at me?”
“Of course not, silly.”
“Is Art?”
“No, he’s just really worried.”
“But I left home by myself.”
“That was a really dangerous thing to do. Something bad could’ve happened to you.”
“I wanted to find Mommy.”
“I know it makes you sad she isn’t around, but it’ll get better, I promise. You’re a strong boy, and I’ll be here to help.”
“You’ll never leave me, right? That’s what Art said.”
“You’re so awesome. My life wouldn’t be complete without you.”
He laughs gleefully when I tickle him.
“There’s the smile I love seeing.” I close the door, then get into the driver’s seat.
I send Art a text before pulling away, letting him know Mason is safe and sound.
I take off at a dead run from the precinct after reading the text from Cin. It doesn’t take me long to get home. I’m surprised I made it without being pulled over by the cops. I rush inside and up the stairs. I hear Cin’s beautiful voice the closer I get to Mason’s bedroom. I peer through the slightly open door. They lie on the bed together while she reads him a book. It’s the same one I read at Cole’s gravesite. The memory of that day flashes through my mind. I had fought going, but she pushed and wouldn’t relent until I agreed to go. Since then, I’ve visited several times, bringing Mason along. I told him everything about Cole. I still haven’t fully forgiven myself for his death, and most likely never will, but I’ve learned to live with it for Mason’s sake. Cin brought me back from the brink. I would probably be six feet under if not for her. Those initial months together were the happiest of my life, which is why her betrayal cut so fucking deep. Eight years later and it still hasn’t healed. That’s a hell of a long time to hold a grudge. A normal person would’ve forgiven her and moved on, but I’ve never claimed to be normal. My name and that word don’t belong in the same sentence. Abnormal? Now that word fits perfectly.
“Do you want me to read another book?” Cin asks Mason.
“No.” He yawns.
“I bought this book for Cole’s birthday, long ago.”
“You knew my brother?”
“Yes, after he went to heaven.”
“I wish he was still here.”
“He is. You just can’t see him.”
I listen intently to their exchange. I want to believe there’s a divine presence above, but so much fucked-up shit happens in the world, it’s hard to.
“Are you hungry? I can whip you up some breakfast.”
“I’m tired.”
