Thirty minutes later, I’m drenched in sweat as Lochlan and I spar, taking turns with the punching bag that I’ve worn into a heap of faded leather and frayed seams.
It’s my place to work out the aggression that I let control my life for too long, the outbursts that always got me in trouble. Whenever I need to blow off steam, I end up in this corner of the garage, punishing my fists.
Another thirty minutes go by until I’m bent over and braced on my knees, catching my breath.
“Feel better?” Lochlan asks through his own exhaustion.
“Yeah, thanks, man.”
He studies me for a minute but nods, leaving me to my thoughts as sweat drips down my face.
* * *
12 years ago…
“Stop following me, Jensen. You’re not invited.”
“You never told me what you were doing.”
“It’s none of your business.”
“I’m your best friend, of course, it’s my business.”
“Fine, best friend. I’m going on a date.”
“With who?”
“A boy from school.”
“Yeah, who?”
“I’m not telling you.”
“Why?”
“Because you’ll try to scare him off.”
“Why would I ever–” I start to lie, but she cuts me off.
“Iknowthat’s what you’ve been doing. Scotty let it slip when he was canceling our study date last week.”
“He’s lying.”
“No! You’re lying, and I’m sick of it. You don’t get to sabotage me!”
“I’m not trying to sabotage you, Liv. I’m trying to look out for you.”
“Well, stop. I might have daddy issues, but I didn’t ask for a father figure. I can make my own choices.”
“I’m sorry,” I utter, but she’s already storming away from me.
She’s not even off to college yet, but I’m already losing her.
“Liv, wait!” I close the distance between us, but she doesn’t turn around. I have to cut her off to force her to look at me. “You’re right, okay? I’ll stop interfering.”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
