* * *
Lori slidesonto the front seat of my car, closing the door a little harder than I would prefer. Even though Holden texted her about my limo service, she still looks none too pleased.
“Hey there.” I do my best to attempt to start out with a hopefully pleasant conversation, even offer a smile.
Her eyes roll to me as she snaps her seatbelt in with aggression. “He roped you into carpool duty now?”
“No,” I answer, as though her question couldn’t be further from the truth, even if she’s right. “I’m happy to help, and your brother has a science project.”
“Because he’s a nerd like that. Bet my dad wishes Harry would play hockey.”
I turn the engine on, and we get on our way. “But figure skating is pretty cool. I did it myself when I was younger.”
“Really?” There almost seems to be a faint sound of interest, but I can’t tell.
“Yeah, did it for seven years actually. But I didn’t like competitions and somehow lost my interest in skating.” I focus on the road.
“So, you’re a failure.” Lori seems to be happy about my revelation.
Andhere is why I knew a pleasant conversation wouldn’t be happening despite my best efforts.
“Aren’t you honest,” I say, sarcastic. “I don’t think I’m a failure, I just grew up and found other interests. Anyhow, how long have you been skating?”
She begins to play with the buttons on the dashboard for music in the car. “Since I was seven. I think I’m good.”
“So modest,” I mumble to myself. The sound of pop-country fills the car. “Nice choice in music.”
“Tell that to my dad. I’ve been begging him to use his connections for concert tickets for my birthday.”
I shrug. “Sounds like a reasonable request.”
Lori rests her head against the seat then throws me a look. “You know, he loses interest easily. Just because you’re staying with us, that doesn’t mean you’re different.”
I nod, trying to think of what to say. “Your dad and I aren’t like that.” Somewhat true. No kiss or further bases have been taken. Fucking via eye contact doesn’t count.
I glance quickly to my side to see that Lori is studying me, then she hums a sound. I’m sure she has a theory or opinion; she seems very intuitive for her age.
“You’re weird.”
My eyes pop out from her forwardness. “Uh, isn’t that a good thing?” My voice is uneven from lacking certainty.
“Maybe. You’re the one chauffeuring around kids you barely know.”
“I’ve met you before, you just don’t remember. Your dad would always show photos of you guys growing up too. It’s just been a while since I’ve seen him. And I’m not a child caretaker.” I feel like I need to get a sign to hang around my neck.
“Fair enough. I’m an adult anyhow. I think my dad still tries to have someone care for us because of Harry. He’s a bit sensitive.”
“Really?” I focus on the turn on the road.
“I don’t know, I’m not a therapist,” she responds.
I chortle to myself. “We’re almost there. Do I need to come in with you?”
“Of course not.” Lori looks out the windows to investigate where we are. “How did you know how to get here?”
“My grandparents used to have a lake house here. I’m not new to the area.”
A sound escapes her lips. “So you actually know the area and knew us from before. I’ll give you points for that. Most women start from zero when they try to grab my dad’s attention.”
