“It’s still early, but I’ve been seeing someone.”
Mom’s face lit up with excitement, while Dad’s smile faded into a grimace. He leaned forward as asked, “Who is this fella?”
“His name is Luke. We actually went to high school together.” I didn’t want him worrying unnecessarily, so I added, “We’re taking things slow. Getting to know one another.”
“That sounds nice.”
“It has been.” I looked at Mom and smiled. “He’s smart and funny, and he’s handsome, too. I really enjoy being with him.”
“So, he’s your age?”
“Pretty close, I guess.”
“Has he ever been married?”
“No, not that I know of.”
“Any kids?”
“No.”
“What about a record?”
“I highly doubt it.”
“Okay, so what does he do?”
“I guess you could say he works security.”
“Where?” Dad pushed.
“Stop interrogating her, honey,” Mom fussed. “Give her a chance to talk.”
“Okay. Then, get to talking.”
“There’s not much to tell.” I folded my last T-shirt and placed it on top of the pile. “He’s not like anyone I’ve ever dated before.”
“Oh, you like him.” Mom smiled.“You like him a lot.”
“Yeah, I do.”
Dad’s voice was riddled with concern as he asked, “How does this boy treat you?”
“Like I matter.”
I gave him a moment to process what I’d said, and Dad’s expression softened. He leaned back on the sofa and crossed his arms with a nod.
“That’s what’s important.”
“I think you will like him.”
“I’m sure we will.”
I knew they would have their doubts about Luke, and I couldn’t blame them. Luke was so different from Gary that I was sure they would be questioning the relationship. They both thought the world of Gary and couldn’t understand why things fell apart with him. I didn’t have the heart to tell them that we lost interest in one another.
I wasn’t sure Gary ever had a real interest in me. If I had to guess, I would say he didn’t. Our marriage was just for show,and while I would always think the world of him, I couldn’t stay married to him.
They’d witnessed my heartbreak, and they didn’t want me to go through that again. So, their hesitation was understandable. Mom gave me a warm smile as she said, “You seem happy.”
