“Love you.”
Before I stand, he says, “Are you and Mr. Calvin gonna get married?”
I know exactly why he asks that and what his concerns are. It also breaks my heart.
“It’s too early to tell, kiddo. Cal and I haven’t been dating long enough.”
“Oh.”
“Would it bother you if we did… down the road?”
I don’t want to presume, but I need to think about these things when my kids are concerned.
Harrison shrugs. “I like him. He’s funny, and I like how he stacks our toys.”
I raise a brow when a thought suddenly hits me. “Hare… did you all leave the toys in his yard on purpose?”
He shrugs again and smirks, looking at me under his lashes.
“Jesus,” I say, and start chuckling. Soon, I’m in a fit of laughter, and he laughs with me. “All this time, I thought you kids weren’t listening to me. You little stinkers.” I wipe my eyes from laughing. “But you know, thanks to your antics, Calvin and I are now dating.” I wink at him and pretend to tickle him. “Don’t take that as an invitation to disobey me all the time.”
He giggles and nods. “Okay.”
I hug him again and kiss the top of his head. “You all are adorably rotten,” I say in humor. “Good night, Hare.”
I stand to leave, and before I can turn out his light, he says, “Night, Dad.”
I inwardly gasp. That came out of nowhere.Oh my god, I’m going to cry. Don’t make any sudden movements. Don’t make a big deal out of it. Just calmly go to your room and sob in there.
“Night.” I’m sure my voice cracked.
I flick off the light and shut his door. When I reach my room, I close my door, lean against it as my eyes leak. I have no idea what’s changed or why he decided to call me that, but I willnottake it for granted. Ever.
I pull my phone out of my pocket to tell Calvin.
Me: Hare called me ‘Dad’ tonight. ??
Joker: Aww! That’s incredible news. You deserve it. You’re an
amazing father, Tiger.
Me: I’m crying!
Joker: I bet. It’s a big moment.
Me: Thanks. How are you?
Joker: I’m alright. Going through some of Mom’s crap right
now.
Me: Yeah, it’s a lot. See you soon?
Joker: Yep, I’m flying out in the morning.
Me: I can’t wait.
Joker: I miss you too.
