He only nods. I don’t expect much else.
“I need to order some groceries. Is there anything in particular you like to eat?”
The only thing he gives me is his silence. He doesn’t even look at me.
“I bet you like that sugary cereal stuff, huh? Chips? Soda? I eat healthily, but we can make some exceptions.”
He still says nothing.
“I’m getting you set up at the local high school, but you don’t have to go right away. I know this will take time and adjustment.”
God, it’s like talking to an inanimate object. I realize he’s grieving, and he’s terrified about what’s to happen to him, but I have no idea how to breach his walls.
“There are a lot of fun things to do in New Orleans. I’m sure we can find something to do… if you want.”
When I’m still met with silence, I sigh, lean forward, rest my elbows on my thighs, and look at him. “I’m so sorry about your parents. I realize it may not mean much, but they were amazing people. I liked them a lot.”
The only sign of life from him was the sudden tears and sniffling.
I nearly called my mother asking for help, but hell would freeze over first. I’m sure she’ll criticize me or make me feel more inept than I already do. Tell me I’ll do a terrible job, no doubt.
Even if my neighbor is annoyed with me, he’s my best option for now.
“Let’s head next door. I’m really clueless about this, Braeden, and I need some help.”
He stands and waits for me without complaint.
Okay, now to suck up my fucking pride and tuck my tail between my legs.
Chapter 9
Seth
Ihavedinnersimmeringon the stove as the boys play a video game, and Emily is on her tablet, watching one of her videos, when I hear a knock on my door.
I wash and dry my hands, then rush to answer it before my kids do.
The very last thing I expect standing on my front doorstep is Calvin with a teen boy who looks as if his entire world has collapsed. Heck, Calvin doesn’t look much better.
“Hey,” I say stupidly.
My neighbor rubs his neck and winces, like it’s painful for him to be here. Seriously? God, he’s such a turd.
“I, ah, could use some help,” he says, reluctantly meeting my eyes.
As much as I want to lay into him, since he doesn’t deserve my help, I say nothing out of respect for the boy. I step aside to let them in.
The teen leans close to Calvin and threads his fingers into the crook of Calvin’s arm, clinging to him and not stepping inside.
“It’s okay, Braeden. This is Seth, my neighbor. He’s got three kids.”
“Hey, Braeden,” I say. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“Hey…” he says so quietly I barely hear him.
Who’s this boy to him? Is it his son from a past relationship? I never got the impression he was a father. Not once. It could have been sprung on him, I suppose.
Calvin steps inside, and the boy follows close behind. It’s clear he needs some sort of help, but I have no idea what other than the fact that it has to do with Braeden.
