This was too much. He’dmissedso much. “Mom, are you going to call tomorrow?”
“I am.”
Chris bit his lip. “You know, you’re always welcome to come and visit again. Just give me notice so I can make sure you have clean sheets to sleep on.”
“Thank you.” Her voice sounded shaky, like she was suppressing tears. “How is Erykah doing? The girls?”
“Cheyenne is in school and Ash at daycare. They all have good and bad days. Erykah is trying to find a place to live but now doesn’t want to leave until I’m on my feet.”
Could he add that to the list of things he couldn’t stand? He felt like he was holding her back from starting a life that would benefit the girls. Cheye’s therapist mentioned how important a good home environment and routine was. She was a little concerned that Erykah would be moving soon, and Chris had finally begun to see the merit of her comment.
After all, his offer to share his home had always been a stepping stone. Would Cheye feel like she was losing someone all over again—no matter if he’d still come to visit? And Ash? She was used to seeing him every day and snuggling in his arms at least once. What were they going to do when that bridge arrived?
“Chris...”
“Yes?”
“I’d be happy to come and help you all. If Erykah is putting her life on hold for you, then my arrival means she can maintain her house search. Once she secures a place, I can stay with you until you’re able to do everything on your own. I think I’m perfectly capable of watching over my own son.”
His breath stuck in his chest.
Having his mom move in temporarily was a dynamic Chris had never thought he’d face. However, if she was serious about the olive branch and wanting to deepen their relationship, then this was a good time to do that. It wasn’t like he could go anywhere.
Only now there would be nothing stopping Erykah and the girls from finally moving on to the next step. Cheye needed to be able to heal from the trauma of losing her folks, though she’d most likely grieve for the rest of her life. Every day the girls lived in his house cemented the idea of permanence in Cheyenne’s mind. The last thing Chris wanted to do was hurt that precious little one simply because she changed addresses.
What am I going to do?
Thirty-Seven
Lamont
Is Chris really fine?
Tuck
Right? If he uses “fine” one more time, I’ll have to fly up there and see how he’s doing myself.
Nevaeh
Guys are never fine when they’re injured. You’d think after dealing with women, you’d realize no one is when using that word.
Piper
Erykah, feel free to ignore us until you’re able to chat. We know you’re busy.
Tuck
Totally. I had a break in my own schedule, which is why I replied.
Lamont
Same. I didn’t mean to bombard you, just concerned for him.
Erykah
He’s not fine, but I don’t know how to help. Most of the time he pretends to work on the computer but really just stares out the window looking lost.
Nevaeh
