I tried to bite back the smile that spread across my face, but there was no hiding it. I ran my hand through my brown hair, just looking for something to do with my hands.
"Hey, how's your dad doing?" I asked as I continued to help Belle with closing duties.
A sigh from deep within her emerged. The playful smile she'd been giving me was gone.
"He's getting settled in. He hated it at first . . . he still would rather be home. But it's for the best," she said, like she was trying to convince herself.
"It is for the best," I said as I put my hand over hers.
Her dad had been struggling with dementia for a couple of years, but over the past couple months, it progressed, and Belle had to put him in an assisted living center. This was hard for her. Being estranged from my parents was hard, but watching a parent you love and who adores you slowly slip away had to be hard.
"Well, I'm going to get out of here," I said before I crossed behind the counter to give her a hug. "If you need anything, you know we are all here for you."
"I know. It's the only thing that keeps me going, but we're good. Just some growing pains."
"Okay," I said as I patted her arm. "I'll see you soon."
As I made my way to my car, my phone buzzed in my pocket.
Eleanor - So it looks like our kids are having a movie night tomorrow.
I knew the smile that was spread across my face was goofy, but I couldn't seem to help it where she was concerned. While it wasn't my night to be with Leo, if Eleanor was going to be there, I would be there.
Alex - Oh, really?
Eleanor - Yep. I met Becca at pick up, and we got ambushed.
Alex - lol. Yeah, that happens.
Eleanor - but . . . it looks like we are both child-free for the evening.
My heart stopped as I walked up to my car.
I was excited for a simple movie night with the kids . . . but a night with just her.
Alex - I'll pick you up at 7
Eleanor - See you then.
I'm pretty sure I floated on a cloud the whole way home, and I don't think the cheesy grin left my face once. I'd forgotten how fun all of this could be.
Now I just needed to figure out a good date for Eleanor.
24
ELEANOR
Ishut Ava’s door gently after dropping her off with Becca and Leo, my heart a little lighter than usual. Hearing Ava say, “I’ll be fine, Mom,” before darting into their house was . . . new. A good new.
On the drive home, I’d texted Alex:
Eleanor:What should I wear tonight?
His response came fast.
Alex:Whatever you’re comfortable in. I just want you there.
Which, of course, didn’t helpat all.
