“Then I’ll drive you home.”
“Creed, you have school.”
He raises an eyebrow as he grabs his backpack.
“I’m an adult.”
“And I’m a gentleman.”
In a boy’s body.
“Fine, drive me home. Then head back to class.”
Creed shrugs. “Last period is boring, anyway. My teacher won’t care. I have the best grades in the class.”
That doesn’t surprise me either.
As we walk towards his car, I ask, “Have you thought of going to a private school? Something that might challenge you more?” Based on the cars they drive, I don’t think money would be an issue.
“I did. The school has suggested it several times.”
“And why didn’t you go?”
“My dad. It’s the two of us. I don’t need to go far away to some fancy school to learn. Not when my family and my life are here.”
“You’re a very wise kid.”
He grins. “Yeah, I know.”
“And so humble.” Every day, I hope my son grows up to be just like Creed.
How is he going to do that without a father?
Will I be enough to give him what he needs?
There’s a car in Creed’s driveway as he pulls up to my house. It’s ratty and rundown. Old cars aren’t a big deal, but one that dirty…the owner obviously doesn’t care about it.
Creed pulls into my driveway, but his eyes go to his front door.
Standing right next to it is a woman…I really want to call her a hooker…but that feels a little judgmental.
“Who’s that?” It really isn’t any of my business, but I don’t like the intensity in Creed’s eyes, nor do I like the way she’s pounding on that door, shouting obscenities.
“The woman who gave birth to me.”
Oh.
OH.
“Maybe we should go for ice cream or something.”
“I’m not five. Ice cream doesn’t distract me.”
Then I don’t have any other tricks. “Want to visit The Cake Lady?”
“Yes, but I’m not leaving. Dad’s probably on his way. She needs to be gone before he gets here.”
What? That means... “Waiting for your dad might be a good idea.” Or the police. That woman is acting emotionally unstable. She might be on drugs.
