My dad crouches down just in time for Myles to launch himself into his arms while River hugs the door while slightly hiding behind it.
I walk over as he laughs and says, “Boys’ Day at Grandpa’s!”
“Don’t forget me,” Manuel adds, stepping into view with a small wave.
I bite back the automatic surge of dislike that rises up whenever I see him and force myself to shake his hand.
I know what happened with my parents isn’t on him.
Doesn’t mean I have to like it.
My father wasn’t some closeted man who married my mom for appearances. Their story is a lot weirder than that.
Jess helps the boys into their coats, acting like she was in on the plan and it wasn’t just sprung on her two minutes ago.
My dad turns on the charm with her the way he always does.
Manuel, on the other hand is cold. Barely more than a nod in her direction.
It makes me like him a little more.
Last night, after I got some sage advice from a stranger, I knew I wasn’t ready to go home. I still have no idea how, but I ended up at my dad’s.
Manuel being there almost made me turn around. But I couldn’t exactly go to Darren’s with him being married to Jess’s best friend, and my mom was out of the question too.
So I stayed.
I told my dad everything. He listened. Asked if I’d consider counseling again.
Manuel, on the other hand, muttered something about not staying in an unhappy marriage like my dad.
I’d been too drunk to say anything then.
I’m not now.
Still, I don’t say anything when he ignores Jess’s question.
Just yesterday, I would’ve kicked him out of my house for disrespecting her like that.
Today… I don’t seem to care at all.
Haley said I’m in shock. That I’m reacting instead of thinking, and that I shouldn’t make any hasty decisions right now.
I’m not taking that advice.
Jess made me pay for a year while knowing she was the one at fault.
And I’m supposed to slow down and be reasonable?
Yeah. No.
Not this time.
Once the kids are gone, I walk back toward the kitchen.
God, I’d kill for a scotch right now, but last night’s binge is still pounding in my head.
Bypassing the counter, I drop into a chair at the kitchen table instead.
