“Well…okay. I sort of met someone.” He tells me, and I set my glass on the table midway to my mouth.
“Why didn’t you say something?” It stings; we usually share everything. Or almost everything.
“Don’t look at me like that. It’s new. We’re…exploring some things I was never brave enough to explore before. I never…trusted anyone enough.”
“And you do with this quy?” My daddy instincts kick in. Protective.
“Yes. It’s been a month. We met at a Valentine's Day singles event at the community center. It’s still new, but I want to open up to him and explore some things. But what I want to explore requires full trust.” He looks down into his half-empty drink and won’t meet my eye.
What. The. Hell.
“Gray, you know you can tell me anything. I won’t judge. That’s why our friendship works.” My heart aches.
“I’ll tell you when the time is right. But for now, just know that I am being safe. Okay,” he reaches across the table and squeezes my hand.
“I trust you. Of course I do. Just be safe and know that I am only a phone call away if you ever need me,” I tell him. And it's true. I will always be there for him.
The sliding distressed barn door to Barrett’s office feels surprisingly warm under my palm. I offer it a gentle tap.
“Jason. Come in. What a surprise.” Barrett’s voice is tinged with a welcoming curiosity.
“Thanks. I know you’re not open yet, and I wanted to catch you before you get busy with customers. Caleb let me in the back door to the workroom.”
“I’ll have to have a word with him about his safety and opening that door.” Barrett winks. Always the daddy. “So…what can I help you with?”
I sink into the plush chair opposite him. This conversation has been rehearsed a dozen times in my head. Each time ending differently, and how I would react. I look up at Barrett, and he’s leaning in his chair. Relaxed. It immediately puts me a little more at ease.
Why do I feel like I’m in the principal’s office?
“Well, it’s about the spring break that’s coming up,” I began, my voice steady. “I don’t know how much you know about Ben’s past, and it’s not my place to reveal those details, but I know there are some things he never got closure with. I was thinking about taking a short road trip to his hometown, a few hours away from here.” I feel guilty even revealing this much.
“For closure.” Barrett nods slowly. Gaze thoughtfully. “I understand. Caleb had some things going on when we first met.It’s important for him to take care of himself.” Barrett taps his temple. Mental health.
“It really is,” I agree. “And that’s why I wanted to talk to you. Ben’s been tackling any challenge thrown at him with such enthusiasm.” I amplify his recent successes to paint a picture of dedication.
I lean in. “I’m hoping for April 10th to 13th. Just three days. I know it’s busy, with the wedding coming up, but I’ve helped him get more organized. Ben’s already planning ahead.” My nerves prickle.
Barrett steeples his fingers under his chin, a small smile playing on his lips. “You’re certainly advocating for him.”
“I just think he deserves this, Barrett,” I say. Voice sincere.
He’s silent, and I force down a flutter of nerves, trying for Ben’s optimism.
“I have to admit, Ben’s recent performance has been exceptional. He’s been a real asset to the shop. To Caleb.” He meets my gaze, and this time, his smile is wider, more genuine. “I can see how much this means to both of you.”
My heart leaps.
This is it.
“I’m happy to give him the time off,” Barrett says, standing up. “Encourage him to come see me once you guys have a solid plan.”
Relief floods me. “Thank you, Barrett. Ben’s needed this for ages—it’ll help him move forward.”
“And, Jason?”
I stand and match his pose. Hands clasped in front of me. “Yes?”
“Enjoy that trip with your boy.”
