“It still is,” I replied.
“Exactly.” He pointed at me with his fork. “So if this LA thing is the first real sign that gamble might turn into something solid, then take it seriously.”
“I am.”
“I know you are.” His mouth twitched. “That’s the only reason I’m not riding your ass harder.”
Mom rolled her eyes. “That’s your idea of support?”
“It is.”
I laughed. “I noticed.”
She gave me a warm smile. “I liked the stability the Air Force gave us, I’m not going to lie about that, but you were miserable those four years.”
My parents knew that I’d only joined the Air Force because of my father and not because it was something I wanted to do. So when I told them I wanted to leave after my original contract, they understood. They also knew my real passion was martial arts and it was always jujitsu, wrestling, and boxing that made me happy.
Dad didn’t argue.
She reached over and touched my forearm. “You’re not now.”
I glanced down at her hand, then back at her. “No. I’m not.”
“Then I’ll take me being worried over you being unhappy.”
That got to me more than I wanted it to.
Dad gave a short nod. “And I’ll take worried if it means you’re actually building something and not just pretending this is a plan.”
“It is a plan.”
“I know.” He sat back again. “Risky as hell, but at least it’s a real one.”
I let out a breath and picked up my fork again. “That might be the nicest thing you’ve said about it.”
Mom smiled wider. “It definitely is.”
Dad pointed at both of us. “Don’t make a big deal out of it.”
“Too late,” I replied.
He smirked. “Then eat your pasta.”
I did, and dinner became easier after that. Mom asked more about the trip and my job hunt, though I still hadn't found a position I’d consider doing. By the time I finished eating, I felt a lot better than when I’d walked in.
One MonthLater
My phone buzzedon the nightstand.
You coming?
A smile pulled at my mouth before I could stop it and I typed back:
Give me a minute
Keaton answered right away:
You’ve got thirty seconds before I come drag your ass in here myself
