“Well, you know me,” he says in a raspy voice. “Enjoying the quiet.”
“Wasn’t it you that taught me never to lie?”
“That was your momma.” The corner of his mouth tips up in a smile. “Pure as the sun’s bright, she brought all the good.”
Partially true, but my father is an honest man, he just doesn’t like to admit defeat. He takes on all the worry and leaves the restof us to believe everything is perfect. But he can’t hide this, he can’t pretend that every day isn’t a struggle. We all see it in his eyes.
“You get the inventory done?”
Business, all business, it’s his way of ignoring what he faces every day.
“Last night, between me and Bennett, we got it all checked in, shelves stocked and ready.”
“Who’s on the clock now?”
“Maggie at the register and Warren on the floor,” I tell him as I sit in the chair, my elbows resting on my knees. “I’m on my way in but wanted to stop in and check with you and Ma first.”
“I’m good, but your mother may need a night out.”
“Dancing?” I say with a smile and he returns one.
“Do me a favor.” He looks over at me and something pulls at me deep. A gut-wrenching tug, like my chest is being squeezed tight and I can barely breathe. “Set something up for her. Maybe dinner out with the ladies, a craft night, something.” He pauses and I wait for him to continue. “She refuses to leave my side, just sits here at my side or in the kitchen ready to run to me if she hears me grunt or groan. She can’t toss herself aside, she needs to take a break.”
“I’ll work on something,” I assure him and he nods.
“I hate that I’m putting her and you through this.”
“You aren’t putting us through anything.” This man, and his uncontrollable need to be the caretaker of those he loves.
He says nothing in return because this is a conversation we have had often and it only becomes a back and forth, with neither of us willing to cave.
“You’re set for now?” I ask, knowing that after his treatment yesterday his next couple of days will be rough.
“I’m good,” he assures me, though I know the worst has not yet to hit him.
“I guess I’m gonna head in and work on some big orders Randy put in for some upcoming projects.” Aaron’s father could go to some big chain to order all his materials, but the man is loyal. They’ve always taken care of us, and in turn us them. It’s more than a working relationship, it’s family.
“Don’t forgot to stop in and make sure our momma knows she’s the prettiest most loved woman in Hudson.”
Tears spring to my eyes and I nod, clearing the emotions from my throat.
“You got it, Pop.” Leaning over I place my hand on his shoulder and offer a squeeze. “I’ll get working on that night out for her too.”
Stepping back I turn and start to walk away when I hear his raspy whisper. “Finn.” I pause and look back over my shoulder at him. “I’m gonna beat this.” He holds my stare. “I won’t let it win.”
“I know, Pop.” I nod, trying to rein in my feelings. “You’re too mean.”
He chuckles and waves me off and I leave the room with his smile in my mind.
“How’s he doing?” It’s the first thing my mother asks when I enter the kitchen.
“Stubborn and ornery,” I tell her as I stop in at her side and kiss the top of her head. “What you got going on in here?”
“Anita brought by some apples, so I was just getting them washed up. Thought I might make some pie, or something this afternoon.”
“Need some help?”
“No.” I miss the happy in her voice. She tries to put on a show, but I can see right through her facade. I know worry lays heavy on her. “I like the quiet.” I know she is lying. “Dad will be gone for a day or two and I need something to occupy my thoughts.”
