I wince, because she’s right. Not only did our father not babysit, he didn’t give a shit at all. “I think there has to be middle ground between overbearing and completely absent.”
She hesitates. “Is that what your father was like? Absent?”
“He was either mean and raging, or blackout drunk. I was the one who looked after Courtney, as much as I could.”
“Someday, I’ll tell you about life growing up in the club in more detail.”
Her tone is dismissive, indicating the end of the conversation, so apparently that day isn’t today.
“Anyway,” she continues, “what’s the protocol for the trip to Denver?”
“We’ll set up the logistics on our end. Once that’s done, I’ll explain the details to you.”
“Are we sharing a hotel room?” she asks, frowning.
“Most likely a suite.”
I can’t tell if she’s relieved or annoyed, that’s how fast the kaleidoscope of emotions drifts across her features. Then she just nods and stands up. “You cooked—I’ll clean up the kitchen.”
I stand at the same time. “You don’t have to.”
“I need something to do,” she says firmly, gathering up our plates.
“All right.”
Instead of letting her do it alone, we work together. She rinses bowls, plates, and silverware, and I put them in the dishwasher. She hands me the dishcloth so I can wipe down the table while she washes the frying pan. I put away the condiments and she wipes down the counters and stove top.
Then we’re done and I don’t know what I’m supposed to do.
I like having her around.
I enjoy her company.
And me behaving like a gentleman seems to have screwed everything up.
That’ll teach me, I guess.
I follow her into the living room, and she scoops up Cleocatra, nuzzling her neck.
Why do I suddenly envy the damn cat?
“Want to watch something?” I offer.
She glances at me. “I…guess.”
She’s reluctant but is probably bored out of her mind after spending all day in the bedroom.
“We could rent a movie or find something on cable.”
“I don’t care.”
I pick up the remote and pull up the guide. “What’s your pleasure? Jurassic Park, reruns of Big Bang Theory, or the housewives of somewhere.”
“Jurassic Park is always a favorite,” she says without hesitation.
Good to know.
I click on the channel and the familiar scene from early in the movie comes on, showing a calm, sunny day at the ill-fated dinosaur park.
