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“Well, I’m glad someone over the age of fifteen thinks so.” I didn’t hear any type of compliment coming from my husband when I walked out of our room tonight. The kids, like clockwork, had told me how awesome I looked, but not a peep from Heath.
The lights flicker a couple times, signaling for us to take our seats. Once seated at our table we sit through speech after speech. They drone on about the industry and how it’s turning up after several years of downturns and what this means for our community, city, and state. There’s a representative from each trade talking about what we should expect in the future and how the evolution of building is changing, and we better get ready.
By the time the speeches are over, and the awards begin, the kids look bored out of their minds and I’m sure I look just as amused, but when I peer in Heath’s direction he’s engrossed in everything that’s happening on the stage and oblivious to his family’s state of boredom. There’s slight smile on his face as he listens to everyone who stands in front of the crowd and accepts their awards. I haven’t been able to bring that expression out in my husband in I can’t remember how long. Why can’t he look at me like that? The thought pinches at my chest. I feel as if this is another sign that I’m losing my marriage and my husband is no longer interested.
Just as I’m about to rescue myself and the kids and grab a ride home, the announcement of builder of the year floats through the air.
“This is the last honor of the night. It’s kind of like Picture of the Year at the Oscars,” the speaker jokes, getting a small round of laughter from the audience. “Without further ado, I’m honored to announce Heath James with James Construction as the winner of the 2016 builder of the year!”
“Holy shit!” I say as I immediately start clapping. The kids whoop next to me, while everyone around us is saying their congratulations.
With a continued smile on his face, Heath pushes back from his chair, buttoning the button on his dinner jacket and makes his way up to the podium. I watch my husband walk up on the stage, take a gold trophy in his hand, and then face the crowd. Years of his hard work, have paid off. The sacrifices we made when he decided he wanted to open his own company all led up to this moment.
Clearing his throat, he begins to talk. “When I was younger, I didn’t know that I wanted to own my own business. The thought of it brought on a massive headache that I didn’t want any part of. As the years went on and I perfected my craft, I started to see things differently. I wanted to be my own boss. I wanted the final say in things because we all know the customer is always right. Even when they aren’t.” Another round of laughs carries through the room, making Heath pause.
“I don’t build to receive these rewards. I build because it’s who I am. But none of this would be possible without my crew. I’m kinda sorry they aren’t here tonight because this award is just as much theirs as it is mine. They work endless hours to make my visions come to life. Late nights, sometimes out of town jobs, and they rarely complain. If it weren’t for the working foundation I’ve built through my employees, I wouldn’t be standing here tonight. Thank you.” He nods, turning on his heel and leaving the stage.
I swallow as the lump I’ve been fighting continues to grow. I know I’m about to cry. Damn it.
“Whitney…”
Ruby’s voice pulls my attention away from the stage. “Can you make sure Heath takes the kids home, please?” I ask as I push my chair back.
“Yeah, babe, of course.” She stands and wraps her arms around me. “I’ve got you.”
“Thanks.” I turn towards Jenna, placing my hand on her shoulder to grab her attention. “Ruby and Steve are taking you home. I need to leave.”
“Why–”
“Jenna,” I snap, causing her to sulk back into her chair. “Please.”
“All right.”
“Thanks, baby.” I grab my purse from the table, and make a beeline for the door.
