“Thank you,” Bernard said. “Is there something that drew your attention to me?”
“You just seem stressed, and that can have a negative effect on your work.”
Bernard looked into Rich’s eyes. He couldn’t tell what his boss was getting at. His body tensed. Goose bumps ran up his arm. Bernard concentrated on his breathing.
“Everything is fine.” Bernard took another sip of coffee.
“If you’re stressed, just let me know. I’d rather you take some time and come back fresh than to underperform.”
Bernard had a clean work record. He’d always performed above standards. If his performance drew the attention of Rich, he needed to fix it.
“I’ll let you know,” Bernard said.
“Okay.” Rich stood. “I’ll see you on Monday.”
Rich closed the door on his way out.
*
BERNARD TOLD SARAHwhat happened on the way home.
“What?” she said.
“I need to get it together. This thing with Rory is affecting my work.”
“Call him,” Sarah said.
“Sarah. I—”
“You obviously miss him. I’m sure he misses you. He’s going through a lot right now, and it is compounded by the fact that his overbearing mother and the man he’s in love with are at odds with each other. You need to reach out to him.”
“Okay, I’ll call this weekend.”
“Good, now get home and work out what you’re going to say.”
*
BERNARD ARRIVED HOMEand checked the messages. There was one from his brother, checking in on him. He called back and they talked for a few minutes about life, work, and how their dad was doing.
Bernard went for his evening walk with Ginger. The warm air filled his lungs. The scent of grilled meats and vegetables wafted from backyards as he passed. His mouth watered and his stomach growled.
His walk took him to the local park. Children played with their parents on the swings and slides. A few dads watched their children. Would he have children one day?
He walked home, filled Ginger’s bowls, and grabbed leftovers for dinner.
He tried watching TV, but nothing interested him.
He looked over at the phone. Rory hadn’t called. He wanted to hear his voice. Hear his laugh. Hold him. Kiss him. He wanted to be with him. He’d never felt this way before and may never feel it again. Rory might be out of his life forever, and it was his fault.
They hadn’t spoken in a week. He couldn’t resist anymore. He had to call. It was Friday evening and Rory would be home.
The phone rang, and he heard Rory’s voice.
“You’ve reached Rory Sinclair. I can’t answer the phone right now. Please leave a message and I’ll call you back.”
“Rory, I wanted to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry I lashed out. Your mother said some nasty things, and they weren’t just directed at me, they were directed at you. I didn’t want you to face that kind of hatred from your own family. I miss you and I want you back in my life. I want to talk and work this out. Please call me.”
Bernard breathed a sigh of relief. He’d reached out and let Rory know how he felt. He prayed Rory would return his call.
