“Drinking isn’t going to make this better.”
“I’m not drinking because of Neil,” I insisted, though without knowledge of the case Calvin was working, I could understand why my dad thought it was only about Neil.
Pop didn’t speak much more until our meals arrived. I was poking at my eggs when he asked, “Why are you not at the Emporium?”
“I had some chores to do.”
“Sebastian.”
I glanced up. My dad was staring sternly at me, and I felt like I should ask for a second drink, hold the coffee. I knew he was worried. I had been attacked by an unknown assailant and then broke up with my long-term boyfriend the next day. I guess if I were a father, I’d be worried too, but I couldn’t explain to him that I thought the man who attacked me had killed two people and would undoubtedly strike again if he didn’t get what he wanted soon.
So I lied. Sort of.
“I’m just a little preoccupied.”
“Keep going.”
“I went to the precinct today that Calvin works at.”
“Why?”
I shrugged. “Not sure,” I said, failing to mention the roses and note. “He wasn’t happy to see me.”
“He was probably busy,” my dad supplied.
“He’s closeted,” I blurted out. “I don’t know why I assumed he wasn’t.”
“What exactly do you feel for him, kiddo? You’re sending conflicting reports.”
I laughed out loud. “I’ll say. So does he. I don’t know, Dad. When it’s just the two of us, he’s so different. Calvin is quiet and charming and sweet. I’ve never been treated like that by a guy—like I’m a prince.”
“Does he treat you like Neil did in public?” he asked, that sharp tone in his voice again.
“No. I mean, not really. I don’t know. It’s usually been a professional setting when I see him in public. He’s stern.”
Pop set his fork down and leaned back in his seat. “Are you fishing for an opinion?”
“Am I getting a bite?”
“He’s a nice boy.”
“He’s forty-two, Dad.”
“A nice man,” he corrected. “But I don’t think it’s wise of you to get involved with someone right now. Neil hasn’t even moved out yet.”
“I know. Iknowyou’re right,” I insisted. “And I don’t think he’s interested in a relationship anyway. At least, he’s made no indication that it was more than sex.”
Dad held his hand up. “Seb, you slept with him?”
“Uh. Did I say that?”
Motherfucker.
My dad sighed. “Were you safe?”
“Of course, Dad. Come on. I’m not a teenager.” I finished the last of my drink. “I just wish I didn’t have such shitty luck. I meet a guy I really click with and it’s another closeted cop.”
“Don’t push him. If it’s meant to be….”
