She takes a moment to think before answering.
“Your father and I know plenty of people whose marriages fell apart. It can be devastating, even when the marriage isn’t healthy and ending it was the best thing to do. It’s like losing a family member, except it’s your marriage. Most people have to go through a similar grieving process before they’re ready to get back into a relationship.”
I’m silent, unsure of how to respond. I’ve only been thinking about my side of things, or me versus Andre. Yes, he’s a real piece of work, but shemarriedhim. She got in front of friends and family and said “’til death do us part”, stayed with him for four years, and then had to take him to court.
“Do you love her?” Mom asks quietly.
“I do,” I say without hesitation.
“Then talk to her. Talk to her about what you both want.”
“And if she wants the kind of life only Andre could give her?” Just the thought makes my heart squeeze painfully.
“Hmm,” Mom hums, deep in thought. “You know, you were always competitive, even as a little boy. You raced your friends on bikes, worked hard to be the best on the basketball team, and, of course, you competed with your brothers.
“A little sibling rivalry is normal. Healthy even. But you took it to heart. I remember many a night comforting you because you weren’t as smart as Henry, or weren’t as popular as Noah.” Her voice turns serious.
“But youaresmart. Youaresuccessful. You were paid to play a sport you love foryears, and now you’re an assistant coach for a team on its way to the state championships. Shouldn’t that be enough to prove the only person doubting your worth is you?”
I’m stunned speechless. Mom’s always been my biggest cheerleader, the one to see me when I felt invisible most days. She’s never been one to give out tough love; that was Dad’s area. Has she finally reached her limit with me?
“You’re a grown man,” she says sternly. I hear the telltale squeak of the kitchen cabinets, the thump of mixing bowls on the butcher block cutting board. “Maybe it’s time to move past all this childish competition and play your own game.”
I’m still reeling when she disconnects the call; I didn’t even get to say goodbye. First my brothers, now Mom. I’ve never felt so utterly alone. Who’s going to be my cheerleader now?
Chapter thirty-one
Kendra
As soon as I land and turn off airplane mode, my phone explodes with texts and notifications. I send an apologetic look to the people in the neighboring seats.
Denise
Denise:Are you really getting back together with Andre?!
Morty
Morty:Call me as soon as you land.
Morty:Don’t read the articles.
Dad
Dad:Why didn’t you tell me about you and Andre? That’s great news!
Damon
Damon:We need to talk. Please call when you get this.
Dickbag
Dickbag:Let me know when your flight lands. I’ll pick you up.
Niko
Niko:I’m parked on the lower level of Terminal B.
By the time I read the last text, my heart is beating out of my chest. What articles? Why did Damon send me the four words of doom? And why the hell is my ex offering to pick me up from the airport when A) he knows I have a driver, and B) he knows I want nothing to do with him? Was mystop fucking texting me!text not clear enough when I sent it two days ago?
