“James told us about what happened,” my dad adds, “and we want the two of you to work through what you went through before jumping into something.”
“We have,” I tell them. “This isn’t some rash decision we settled on overnight. Everett knows what I expect of him, and we’re working through things.”
“And I don’t plan on leaving Teeny.”
My dad levels Everett with narrowed eyes, and I almost stifle a laugh. It reminds me so much of when he used to be greeted with the same look by my dad. Especially when Everett’s presence in our home became more consistent as he followed me around like a puppy dog.
“You say that now, but what happens when something more important comes up,” my dad accuses. “You had no problem leaving before.”
“He bought a house,” I tell him.
My dad’s face softens a bit, and I hope that it means we’re getting through his stern exterior.
“It’s beautiful. It has a pool and this beautiful view that overlooks a cliff. And there’s more than enough room for…” I stop, realizing that we haven’t really decided onmyliving situation.
“You bought a house?” my mom asks, confirming this news with Everett.
I nod.
“I bought it for Teeny,” Everett explains, extinguishing any doubt I had about moving in with him even though I haven’t officially accepted his offer to make his home mine as well. “I want to build a life here with her, and that means I’ll be wherever she is.”
The tension dissipates, and I can see the beginnings of approval edge its way into my parents’ apprehension. My mom shrugs at my dad. It surprises me how well they’re able to have a whole conversation with their eyes and body language.
“Well, I’m hungry,” my dad announces. “We can talk more while we eat.”
“Have you had lunch yet?” my mom asks. “We’re cooking some burgers.”
“No, we haven’t,” I answer.
“We’ll get the grill started. You kids finish up the vegetables,” my dad instructs. There’s still unease laced into his tone, but with my mom’s uncomplicated attempt to move forward with an invitation to lunch, he goes along with it.
My parents pick up a tray of uncooked patties and walk outside toward the grill. Everett and I are left in the kitchen.
“That could’ve gone worse,” Everett comments.
“I told you, you had nothing to worry about.”
He leans down and places a small peck to the corner of my mouth. “You said you love me.”
I give a playful pout. “Was that not already obvious?”
“No, it was,” he agrees. “But it’s nice to hear you say it.”
“Well, I love you.”
He kisses me again, but this time, he lets it linger and settle. “Say it again.”
“I love you.”
He closes his eyes, and his forehead meets mine, and I can almost feel all the disquiet and fear dissipate off of him. “I love you, too, Teeny.”
Teeny
NOW
“What?”
Everett innocently shrugs a shoulder, ducking his head just as a smirk lifts the corners of his lips. “Nothing.”
