He goes back to his coloring, and I look out the tiny window as clouds pass, carrying me back to the place I said I would never return.
A few hours later, a familiar bell rings out and a warmth and smell hits me that makes the air in my lungs freeze.
Ski.
He has his back turned, drying a mug with the towel that usually hangs over his shoulder. “Be with you in a moment.” His deep voice rattles through my chest, and finally my tears fall.
“Hey, old man.” My voice breaks as much as my heart is.
He turns, and when I expect to find shock and anger, I don’t. I find relief.
“You came home.”
And I know he doesn’t mean Aurora; he means to Mill’s.
He comes around the bar and embraces me, my hand still clinging to Rune’s small one. My son has been quiet this whole time.
“I’m so sorry, Ski. I should have—”
“Stop, sweetie.” He looks to Rune. “I know what you have been protecting.”
“Hi, I’m Rune.” His small hand extends out, and Ski takes it in his large meaty hand, giving it a firm shake.
“It’s nice to finally meet you, Rune.”
“Rune, this is your Grandpa Ski.” For the first time since I have met this devil dog, I see his composure break.
“Grandpa.” His voice cracks, and his eyes fill with tears.
“You’re my mommy’s dad?” He asks this to Ski, but I answer him.
“Yes, little bird. This is my father.” I kneel down so that I am face to face with Rune.
“Like Everett is my daddy?”
“Kind of. Everett is your daddy in blood and your daddy in your heart. Grandpa Ski and I don’t share the same blood like you and Everett, but in my heart, he is my father.”
"I see." Rune says, twisting his lips in deep thought.
“Old man, what do you say? I could really use a Leo…”
He nods and goes to make the coffee. I walk Rune to a table and give him his books. “Hey sweetie. Mommy needs to talk with Grandpa Ski. Can you sit here for a little bit?”
“Sure.” His innocent little face is so patient and understanding. How did I get so lucky? Oh right. His father is patient and understanding. And on my shit list right now.
When I take a seat at the bar, Ski sets down my Leo, and my fingers immediately find the rim of the warm mug.
“I love that you’re here, sweetie, but why are you?”
“It’s a long story.” I keep my eyes on my coffee. Watching it mix.
“No need to tell me. Ev and I talk every Sunday. I’m caught up. Although last I heard, you two moved in together, so why are you running?”
My eyes find his. “Is it that obvious?”
He’s silent. He doesn’t need words to make me feel safe. Just his presence soothes me.
“Natasha showed up two days ago. She’s pregnant, and the baby is Everett’s.”
