Saturday arrives, and Mom’s already at work by the time I roll out of bed.I have the whole apartment to myself, and I don’t really know what to do with it.
So, I start with the gym.Then grab a coffee and walk through Central Park.I even wander into a bookstore and lose twenty minutes in the fiction section.But even as I browse the shelves, running my fingers along the spines, my mind drifts to Brant.I wonder what he’s doing right now.If he’s settled into his new office.If he’s thought about me at all since I left.
I grab a book without really looking at the cover, then put it back.You’re here now.This is your life.But my heart doesn’t agree.
By the time I get home, I’m sweaty and a little windblown.
I sit on the sofa and send Dad a text, knowing he’s usually alone on the weekend.
Me:Hey, Dad.I survived the first week.How are you?
I should've called him, but he texts back straight away, so I promise myself next time to call.
Dad:Hey.Tell me more.
I settle on the edge of the sofa and type quickly.
Me:Good.Pretty much thrown in the deep end, but it’s been good.Can’t complain.Just gotta find my feet.
Dad:Yeah, that’s how it goes.New place and new team.
Me:Exactly.
Dad:House is quiet without you.
I smile at the screen.Quiet is probably an understatement.
Me:Have you seen Nancy?
Dad:We’re grabbing brunch tomorrow.
Me:Nice.
Relief washes over me.At least he’s not spending every weekend alone in that house.
Me:How’s the ward?
There’s a pause.
Dad:People have been asking about you.
My fingers hesitate over the screen.I hold back the question I really want to ask.Who, exactly?But I know he won’t answer that.
Still, I know it’s not Brant.He wouldn’t ask.Would he?
I can’t get the question off my mind, so I decide to ask anyway because he can’t grumble at me from here.
Me:And how’s Brant settling into his new position?
There.I’ve asked.I exhale as soon as I hit send.
Dad:He’s thrown himself into it.Works more now than ever.
I shouldn’t be surprised, but it hurts more than expected.
Me:That makes sense.
Of course he would.Work is his armor.
