After listening to him talk about how he’s trying to help Savannah, I sense more of a change in him. I also sense the kind of responsibility that Harlow and I have wanted to see in him for a long time.
Maybe I need to give him the space to see this through. To not only help his friend but also to mature some more himself.
I nod. “I’ll drop it. But she needs to talk with her parents about this at some point.”
“Yeah, Dad, I know. I’ll help her get there.” He goes back to his punching bag, hitting it twice before asking, “Can you spot me?”
I eye the weights. “Yeah.” I can’t recall the last time Keaton asked me for any kind of help. I’ve got a million things to do this afternoon, but there’s no way I’m saying no to him.
He stops punching the bag and removes his gloves. “Have you got any time later to help me with my bike?”
“I’ve got all afternoon.” I’ll stay up late to get my shit done. “Are you going out tonight or do you wanna help me barbecue some steak for dinner?”
He gives me a pained look. “You didn’t get that same steak as last time, did you? Mum hated that and never shut up about it for a week.”
“No, I went to a different butcher.” I’ll never make the mistake of buying from that other butcher again. Keaton’s right: Harlow did complain for a week about how awful the steak was.
He makes his way to the weights. “I’m not going out tonight. I’ll help you with the barbie.”
It’s been a long time since the two of us have gotten on this easily. His teens have strained our relationship to the point where I sometimes find myself not even stepping foot into situations that hold potential landmines. Just to keep the fucking peace.
I know a new landmine is around the corner. There’s always something on the horizon. But I’m fucking grateful for this easy mood between us today and will make the most of it.
Harlow’s POV
10:15 p.m.
Madison
Willow’s having a moment.
Me
What kind of moment?
Madison
The kind that will send J crazy. She’s not sure about her dress now.
Me
How will that drive J crazy? Wouldn’t it drive you crazy?
Madison
It will drive him crazy because after it drives me crazy, he’ll have to hear all about it over and over.
Me
Well, if us mothers have to take care of all this shit, the least our husbands can do is deal with us while we deal with it.
Madison
So true. Are you still in love with the dress you got today?
Me
I’m about to try it on again and see.
