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Oliver was right. Jack did need more time with his son. Not just because Oliver was one of the best people he knew—smart, creative, honest, loving, and fair—but Jack missed him. He missed being part of his son’s life. “And I am closer to you. I’m in your kitchen right now.”
“You know what I mean.”
“I’m not worried. We’ll get together when you’re in LA.”
“I just don’t want you lonely—”
“Oliver, I’m never lonely, and I’ve a lot to do before the semester begins in two weeks. I have a meeting this afternoon as a matter of fact. I still need to find a place to live.”
“Do you want to come back here tonight? You’re welcome to crash here.”
Jack smiled crookedly. “I can afford a hotel room. But thanks for the invite.”
“Should I load your boxes into the car, then? I’ve got everything in the garage.”
“I can do that.”
“I’ll help you.” Oliver reached into the cupboard and pulled out one of his insulated thermoses. He filled it with purified water from a pitcher inside the fridge. “What classes are you teaching?”
“My Chaos and Complexity course, Ecology and the African Savannas, and Biodiversity Conservation Policy.”
Oliver handed him the filled thermos. “You’re the coolest nerd I’ve ever met, Dad.”
“Thank you,” Jack said, giving Oliver a swift hug. “Thank you for breakfast. I’ll strip the sheets and head out to the garage.”
“No, just leave it. I’ll deal with it later.”
“I don’t want you to have to deal with it—”
“Dad, I’ve got it. I’d honestly prefer we pack your car and get you on the road. You don’t know where you’re going, and you don’t want to be late.”
“I’m not a doddering senior.”
Oliver flashed a smile that never failed to make Jack smile. “No, not yet, thank goodness.”
