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“I was hoping you would mention him. I agree, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with him and I think he has the determination to go far here.”
“I’m glad we’re on the same page.” I lean back, pleased with the direction the conversation is going.
“How are things with your dad?”
“The same. They’ll always be the same.” I sigh.
“You’re an adult, Knox. You don’t have to answer to him anymore,” he points out.
In a way, he’s right––everyone’s right. But what happens when I finally stand up to him? What happens to my siblings? What happens to the home we’ve all grown accustomed to? I always told myself that when my siblings left, that would be the day I finally told my dad how I really feel.
“I have more than just myself to think about, Dave.”
“I know you do. Your siblings will follow you anywhere, and they want what’s best for you.”
“I don’t want to ask them to do that.”
“Sometimes we have to ask those we love to do things for us just like we’ve done for them.”
I nod in response––there isn’t really much else to say on the situation.
* * *
An hour later,I find myself sitting in the parking garage of my dad’s law firm. I’m dreading going to his office, because who knows what he needs from me now.
My phone rings just as I’m about to get out of the car.
“What’s up, Kai?” I ask my brother.
“Where are you?”
“I’m at Dad’s office. He called this morning and said he needed to speak to me this afternoon.”
“Knox…” He trails off, but I speak before he can finish.
“Just don’t, okay? I’ve heard it enough lately, and frankly, I’m tired of it.” I hang up the phone, switching it off before sliding it into my pocket.
I’m tired of the same old song and dance with my siblings and everyone else in my life.
“Good afternoon, Mr. Kingston.” Dad’s secretary smiles brightly in my direction. I give her a slight nod before making my way down the hallway.
I don’t bother knocking, because frankly, I’d rather be anywhere but here, and I don’t owe him anything.
“Knox just arrived. I’ll call you back when I’m finished here,” I hear my dad tell whoever is on the other end of the line. He looks irritated with me.
“You said you needed to talk.” I get right to the point. I don’t want to prolong this visit any longer than I need to.
“It’s nice to see you too, son.” My dad’s voice is snarky.
“Let’s cut to the chase and quit pretending like we like each other,” I reply, my patience running thin with him and his games.
His games. That’s funny. Sophia just accused me of playing games last night. Maybe I am my father’s son?
“There’s a benefit for the hospital Friday night. I need you to make an appearance. I can’t make it because I have business in New York this weekend.”
Of course he does.
“Is that all?” A benefit I can do. I don’t mind those.
