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The talk turns to the charity Ted and my mom work with, and it’s hard to remember that just a few days ago, I was sure he was after her money.
“I have a question for ya,” Avery says.
“Shoot,” Ted says.
“You’re moving in with Clarice? Not the other way around?”
He nods.
“Hmm.”
“What does that mean?” I ask.
“It’s interesting because Ted could probably have a mansion.”
“I have several, but only one in Texas.”
I glance at my mother, who is sipping her water as if this is normal. I mean, when I asked him questions, she got upset.
“And Clarice, please don’t be offended. I’m assuming your house isn’t that big?”
She shakes her head.
“Hmm.”
“What the hell does that mean?”
She tosses me a look. “You know it’s a love match. I mean, I’ve known a few football players.”
“Is this about that Chet?”
“God, no. He was a two-timing small-town jerk. He didn’t have the talent, and more importantly, the drive, to get into the NFL. I was talking about Demarcus Fallon and Wes Jenkins. I taught them social media, so they could promote their brands and charities.”
“Oh.”
“But as nice as those two were, they were football players and thought the world revolved around them. Ted is rearranging his life to fit into your mother’s life. That’s damned amazing if you ask me.”
I look over at my mother, who is smiling. “Is that why you’re moving in together in your house?”
She smiles. “It’s closer to the university.”
Avery smiles at me. “See. So, stop worrying about your mama.”
“What makes you think I’m worrying about my mom?”
“You worry. It’s one of your defining characteristics. Most people would find it nosy to get your top-level detectives to check me out, but I don’t. You’re a caregiver.”
I’m staring at her like she’s lost her damn mind. My mother’s laugh cuts through my sudden shock. I glance at her.
“Sorry, Jon, but you must admit she’s right about you.” She looks at Avery. “He was always like that. Always wanted to take care of me. He was a good boy. A good man.”
“Of course he is. He had you raising him.”
I blink at her, confusion clouding my thoughts. The waitress steps up with the check. I have so many questions crowding my head. And I know when that happens, I tend to brood.
Soon we’re on the sidewalk in front of the diner.
“Your grandmother is expecting you for dinner.”
