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“I did. And boy, was it worth it.”
My dad clears his throat and then moves to the fridge, brushing against Avery in the process, his hand dragging across his lower back, and I see Avery arch into his touch.
Quickly, I look away and focus on a new piece of art hanging up on the wall adjacent to me. It’s a bright abstract floral arrangement, and I get lost in the colors.
“You like that?” my dad asks, setting a bottle of water before me. “Avery painted it.”
I study it and then uncap my water, taking a small sip.
“It’s really good.”
“It is. He’s really talented.”
“Dean, god, stop,” Avery says, his cheeks flushed pink.
“What? It’s really damn good.”
Avery’s eyes flick to my dad and then back to the stove. “Thank you, and as much as I love to talk about how talented I am, we should get the meat on the grill. The mac and cheese is almost done.”
My dad nods and grabs some trays from the fridge, meandering into the backyard and starting the Blackstone.
“That a new grill?” I ask Avery, who turns to face me.
“Yeah, I convinced him to get it. He made a fuss about the cost, but he loves it.”
“I can tell. He’s been talking about getting one for years, but he always said he didn’t have anyone to cook for.”
Avery’s cheeks flush and he peeks up at me. A small smile forms on my lips, and I utter the words before I can stop myself. “I’m glad it’s you.”
His mouth opens and then closes, shaking his head. “It’s nothing… we’re just friends.”
“I can see the way he looks at you. He hasn’t looked at anyone like that in a long time.”
Avery’s cheeks darken and then we both turn to look at my dad, who is throwing the meat on the grill.
“He’s really happy you’re here. He’s been wanting to reconnect. Says that since you started college he’s seen you less.”
“Yeah, I’ve just gotten a bit overwhelmed with my life.”
“Totally makes sense. He’s just glad you’re here for a last-minute invite. On a Saturday. I told him you’d probably have plans…”
I shake my head, lying through my teeth. “No plans.”
Avery looks at me like he doesn’t quite believe it, but he thankfully keeps those thoughts to himself.
“How about we bring everything outside and then we can just chill and watch the sunset? Catch up on life.”
“Yeah, that sounds good,” I say and help Avery carry everything outside.
All through dinner, I can see how happy my presence makes my dad. He smiles and chats happily, looking at me with a twinkle in his eyes. We see each other at the shop but rarely have a chance to really talk. I should make more of an effort to spend more time with him, but it’s hard when our hobbies are so different. I’m not one for rebuilding cars or motorcycle rides. I prefer reading and school. I like going to art museums and spending time people-watching.
Although, with the way my dad is watching Avery, perhaps we could bond over that.
“You have any plans tonight? We could watch a movie…” my dad’s voice trails off, so damn hopeful. I clutch on to my thighs tightly.
I can’t fucking say no. “I could stay for a movie.”
My dad beams and my hands relax.
