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“You’re no longer married?”
“No, my husband passed away four years ago. I hope we’re not making you uncomfortable.”
“Oh, no, ma’am. It’s fine. I was just surprised.”
“Brooks? I’m going to go upstairs to let you two talk.”
“All right, Thelma. I’ll be along soon.”
“Alex? It was nice seeing you again. I’m sorry if we shocked you.”
“Yes, ma’am. It’s fine.”
Thelma nodded, then walked up the stairs and disappeared at the top of the landing. Alex faced his father.
“Seriously?” he hissed.
“What? She’s a lovely woman. I’m sixty years old, son, and Thelma is only fifty-five. We’re not dead below the waist.”
“Okay, I didn’t need to hear that.” Alex sighed. “I’m happy you’re seeing someone, Dad, but my English teacher?”
“Well, I didn’t know she was one of your teachers until we got to talking, and by then, I was interested in asking her out. Look, Alex, if it bothers you, I’ll stop seeing her.”
“No. It doesn’t bother me—”
“You were never good at lying.”
Alex huffed. “Okay, it bothers me a little, but tenth grade was a long time ago. I’ll get past it.”
“I hope so. I do like her.” Brooks smiled.
“I’m happy for you, Dad. I really am. Hell, you date more than I do.”
Brooks laughed. “That’s just wrong, son. You need to find a good woman and settle down. Have a few kids before I’m too old to enjoy my grandchildren. Oh, what time will you pick me up this evening?”
“About six. I’ll see if I can get a reservation. If not, I’ll call Grant.”
“All right. I’ll see you later.” His father stared at him.
“I get it. I’m going. Damn. How am I supposed to get that image out of my head?” he muttered as he headed for the kitchen.
He pulled his coat on, picked up his hat, and opened the back door.
“I’ll see you this evening.” He stepped onto the porch, placed his hat on his head, jogged down the steps, and climbed into his truck. After a glance at the back door, he shook his head, started the truck, and drove home.
At six, he stopped at his dad’s house, blew the horn, and waited. He saw his dad step onto the porch, close the door, and walk down the steps. He opened the door and slid onto the seat, smiling at Alex.
“I’m hungry,” he said.
“I suppose you worked up an appetite this afternoon,” Alex muttered.
“Are you jealous?” Brooks laughed.
“Damn right, I am. How long have you been seeing her?”
“About two weeks. She’s a great person.”
“I’m happy for you.”
