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Do you think I’m about to drop that bomb when I don’t have the most essential piece of that puzzle? I’m not dating anyone. Yeah, that’s not gonna fly without a career first.
“You hearing what I’m saying, Cody Cat?”
Oh geez, that name.
“I hear you, Dad. But I don’t think I got the job. Sorry.”
“Listen, don’t be surprised if he calls you in a few days with an offer. And if he doesn’t? Fuck ’em.”
Do you see how awesome he is? I just need a few hours—or maybe days—to gather up my courage and tell my parentswhat I want. And to deliver it in a way that won’t make him disappointed in me.
But first, pie.
My stomach growls when I see a server inside the diner scoop a massive slice of something topped with meringue and pile it onto a plate with a truckload of vanilla ice cream.
“Right,” I say. “Fuck ’em. Fuck ’em all.”
Dad snorts. “Where’d you learn to talk like that, Sweet Cody Bear?”
“Interning? With you?”
“Oh, that’s right…”
“Listen,” I sigh. “I’m gonna visit some friends while I’m here, okay? Clear my head.”
Dad murmurs in agreement. “Good idea. Have some fun in Cincinnati. Then, come home to Florida, and the three of us will put our heads together and figure it out. Just like we always have.”
“Sounds good,” I say, nodding, my eyes darting to the road sign that is most definitely not Cincinnati but reads, “Fate, Kentucky, Population 2,012.”
I send my love to Mom, we say our goodbyes, and I hang up.
I don’t know where I’ve ended up, but it’s far enough away from my problems for now.
For now, lunch and some pie is all I need.
2
Dean
My feet freeze to the spot when I set foot in the diner.
Who. Is. That?
Her lips move as she talks to Ruby, the owner. That smile is so bright and pretty; it’s like a bullet straight to my heart.
“Dean? You need something?”
One of the servers gently nudges me out of the way as she carries a platter of fries and shakes, yet is nice enough to check on me.
“Uh, yeah…” I say. What was I doing here again?
I’m finding it hard to tear my eyes away from the mop of brown curls. The friendly eyes. The cute pantsuit that hugs her every curve.
Another server, Maya, shouts, “Your order’s right here on the counter, Dean. Three burgers and fries, a pint of banana pudding.”
Burgers? Who needs burgers when one’s life has just shifted into sharp focus?
Before I remember what I’m doing here, Maya hands me my takeout bags.
