AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“It will help,” Mom finally speaks. “I keep stock of it for when Ray prunes the tree.”
“Prune it? I’d kill it,” he mumbles.
Dad chuckles under his breath. “There’s been times I’ve thought about it, son.”
Franklin manages a smile. It’s small, but it’s there.
The ice breaks, and the tension in the room eases.
Mom hobbles to the cupboard and grabs another box. She places it on the table. Judging by Franklin’s expression, he’s noticed her limp. She slides the medication across the table with a glass of water. “You should get checked out tomorrow.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Gilbert. I apologize for the interruption. I hope you’re enjoying your special day. I have some flowers in the car.”
“You do?” I ask. He always surprises me. “For my mom?”
“I didn’t want to be presumptuous and assume I would be invited in. Could you please get them?”
He hands me the remote to his car. I dash out, not wanting to leave Franklin alone for long when he’s feeling awkward.
The bouquet is tied with a pink ribbon. The flowers are all the colors of the rainbow and include gerberas, peonies, and carnations. How can I stay angry at him when he does things like this?
Inside, I hand the bouquet to Mom. “How beautiful.”
“Frank.” She shakes her head at him like she does at me when I’ve bought her something, and she’s told me not to waste my money on her. “They’re beautiful. Thank you.”
I sit beside him and take his hand. “Thank you. Mom tells me not to get her anything and save my money as she has everything she needs.”
His gaze flits around the room, and when our eyes meet, there is a tiny dent between his brows. In that moment, understanding crosses between us. “Your parents are wise in telling you to save your money,” he says.
Gratitude fills me with him coming here to be with my family.
With a smile, Mom hobbles away to get water for the flowers.
“Here, son.” Dad passes Franklin some medication. “This is a bit stronger.” Dad looks at me as though he is letting me in on a secret. “Your mother doesn’t know I take these when I’ve been cut, as I need something stronger than what’s in our cabinet.”
“Dad!” I say under my breath. “You can’t hand out pills without knowing Franklin’s medical history.”
Franklin reads the back of the packet, then throws one down his throat. “It’s fine. I’ve taken these before.”
“Jesus.” I shake my head.
“Can I get you a whiskey?”
Franklin nods at my father. “I’d appreciate a drink, sir.”
28
PENELOPE
Four drinks later,Franklin is incapable of driving.
I text Zara.
I’m driving Franklin back to LA as he’s incapable of driving after drinking with my dad and a host of other things I’ll explain later. Long story. Hope you had a great day with your mom. We’ll catch up during the week.
My cell buzzes. It’s Zara. “I better take this.” I leave the room and explain what has gone down with Franklin after he appeared at my door.
Zara bursts out laughing. “Is he sitting in your kitchen getting drunk with your dad?”
