I think Mom’s mad at me. She didn’t say nothin’, but her eyes were sad again. They’re like that a lot lately, and I think it’s ‘cause of me. Sometimes, I wish we were normal, and my dad wanted us.
She would be happy ‘cause someone would tell her she’s pretty and bring her flowers, and I’d get to go fishing.
Mom said I shouldn’t be putting pressure on you like that. I just know you’d love her, too, though. She’s pretty, right? She makes the best chocolate chip cookies, too. I sent you some this time. I forgot before.
Do you know when you’ll be home? Maybe we could have a BBQ? I’ll ask mom if she can make her Oreo cheesecake. She loves to bake.
Oh! And you could bring her daisies, they’re her favorite.
Gotta go to bed now!
Riddler
This kid’s breaking my fucking heart. I couldn’t lie and say I’m not attracted as fuck to his mom. She’s gorgeous. Long blonde hair, bright honey-gold eyes, plump lips I could easily get lost in. What pulled me in when I first saw her photo was her smile. It was real, genuine. I’d bet my last dollar she was watching her son when it was taken. That kind of radiance only comes from a deep love.
I pull the box of cookies from the box and see I have a letter from Paisley as well. I was concerned when I wrote her, but I didn’t want her to be blindsided when I show up on their doorstep in a few months.
I don’t know when I decided I wanted this little, broken family to be mine, but it’s done. They’re mine. I just have to convince her of that.
Biting into the first cookie, I moan like a teenage boy getting off for the first time. Holy fuck. The kid wasn’t lying. His mom is a goddess.
Dear Gage,
If you were here, you would feel my bewilderment. I’m speechless and mortified, and I don’t know what to tell you.
I had no idea Tommy felt this way.
Jack, his father… I can’t even write his name without feeling angry.
I’m sorry. I am so sorry. I can’t… Ugh. Obviously, it’s a touchy subject.
Tommy said he asked you to meet us when you come home. After listening to everything he had to say, and against my better judgment, I think it would be good for him.
If you wanted to, that is. There’s no reason for you to say yes and feel pressured. I just wanted you to know that I’d be alright with it.
Just please, don’t disappoint my son.
He… We can’t handle anymore.
Paisley
I wonder if I can ever make her understand that this letter has sealed her fate with me. She might not be able to see it, but I can. She’s interested in what Tommy wants to brew between us as much as me.
I only hope I’m able to pique her interested in getting to know me before I arrive.
Chapter Three
Tommy
It’s here, I just know it! We haven’t heard from Gage in two weeks now, so today has got to be the day he’s written us back.
Mom has secret smiles now after she reads a letter from him, and I think my plan is working.
“Sit still, Tommy. You’re like a jumping jelly bean.” Mom’s face lights up from the front seat of the car as we drive home from school.
Cassie doesn’t bug me as much anymore, and I like that. I can talk to her about Gage, and she asks me what kind of plans he’s making when he comes home. Her face scrunches funny when I tell her fishing; she thinks they stink. Mom does, too, so I’m used to it. Girls just don’t understand. Gage says it’s a great way to provide for your family. I kind of like the sound of that.
“I just know our letters will be here today, though!” I bounce excitedly in my seat, and Mom gets this look on her face. She’s trying not to laugh at me while attempting to remain stern. I like when I can do that to her. We always have the best laughs, and Mom soothes me.