She shakes her head.
“A woman living along should be careful. You’ve already done more than me. I haven’t even been to the station yet.”
“Because you’re smart.”
“Lazy and distracted,” I amend.
She smiles. “Thanks for letting me talk it out.”
“Anytime, and I meant every word.” I set the cheddar slices, bagged ham, and mayonnaise on the counter before I move to grab the bread.
“I don’t want to let fear win. They’ve taken enough. When do I make a stand? How do I live knowing me turning a blind eye could affect someone else down the line?”
“You can’t think like that. You don’t control what they do. In the end, the villain is the one responsible for his vile acts.”
“You make it sound so simple. Can I do anything to help?”
“You can cut up an apple. I have a slicer on the counter.”
“I’m on it.” She washes her hand in the sink, and we work together to complete his meal as we talk about lighter things. We’re almost done with Nemo when the doorbell rings a second time.
“That’s probably Mommy, buddy,” I say as I pause the movie.
“No. I want to stay here with you, Daddy.”
I kiss his head. “I know, little dude, and once Daddy is better this will get back to normal okay?”
He pouts. “When?”
“A few more weeks. Okay? Hang in there for me, pal.”
He sighs and stands from the couch, dragging his feet as we move to the door. I open the door for Allie.
“Why the long face, kiddo?”
“I wanted to finish Nemo,” he says with a deep sigh.
She rubs the back of his head. “Sorry, buddy, not today. Were you good for your dad?”
“Yes, and we got to hang out with Ms. Quinn who makes monsters for a living. I want to make monsters, Mama.”
“What?” She glances over my shoulder at Quinn who remained on the couch. “Guys day, huh?”
“It was a surprise visit,” I say with a shrug.
“Yeah, I bet,” she snaps.
“So can I?” Rolly asks again.
“Can you what?” Allie asks blankly.
“Make monsters when I grow up?”
She looks at me, lost.
“She’s a makeup artist.”
“Ahhh. Sure you can, baby. I think it’d be neat. Did you feed him?”