Pretty Hurts (Left 1.50)

“We need to plan a weekend for you to come out soon,” Amanda states.

“I’d love that. I’ll look at my calendar when I get home, later on tonight,” I reply, committing to making plans. “I’m going to say hi to Dad, and see if Mom needs any help.” Standing, I walk over to my father. In his seventies, he still cuts an impressive figure at six foot one, with a cleanly shaven head, clear skin, and an easy smile that stands out against his dark brown skin. He opens his arms, and I hug him sideways.

“Hi, Dad.”

“There’s my baby girl. How’ve you been?”

“Good. Busy with work and helping Liv plan her gender reveal party.”

“I’m so glad she and her young man made it official. Seemed to me that they were together a lot longer than they let on and just didn’t realize it.”

I laugh. “That’s exactly what happened there.”

“Anyone new for you?” he asks.

I think of Edgar. “Maybe. I’ll let you know when I have more intel.”

His eyebrows shoot up, and I know he wants more information.

“It’s still new. We’re friends, but I think he has potential.”

“Honey, coming from you that says a lot.”

“Don’t tell Mom.”

He pats my shoulders. “Hasn’t your old man always been able to keep a secret?”

“Yes, Daddy, and I love you for that.” I kiss his cheek. “I’m going to go see if Mom needs anything.”

I spend the next couple of hours avoiding my aunt, playing with the kids, and catching up with Amanda and Aren.

“It’s getting late and I know two kids who still need baths, so we’ll excuse ourselves,” Amanda says.

“Aww, Mom, we’re not tired,” Gregory mutters as he blinks slowly.

“Yeah,” Charlotte says around a yawn.

“I know, but I am.” Amanda gives us a wink as she ushers them from the table.

“I’m going to go help,” Aren says.

He’s such a great father. I love seeing him interact with his family.

“Feeling baby fever?” Aunt Rhonda asks.

“Just proud of my big brother,” I reply with a shrug.

“Humph. Tick tock, girl. I’m going to call it a night myself. I’m still feeling a bit jet-lagged.”

“Night, Aunt Rhonda.” And good riddance.

My mom and dad exchange a look, and he stands. “I’ll leave you ladies to talk. Good night, baby girl.” My dad kisses my head as he walks away.

“You want to tell me what’s bothering you?” my mom asks.

I blink. “What?”

“I know you, honey. You don’t let Rhonda get to you, and I’ve sensed a sadness in you for months now. I tried to give you time to work through it, but I can see in your eyes you’re still in a bad place. Is everything okay with work?”