Pretty Hurts (Left 1.50)

“Yeah, man, don’t let her get caught unawares by any of this.”

“I don’t know if she’s going to stay.”

“What? Why not? You guys are sickeningly in love with one another. I’ve seen it firsthand.”

“Because she doesn’t want kids. How can I ask her to change her life plan for me?”

“Whoa. First of all, you don’t know if this is your kid, and second of all, you can’t put words in her mouth. You have to lay all your cards on the table, and see where they fall. Don’t count her out because of what Marilyn did. That bitch is determined not to die off. She’s like fucking He who shall not be named.”

I snort. “Thank you for that laugh. I needed it.”

“I’m serious, though, explain it all to Ef, and don’t jump to any conclusions.”

Thunder rumbles overhead, and I can’t help but think a storm is an appropriate end to my day.

“I will. I’m going to clean up and tell her when she gets here. I’m cooking dinner tonight. It’ll help keep me busy and sane.”

Ad clamps his hand on my shoulder. “For the record, you’d make an excellent father. However, I know that’s not what you want, so I’m hoping for your sake this isn’t your baby.”

“Thank you for understanding and not judging me, brother. I know to some people my response would seem cold.”

“No, I always understood why you opted out of parenthood. You spent your early twenties to late thirties doing that for your siblings. I saw the struggle you and your mom went through. I get it. I’m proud to have such an amazing friend in my corner. Whatever you need, I’m here for you.”

I nod, unable to talk around the lump. I swallow. “I appreciate it. Go home to your girls, man. I’m solid now.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah. Efia will be here in a few more hours, so I won’t be alone either.”

“All right. Anything you need, just call.”

Rising from the table, I walk him out. I close the door, wondering if my life is truly about to take a drastic change.

I call my lawyer, explain the situation, and set up a meeting.

***

The rain is coming down in sheets when Efia knocks on the door. I open it up, and she walks in with her robot umbrella and matching rain boots.

“When it rains here it lets loose.”

“We need it,” I say as I help her climb out of her boots and place her umbrella in the brass stand by the door.

“It’s true.” She tilts her head back for a kiss. I pour all my passion into the lip lock, wondering if this will be the last chance I get to taste her before she hauls ass out of my life. I tilt my head and sip from her like she’s a fine wine. We separate for air, and she places her hand on my chest.

“Wow.”

“I missed you.”

“Is everything okay?”

I sigh. “No, it’s not.” I take her hand and lead her into the kitchen.

“Did I do something?”

“No, darling. It’s nothing you did. My past it coming back to haunt me.”

“Give it to me straight, don’t draw it out.”