Dante closes his eyes, and it’s then I see his face, Troy’s face. It’s unreal how close they are in likeness. Anyone in the same room with them could easily draw the right conclusion, which makes me nervous. I’m not ready to uncap the truth just yet. It’s only been a couple months. I’ve decided to wait Troy out. Though he’s presenting himself in a capable and more responsible light, this is still new. He could get bored and decide family life is too mundane for him. If that’s the case, he’s still just a neighbor. It’s the safest way to play this.
Dante blows out the six candles easily.
“Are you going to tell me your wish?”
“Nope.”
“Good. I like that you’re superstitious.”
I smile down at him as he digs into his pancakes. “So tonight, Auntie Parker is coming over. Are you sure you don’t want to invite kids from your class to your party?”
“Nope. But can I invite Troy?”
“I’ve already invited him. He’s coming.”
He looks up at me. “You told him to come over?”
“Yeah, why not? He’s a new friend.”
“Is Troy your boyfriend?”
“No.”
“Because you’re too old?”
Blink.
Blink.
“Yes, because Mommy is old, and her skin’s no longer supple.”
“What’s stupple mean?”
“That’s supple. It means I’m a weathered old fart who has nothing on the coeds.”
“What’s a coed?”
“Eat your breakfast. I’ll pull a towel for your shower.” I kiss the crown of his head and leave him to it. He catches me on the way out.
“Mommy?”
“Yes, baby?”
“You’re still pretty, even if you’re old.”
“Dante, I’m twenty-nine. I’m not old.”
“How many times is that more than what I am?”
“Almost five.”
His eyes widen. “You’re five times as old as me?”
It’s a good thing we don’t build our self-esteem off kid compliments, I’d be under psychiatric care.
“Yes, Dante.”
“Well, if you want, I’ll pretend you aren’t old at my party.”