“Yeah, and do yourself a favor and bone your neighbor, because you’re missing out on the best sex of your life.”
“No.”
“Fine.”
“Love you. Don’t Sake and drive.”
“You know I won’t. Konnichiwa!”
I giggle. “Still Japanese, Parker. And I think that means hello.”
“What’s your point?”
Troy
I ride the high my whole drive home, eager to try and catch Dante before he goes to sleep. I send off a last-minute text to Clarissa just before I head into our neighborhood in hopes she can keep him awake just a few minutes longer. My phone rings, and I answer without checking to see who it is, my smile already in place. She doesn’t bother saying hello, but dives right in.
“Wooo weee, boy, I’m so damned proud of you. You killed it tonight.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
“I texted you to see if you wanted to celebrate with Luis and me. He wanted to buy you a beer.”
“Sorry, I got caught up in the post-game and just wanted to shower and get home.”
“So, no party tonight?”
“Plenty of them, but I’m opting out.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah, I’ve got something better in mind.” Instead of picturing Dante’s reception, I see Clarissa on the Jumbotron, dressed in a Grand hoodie and matching beanie, holding our son close. She was glowing, her smile stretched across her face, and something inside of me flipped the minute I saw them.
“So, what’s the big plan?”
Win her.
“Just going to take it easy.”
“The news is highlighting the game now.”
“No shit?”
“Yeah! They’re talking about you, son! HEY, RECORD THAT!”
“On it,” I hear Luis reply. “Good job, Troy,” he says by way of conversation. Luis is soft-spoken and treats Mom like gold, we aren’t exactly best friends, but we’re friendly. As long as he treats her well, we have no issues.
“Tell him I said thanks.”
“I will, and you’re getting drafted,” she adds proudly. “I know it.”
“Let’s hope so. Then I can finally buy your dream house.”
“I’m happy here.”
“You’ll be happier on that front porch you’ve been dreaming about. Keep dreaming, Mom. I’m going to give it to you.”
“You earned that. I wouldn’t take a dime from you. I hope you know I don’t expect that.”