"You have to draw it somewhere." I get it, now. I really do. It's hard being a parent. You try your best, but a lot of times you fuck that up.
"I guess." She leans back into the couch. "Maybe you are wise."
"Only maybe?"
She nods. "You... you annoy the crap out of me, Brendon, but you... you're a good brother."
"High praise."
"I'm trying to be earnest. It's not my forte." She stares into my eyes. "I know I was pissed about everything with Kaylee, but I was wrong. I'm sorry. You were just looking out for her. And for me. I don't know what I'd do without her."
"Me either."
"Huh?"
"She's half the reason why you're in college now."
Emma nods. "You push college a lot for someone who barely graduated high school."
"And?"
"It's very parent like."
"I'm your legal guardian."
"Not anymore. I'm eighteen."
"You want to move out and pay your own rent?"
"Are you really throwing down an ultimatum?"
"No." I'd never do that to Em.
"It's just. I do appreciate you taking care of her. Even if I think it's weird you two are hanging out so much."
"Thanks."
"And... I do appreciate you taking care of me too." She leans in for a hug. "I love you."
"Love you too."
She settles back into her seat and nods to the TV. "Okay. Enough feelings. Let's watch some spy action."
I chuckle. Em is funny nervous. It's rare. "You working two Thursdays from now?"
"Why?"
"I have a surprise. For me, you, and Kay."
"Same as every Thursday. Four to eight."
"Good. You two can meet me at the shop. We'll go together."
"What is it?"
I shrug who knows.
"Don't make me take back everything I said.