we're far from the shallow now

“she still lives at home with me, yeah.” he knew diana would move out eventually, but topher was glad to still have his daughter around. they were extremely close. “yeah, i get you. i moved here from san francisco. it was definitely an adjustment. it’s a lot quieter here, but it’s not bad or anything, just different.” 

He smiled, he couldn’t imagine his home without his children. “Are you two close?” He inquired. “Definitely agree with you there. Not bad, just different. It’s been an adjustment but I feel good about the move. We’re closer to family and I think it’s more family focused here than in New York. More parks here, too, which is good when you have kids as wild as I do.” Jeremy chuckled.

“i’m not too fussed either way. i’m happy with one kid, but if i happened to end up in a situation where i would have more, i’d be happy with that too. i’m not against the idea, but i’m not in a relationship or anything at the moment.” topher explains, shrugging. he loved being a dad, but he wasn’t sure if it was in the cards for him to have more. “how’re you liking it here?”

“That’s a good place to be, open to the possibility but not set either way.” He smiled. “Does your daughter live in town? Or elsewhere?” He questioned. “It’s not bad, smaller than I’m used to, but it’s more of a family community than New York was and I’m thankful for that. The girls love it here, and seem to be settling in and making new friends so I’m happy. I commute to the city a lot for work, though, so I get my fix of the hustle and bustle.”

Avi grumbled under his breath. The man wasn’t wrong, but hell if he wasn’t completely exhausted lately. “Fine. Is what it is. Cars come in, we fix em.” He shrugged and left it at that. He didn’t want to talk about the shop. The shop had recently become a sort of weird place for him to think about. His favorite place to be and a complete annoyance all at the same time. Tinkering in his own garage had actually become preferred on most days. Especially with the buzz of his friends constantly coming in and out, distracting him from any real thought or trouble. 

Jeremy leaned casually against the wall, peering over to his friend as he worked. Jeremy was far from a handyman in any regard, but especially when it came to cars. His father never knew how they worked, either, and as a result never taught him anything about them, so he was mostly left to his own devices. But that’s what friends like Avi were for. “Well, at least things are steady. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my families cars.” He complimented with a smile. “How are things otherwise?”

“Of course my sister would marry a big family guy. Maybe you should write my mom a letter. Maybe she’ll actually come visit if you’re the one reaching out.” Since she seemed to say no to everyone else that tried. “Yeah hard to be close to someone that left when you were like eight and then never really seen since. You know a lot has changed in the last twenty-two years. I don’t wet the bed anymore,” She joked. “Well what girl doesn’t love to be spoiled? I’ll have to stop by and see them sometime.” Actually finally meet them. “Those are all good things but with eleven other kids around you can see why my mom had a hard time with her I bet. She never made things easy for her.”

“If you’re gonna hang out in the garage then you gotta at least hand me the damn tools.” He slid out from under the car with a grumpy expression. “What’s the point of havin company if you aren’t here to help?” He stood up and grabbed the wrench off of his tool box before disappearing under the car again. “I gotta stop taking cars at my own place. Makes it feel like work when I’m a at home. From now on if someone wants work done, they bring their damn car to the shop like everyone else.”

Jeremy cocked a brow, chuckling to himself. “What, are you gonna add me to the payroll if I do?” He questioned jokingly. “I’m mostly just here for you to change my oil like you said you would, but next time I’ll make sure you’re not in a mood before I drive over.” He teased his friend, knowing the man was making an exception to help him off work hours but Jeremy had a hefty wallet and was willing to pay for the special treatment. “Hey, come on, don’t say that. At least I pay you for the help outside of work hours, plus, you live so close to me and it’s just more convenient.” He pointed out. “How’s the shop been going anyway? Steady?”

Eden gave Jeremy an amused look, trying not to burst out into laughter. He was right, though. She had never been too discreet when they were making love, especially where volume was concerned. “You know you love it.” She teased, playfully slapping his arm. “Whatever you say then. If they end up knocking on the door, you’ll have to deal with them.” She chuckled, her hand moving to rest against his face, her thumb caressing his cheek, feeling the stubble on the pads of her fingers.

She grinned as she thought about the great things their daughters might get up to when they are older, she couldn’t wait to see the amazing women they’ll grow into. “You’re not being a sap, baby. You’re being a dad. Of course you’ll be proud.” She reassured. As he continued to talk, she chuckled. “You say that now, Jer, but when I’m making you go to the store at 3am for ice cream and pickles, you probably won’t be too impressed. But I love you too. Always.”

Her eyes examined him as he laid next to her, she already knew what he was thinking, it was as if their minds were in sync. “Good, because I could really go for some pepperoni pizza tonight.” She replied, giggling loudly as he laid on top of her. “You think so, hm? You are insatiable, my love. But of course… you know I’m always up for this kind of celebrating…” At that, she leaned back in, returning his kiss with just as much passion, her tongue grazing against his.

Jeremy couldn’t help but coo in agreement. “You’re right; I do.” He confirmed confidently. From the time they met until now, they had always been trying new things and experimenting in the bedroom. They had incredible physical chemistry, and were definitely very much in love to anyone who saw them in passing. They could hardly keep their hands off of each other. “Let’s just hope that doesn’t happen. I bought a big house for a reason, I’m not ready to have that talk with them.” He chuckled.

He smiled. “You’re right. Thanks for helping me be such an incredible father, I couldn’t do it without you. Your love for them is palpable, it inspires me every day. I love you so much. Thanks for giving us a second chance, I can’t imagine life without you.” He whispered his confession, kissing her sweetly once more. “Anything you want, love, at any time. I’ll get it, no questions asked. Just because I love you that much.” He reminded her with a grin, “Besides, it’s training for when I have to wake up and change diapers. I should be thanking you.”

Eden’s nose scrunched up at her husband’s next words. “Gross, babe. I don’t even want to think about them hearing us… maybe I need to be quieter just incase.” She chuckled, shaking her head, brushing away the thought. As they continued to talk about the baby, she couldn’t keep the smile off her face. “You’ll remember. For sure. When it comes time for it, it’ll be as if you never stopped.” A laugh escaped her lips at that, shrugging a little.

“I know what you meant, sweetheart. I love that, though. They are strong, confident girls and I’m over the moon about that. They’ll grow up to be amazing women, I know that.” She replied before leaning back into the kiss. 

“Thank you. I promise I won’t. And remember that I’m your rock, too. Even while I’m getting fatter and moodier, I’ll always be here for you.” She chuckled, mirroring his grin. “I love you. In fact, I adore you.”

The blonde watched her man with a look of love in her eyes. “Of course, they’re valid. They always will be. We can be embarrassing parents together for the rest of our lives. Deal?” She quipped, leaning back until she was laying full on the bed, her hand not moving from her stomach. “That’s good to know… but on another note, should we just order pizza for dinner? I really can’t be bothered to cook right now, and I think this is cause for celebration.”

Jeremy shrugged. “Hey, I’m just saying!” He replied, laughing and shaking his head. “I don’t want to think about it, either, but you’re not exactly quiet... Not that I mind, though.” He promised. “Just keep being loud, the house is big enough, I’m sure we’re safe.” Jeremy offered, hoping to God his children hadn’t ever heard them. They would be scarred for life. “Hopefully, at least I’ll have you by my side to help me through it.” He kissed the tip of her nose, the two of them made a great team.

“Yes, they are. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish in their futures. I’m so proud of them. Ugh, look at me, turning into a sap.” He kissed her back happily, tongue teasing her lower lip. “You are my rock, you got that right. And I love you in all your forms, pregnant, fat, and moody are just as good as any other.” He promised her. “I adore you, my love. I love you more than anything.”

He let out a chuckle, “For sure. Deal.” He agreed happily. He nodded in agreement. “Pizza sounds great....” He trailed off, quickly rolling on top of her carefully before he laid on top of her, balancing above her on his fore arms. “Definitely cause for celebration and pizza will be perfect... but first, I think we have some celebrating to do on our own... if you know what I mean.” He smirked, kissing her passionately.

“JERE-BEAR, do you really want me of all people giving an embarrassing speech? I’m pretty sure I’m gonna cause at least four heart attacks,” they joked, but only partially. If asked, they would perform like an absolute lunatic if that’s what Jeremy wanted of them. That’s just kind of what friends did. “It’s an herb that you burn to kick all the boys off your yard after you showed them your milkshake.” Arizona cleansed their house pretty regularly. It was good to do so in a small town, considering how exposed everyone would be to each other’s demons. “Hey, now! I’d only disturb shit if you ignore me. Gimme attention and I’ll be a good ghost.” Lie. They were gonna mess with Jeremy regardless of whether they were properly attended to or not. Why have ghost powers if not to use them for a little evil? “I’ll put ‘conceited’ on the list.” A chuckle. “That’s a good question…I’d have to ask my teachers. Which, coincidentally, also happen to be the ‘rents.” They used to make jokes about being passed simply to get out of their parents’ hair. Trying to teach Arizona anything scholastic was like pulling teeth. “That’s the spirit! You are in your prime. Sexy, seasoned, and fucking like a race horse since apparently you don’t need help getting it up.”

Jeremy thought about what they said for a moment, a chuckle rolling off his tongue. “Who else is gonna shake things up at the funeral if not for you?” He pointed out with a raised eyebrow. Jeremy couldn’t even begin to understand what the other had explained, brows furrowing in confusion. “An herb? Like pot?” He inquired cluelessly. “Wait, who has a milkshake? What boys are looking for my dairy beverage?” He asked cluelessly. Maybe he was more out of touch than he thought he was. “I’d be the most friend ghost host.” He promised with a soft laugh, taking a sip of his drink. “Good, I’m glad you’ve taken my suggestion into consideration.” He nodded, “Oh, yes, home schooled... explains a lot.” He teased playfully. “You got it. I do very well for myself in that department, thank you very much. Even more adventurous in the bedroom than I was when I was your age now that I have more time to dedicate to romancing my wife and really finding out what makes her tick.”

“thanks.” topher chuckles, offering jeremy a smile. “healthy is always the most important thing, i would say. diana’s my only child. but i never say never.” he adds, shaking his head. “about sixteen years now.” 

“Definitely, the rest is fine by me so long as both the child and my wife are okay when all is said and done.” He expressed. “Never say never for sure. It’s funny, before I met my wife I never imagined I’d have kids but now I can’t imagine my life without them.” He raised his brows. “Oh, long time. That’s great. I just moved here less than a year ago.”

Noah smiled as she sat on the matts, looking him over curiously. Noah always needed a gym buddy to hang out with while she works out. And he seemed nice. And actually around her age.

“I’m Noah. Nice to meet you!”

Noah added with a smile, laying back down so that he can hold onto her sneakers.

He offered her a smile, keeping a firm grip on her ankles and sneakers to keep her steady on the gym mat she was settling herself on. “Great to meet you, Noah. Are you new in town, or have you lived here for a while?” His wife always encouraged him to make new friends, and what better way than at the gym? He peered around the gym. “This gym seems nice, it’s my first time here. Do you recommend I get a membership?”

“no fountain of youth here, sorry.” topher says apologetically, giving jeremy a smile. “congratulations. you’re never too old to be a parent, i don’t think.” he adds, giving the man’s hand a shake. “topher. it’s nice to meet you.”

“Well, even without it, you look pretty youthful.” He complimented with a grin. “Thank you. I’m ecstatic. I’ve got two great daughters, so my wife and I are hoping for a boy; but as long as the baby is healthy, the specifics don’t matter.” He agreed, hoping his statement was true and that he wasn’t going to be a no fun, old dad. “Pleasure to meet you, man. How long have you lived in town?”

“We will be fine. They will definitely love having a little baby to help look after, the main thing will be them getting used to a baby crying at ungodly hours.” She shrugged, the smile still on her face. “Right? Another baby in the house will be wonderful, and it’ll keep us on our toes, and I’m glad you’ll be able to be around more.” She added with a nod. “You think so? I try to be. And you’re an amazing father. The best.”

Eden feigned offense, a hand flying up to rest against her chest. “Hey, I don’t walk all over you!” She teased, a laugh following her words. “Yes, strong women. That’s what we want for them.” She agreed, smiling into the kiss upon feeling his hands against her stomach. “Our little baby… I’m so happy.”

The sense of relief was still ever present as he continued to reassure her. “Good. I wouldn’t know what to do if you were.” She said quietly, glad that she didn’t have to deal with that. Her smile returned at his next statement. “Thank you, darling. I’ll hold you to that.”

An amused look grace her features at his idea, and she let out a giggle. “God, that’s such a dad joke, Jer. But I’m so down with it. I love you, our girls and our little one. All I need is the four of you.”

Jeremy chuckled. “Fair point, love. Though, our house is pretty big, they might not even hear it from all the way in their room. They don’t hear us in here making noise almost every night.... At least I hope not.” He shuddered playfully, beaming over at her. “Definitely will keep us on our toes. Here’s hoping I remember how to change a diaper....” He trailed off, sure it would come back to him, just like riding a bike. “I know so.” Jeremy promised her, smiling. “Well, thank you love. I appreciate that. We make a great team.”

He shook his head, “No, no. I know that you don’t! But raising them to be strong like you is a good thing, because then they don’t let other people walk over them.” He clarified. He smiled into the kiss. “I’m very happy, too.”

“Don’t worry about it, love. I’m here for you through it all, okay? No matter what, I’m your rock.” The man reminded his wife, cuddling closer to her. “I would expect nothing less.” He admitted with a grin. “I love you.”

He shrugged defensively, “Well, to be fair... I am a dad, thus my dad jokes are valid, okay?” He defended himself playfully, another chuckle escaping his lips. “I couldn’t agree more, babe. You four are my everything.”

So Eden hadn’t even taken her husband to see their mother at least? Now that was taking this whole being ashamed of your past thing to a new extreme. Even Chana, who never mentioned her family in any of her interviews, had gone back a few times since leaving. Sure it was mainly just to see Chaya but at least she had gone. “I’m sure they’d love to meet you. The basics? Do I dare ask what she said about me? The girls would be so spoiled if you took them. Hard not to be with all those aunts and uncles,” She laughed. “Well I have done a few action films so I may have a few secret moves,” Chana jokingly winked at him. “I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that’s the oldest. I think my mom just said she was a handful because she was so independent. Didn’t want to listen to mom sometimes.”

BLUE eyes were filled with mirth as they listened to the confirmation of the friendship between Jeremy and Arizona. “I’m gonna hold you to this. Like, even if I die before you do. My ghostly ass is still gonna be trying to hang out with my bestie. No sage burning,” they said, only partially kidding. They did fully intend on haunting Jeremy, but only in a Casper the Friendly Ghost kind of way. “I’m also talking with Webster about getting my face attached to the word ‘sexy’ but that’s a long process,” Arizona joked. They let out a laugh, then, and scrunched up their nose. “Well, yeah, kinda! I thought the meme had some truth to it. You know…bladder’s in the balls. Or the ovaries or whatever.” The certainty in Jeremy’s voice that urine wasn’t stored where they believed it to be made them question what other meme content wasn’t rooted in actual facts. “You so totally are that old, but you’re a cool old guy. Did you use Viagra? I won’t judge you if you did.”

Jeremy cocked a brow, “You’d better not die before me. Who else is there to give an embarrassing speech at my celebration of life?” He challenged them, laughing. “What is sage?” He asked, his age showing. As hip with the times as Jeremy claimed to be, Arizona was just way cooler than him and that was a simple fact. “I don’t even want to think of the kind of ghost you’d be.... Probably a real shit disturber.” He reasoned. Rolling his eyes, he shot Arizona a pointed look, “Get them to put you down by ‘conceited’ too, yeah?” Jeremy rolled his eyes once more. “How did you graduate high school?” He teased them. His brows raised. “Well... thank you for saying that I’m cool, but I am in the prime of my life. Not old yet, okay, give me a few more years.” He insisted, scoffing. “Absolutely not. I don’t need any assistance in that department, I assure you.”

“well, thanks.” topher replies, laughing softly. “i was young when she was born. there’s no real secret, really.”

Jeremy laughed, “Well, you’ve got me there. Logic trumps my idea of a proverbial fountain of youth, I guess.” He smiled, “I was a bit older when my girls were born, and now my wife is pregnant again and I feel sort of bad that my youngest will have an old dad... Though, I like to think I’m young at heart. I like to keep active.” He explained, extending his hand out the other man. “I”m Jeremy, by the way.”

“Well, I’d be in the wrong job if I couldn’t give him that, I am his replacement parent for the week until his parents can come home to be with him” He replied as he looked at the man. “ How old are the two you have now?”

“Well, he’s lucky to have you. You seem to really care about him. Do you have any children of your own?” He asked, smiling. “They’re 9, almost ten. Twin girls, used to be quite a handful when they were younger but now they’re mostly angles. Mostly.” Jeremy chuckled. “My wife is actually pregnant with our third child, though.”

“so today someone kept insisting that i was my daughter’s brother, not her father. apparently I’m too young looking to have an adult daughter? there was a compliment in there somewhere, but i think I missed it.” topher says with a laugh, shaking his head. “she’s twenty, for the record.”

“You do look pretty young.” He agreed, “I would have had no idea your daughter was twenty... Maybe ten, or an early teenager... Where is this fountain of youth you’ve found?”