Better With Age

“Because that was exactly what they were waiting for me to do.”

“Then why come back now?”

“Because she’s special.”

“You know what happens to special people in a place like this. She was in danger from the moment Emily confirmed my pregnancy.”

“Thank you, for reminding me that my life sounds like an episode of reality TV.”

“Why?”

“I think you mean who, since I’m guessing you heard me correctly the first time.”

“She’s a sarcastic, stubborn, spoiled teenager with a rather irritating sense of humor and…your blue eyes.”

“So, let me get this straight. You skipped town, had a kid, raised said kid without a word, and now you’re back to try and convince me she’s mine because she ‘has my eyes’?”

“Other than the reason why?”

“I know you’re mad at me but, that pout practically demands an explanation.”

“Fine, explain away. Better be one damned good story.”

“As much as I loved sacrificing so much of my social life to that place, I’ve probably had enough nostalgia for one day. Assuming, of course, you want to have this talk.”

“What’s there to talk about? You left, you came back. You didn’t call or text. You aren’t dead. The end.”

“Are we skipping the pleasantries then?”

“If you want pleasantries, I recommend the Grill. Decent food, deafening music, and people willing to ignore that you disappeared without a word.”

‘It’s been a while’ seems like a bit of an understatement.