Page 74 of Something Forever
My dad arrived twenty minutes ago, and we’ve hardly made it past the foyer. He’s been inspecting everything like we’re at a crime scene and offering positive commentary about all of it. I think he’s worried I’ve reached some sort of quarter-life crisis and wants to avoid talking about the whole dropping-out-school-and-getting-married thing at all costs.
“I’ve really got to make it up here more.” He glances around. “Is that real velvet on the couch?”
“I think so.”
“Apple TV? We’re living in Roku City at home, but this is much fancier.”
I glance down the hallway towards Whitney’s room. Is she sleeping again? Is she really feeling better, or did she just say that for my benefit?
“So, where am I sleeping? I could use a shower. Feeling a bit of the driving ick.”
I don’t know where my father learned the word ick, but I’m not going to question it. Probably from Love Island. I show him where the bathroom is and then guide him to my room.
“I’ll be in the living room if you need me,” I tell him, leaving him to settle in. Once I hear the shower start, I put the kettle on, knowing my dad would like a cup of tea when he’s freshened up. I’m pouring the hot water into two cups when I hear footsteps coming down the hallway. I turn to see Whitney padding into the kitchen in her oversized t-shirt and sweats.
“Hey,” she breathes out, crossing towards me. I want to reach out and wrap her in my arms, but instead, I flex my fingers at my side.
“How are you feeling?” I ask her, trying to keep my voice even.
“Like I’ve been run over by a truck,” she replies.
I open the fridge and take out a La Croix, handing it to her. “My dad’s here.”
“Oh shit.” She glances down the hall towards my room. “I wish I looked better.”
“You look good,” I tell her.
“Coming from you, that’s a glowing compliment.”
I scowl, frustrated that she always seems to misunderstand me. “You always look stunning, Whitney. You don’t need me to tell you that. You’re probably the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known.”
What the hell did I just say?
Whitney blinks back at me, silence settling between us in the aftermath of my admission.
“Wow, that water pressure is incredible, Li. I feel like I’m getting the five-star New York experience right now,” Andy calls from the hall as he enters the room… in a fluffy white robe and bunny slippers.
“Dad,” I groan. “What are you wearing? Can you put some clothes on?”
“What?” He glances down at his slippers. “What’s wrong with this? I’m getting comfortable.”
Whitney giggles from behind me and crosses the room to my side. “Hi, I’m Whitney. It’s so nice to meet you,” she greets him, her expression warm. I wish she looked at me like that. No hint of wariness, no sign of skepticism. Just open friendliness.
God, what’s wrong with me? I’m jealous of my own dad now?
“The missus! Thanks so much for letting me crash with you,” my dad says, sticking his hand out and shaking hers. “I’d hug you, but I think my son might be right for once. I should get dressed. Didn’t realize you were here.”
She waves her hand. “Don’t worry about it. We’re family now, right?”
Family.
I swallow the sudden lump in my throat and turn away from them, fiddling with the teacups. “I made tea, Dad.”
“PG Tips?”
I nod, the corner of my mouth pulling upwards. “Only the finest for your five-star New York experience.”
He laughs and shuffles out of the room, his slippers smacking against the floor.