Page 66 of Something Forever

“What did he say? Did it work, you think?”

I shrug. “He wasn’t too receptive, but I think I got through to him a little bit. I hope I did.”

His shoulders seem to loosen as he relaxes, leaning against the bar. “Thanks, man. I appreciate it.”

“Keep me updated,” I tell him.

Something about Jackson reminds me of Luke. Maybe it’s that Luke’s glasses always used to slip down his face during class. I’d catch his gaze during exams while he’d push them back up his nose and send me a signature smile, one that said we got this.

I miss that fucking smile.

The next day, I’m in my room avoiding my roommate when my phone rings with a call from my dad. For a moment, I consider ignoring it, terrified that he’s going to ask about school and all my secrets will come tumbling out. Instead, I press the phone to my ear.

“Liam! I can’t wait to see you.”

Despite myself, I grin at the sound of my dad’s voice. “Yeah, me too. Should be fun.”

“Damn right. It’s been too long. You’re so busy with school, I never get to see you.”

I suppress a sigh. It’s time. I have to bite the bullet.

“Listen, Dad. I’m not in school anymore. I’m off it.”

Silence greets me on the other line.

“Dad?”

“What do you mean?”

“I dropped out. Also, I’m married.”

My dad roars with laughter for a solid minute before he settles down, chuckling lightly. “Good one, Li.”

I shake my head. “I’m not joking. I know it’s a dick move to tell you like this, but I knew you’d figure it out when you came to visit, and I thought it was better to tell you before.”

He quiets. “You’re serious?”

“Yeah.”

“Well.” He clears his throat. “I wish you’d told me. These are major life decisions, Liam.”

“Trust me, I know.”

“Who is she?”

“She’s… ” I trail off, unsure what to say. I settle on the truth. “She’s amazing. I’ve never met anyone like her.”

He hums, and I imagine he’s smiling. “Does she have anything to do with you dropping out?”

“No. I did that before I even met her.”

“Li, what’s going on? If you’re in love, I can understand, but you’re making a huge mistake quitting school?—”

“Dad, please no lectures right now. Can you just respect that I need to make my own decisions, even if they end up being mistakes?”

He pauses for a moment. “As long as you’re happy, I’m happy. I’m excited to meet her.”

My heart skips a beat. “Me too.”

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