Page 53 of Accidental Baby Daddy

“Dad, why didn’t you like her? You were always so hard on her, but when things were good, she made my life have meaning.” I eyed him carefully, trying to glean information from his stoic expression.

My father sighed. “She distracted you, son,” he admitted. “You were crazy over her and you guys were just kids. I was afraid that she’d get pregnant and you’d forget about all your plans. And… she was just… flighty, you know? Unfocused.”

I did know, actually. She was still doing that stuff to me. She was always scared of commitment. I knew her family hadn’t taught her much about stable relationships, but it had always hurt that she couldn’t be direct with me about herplans for the future. It had hurt that she didn’t even try to explain what happened with Tristan.

But I also knew that I had been a hothead and that I hadn’t really given her a chance to explain anything to me. I had just assumed the worst about her, like my dad had. The thought made my stomach roll. I had been an ass, and I was just now realizing it. But that didn’t mean I had to forgive her for cheating on me, or up and vanishing one day without a word.

“Look,” I said. “Krista’s got this handled. Why don’t we go somewhere to eat?”

Dad shook his head. “I’ve got steaks marinating at home.”

“Well then, you can cook for me,” I said, a slight smile slitting his face.

“If you’re sure you’re not needed here…”

“I’m sure,” I said quickly, throwing a sloppy salute at Krista. She smiled, nodding. I knew she’d call if she needed anything.

I followed my father back to his place. Upon entering, I noticed it was suspiciously clean.

“Did you hire someone?” I asked.

He snorted. “No. I can clean up after myself.”

I was surprised but also proud. Especially since it seemed obvious that he’d quit drinking. He didn’t exactly have a problem, but he certainly leaned on it too much when he and my mom split up.

“You seem to be doing great, Dad. Have you thought about getting back on the market?”

He stared at me. “You’re not suggesting what I think you’re suggesting.”

I laughed. “Why not?”

“Your mother and I?—”

“Have been separated for nearly a year,” I interjected gently. “Maybe it’s time to move on.”

My father went quiet, and I almost felt bad about bringing it up. “I’m just not ready, Ollie.”

“I understand.”

He looked at me sideways. “Does this mean that she’s moving on? Seeing someone else?”

I groaned. “Dad, don't do that. Don’t jump to conclusions.”

He sighed. “I know it’s none of my business, but I can’t help wanting to know.”

“I honestly don’t know, Dad. She’s kept to herself for the last few months. I haven’t heard anything.”

He headed to the kitchen and grabbed the steaks before going to the patio and tossing them on the grill. While he grilled outside, I made the baked potatoes and vegetables inside.

By the time it was all done, my mouth was practically watering.

My steak was cooked to a perfect medium rare, and I moaned when I put the first bite in my mouth.

“It’s good, right?” my dad asked, smiling, and I nodded, slicing once more into the delicious piece of meat.

“You’ve always been the grill master.”

He chuckled. “Your mom always thought so.”

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