Page 93 of The Bro Date
“Hey, Mom. How you been?”
Oh, you know, back workin’ at the flower shop, but I did just sell my first painting! It’s not much, but it sure is exciting.”
“That’s good, Mom. Congrats. Buck been treating you right? Or do I need to pay him another visit?”
“Buck and I are done. I met someone new. Someone who really treats me right. His name is Corey, and I’d like for you to meet him.”
I close my eyes and pinch the bridge of my nose. I’m glad that asshole is gone, but I just wish she wasn’t immediately on to the next guy.
“Honestly, Mom, I’m glad Buck’s gone, but I’m not sure when I can stop by. Semester’s almost over, and I’ve got a lot going on with work and school. I was actually calling to tell you something, if you have a minute.”
“Of course, honey. What is it?”
“I’m seeing someone . . . a boy.”
“Oh?A boy? So you’re . . .”
“I’m bi, Mom, and Toby is my boyfriend.”
I can hear her sharp intake of air through the phone, but I can’t tell if it’s good or bad. Considering how much she adores him, I’m hoping it’s good, because we don’t need any more parental drama.
“Well, look at us, Shaney. Got ourselves a coupla boyfriends,” she laughs, making light of the news. “Who woulda thought?”
“As long as you’re happy, and he treats you right, Mom. That’s all I’ve ever wanted for you.”
“I could say the same for you, but I already know you’re happy,” she replies. “You’ve always been happiest around Toby. Even as a young boy. And don’t think I didn’t notice how protective you were over him around that jackass, Buck.”
There’s an extended silence over the phone, and I let her words settle in.
“I am happy. I love him.”
“Aww, that is so sweet, Shaney! As soon as things settle down for you two, we’ve got to do dinner together.Oh!Like a double date!”
I think I’d rather gouge my own eyes out.
“Sure, Mom.”
I don’t invite her to the symphony, especially now that she comes with an unknown plus one. She’s just not stable or trustworthy enough to count on not making a scene. I wouldn’t risk Toby’s big day. Because the kind of scene my mom likes to make usually involves the police being called.
It’s half the reason I quit soccer in middle school, with the other reason being I couldn't afford all the gear.
“Corey is so sweet and thoughtful, I think you’ll really like him.”
I have no plans on meeting this mystery man of the month before he inevitably gets the boot, but I placate her nonetheless. “Glad to hear it.” My mom is almost as self-centered as Toby’s parents, and even less involved in my life. “Well, I’m off to work,” I say, wrapping up the conversation, so I can make one last phone call before I leave the house.
“Let’s plan that double date soon. Talk to you later!” Mom hollers, hanging up before I have a chance to reply.
I shake my head and pull up my contacts, tapping on Toby’s grandparentsagain.
He knows not to get his hopes up because I haven’t been able to get a hold of them, but I won’t give up. There’s still time.
I absolutely have to get Gran and Bo here.
“I’m going to be late!” Toby hollers, hopping around on one foot while he tries to put a sock on. “And if you’re late, you can’t play.Even me!Professor’s rules. My parents would love that, huh?” he laughs sardonically.
The orchestra’s end-of-the-year symphony and concerto starts at six for the public, but Toby has to be there an hour and a half early to warm up.
“Come here,” I murmur, holding my hand out. I glance down at my other wrist, noting that he has forty minutes before he needs to be inside the auditorium. “You’ve got plenty of time,” I reassure him, straightening his tie and adjusting his collar while he peers up at me with wide, terrified eyes. “Listen. You got this, okay? You’re incredible with that bow, and you’ve practiced more than I’ve ever seen you practice before. I’ll be in the audience, with all of our friends, cheering you on. The only family you need is the one we’ve chosen.”
