Page 27 of Absolute Certainty
“Where’d you hear that toxic nonsense? Sleep isn’t for the weak; it’s what every human body needs.”
“Some boy at school.”
“Well, that nameless kid is wrong, and you can tell him that the next time you see him again.”
She giggled with her mouth full of ice cream again. “Okay, okay, sleeping is important, but can we still play a little?”
“Yeah, but on one condition.”
“What?”
“I get to be the Donkey this time. You know, in honor of Father’s Day and all.”
Some sort of a dramatic cackle unleashed from her throat. “But I get to do the hero-time quest?”
“Always,” he confirmed.
With a big grin, she scarfed down her last bit of ice cream and then ran to start the game in the living room.
Jay took a spoonful of his, recalling the text Sahar had sent him earlier. A simpleHappy Father’s Day,yet it had meant so much.
Looking at the time on his stove, he realized that the awards would be over by now. Jay opened Google to search for the results. Glancing through,Midnights at Pemberleyhad taken quite a few accolades home. It also looked like Ethan won, too. But when he located the category Sahar’s nomination was in, the winner hadn’t been her. It was an actress named Jodi Holbrook. Sure, he hadn’t seen Sahar’s performance—yet—but he wanted her to win.
Was she upset? Did it ruin her day? Did she care about these things? Her sister was in town for the show, too. He remembered her telling him that a few days ago.
He exited out of the article and texted her. What would he even say? What was appropriate?
JAY
Hey, I hope you’re not too upset by the outcome of the awards. If it’s any consolation, I would’ve given it to you if I had any say.
“Ready, Dad?” he heard Eloise say from the couch where she was already seated.
Nodding, Jay stood up and took their bowls to the dishwasher. “Coming.”
His phone buzzed after a few seconds.
SAHAR
Ha! And I would’ve politely rejected. I’m not at all upset. I was rooting for Jodi. Her performance was the best thing I’ve seen this year!! It's an honor just to be nominated alongside her.
A low laugh emanated from him as he read the words. He was again so taken aback by how easily he appreciated her outlook. Sahar was passionate about the industry, and it was often evident, but especially in these moments where she championed her peers.
JAY
Ah, good then, I suppose. I’m glad you’re not upset.
SAHAR
All good here, really. I appreciate you checking in, though ??
He wanted to keep the conversation going, but he repliedanytimeand put his phone down, joining his kid on a night of battling fairytale characters.
8
SAHAR
With a few short days with her sister and only one day off to actually hang out, time had gotten away from Sahar. When they weren’t working, it was one event after another. Lovely days, but still tiring.
