Page 88 of Hot Four Teacher
“A peace offering,” she says.
“Is it poisoned?”
“If I were going to poison you, I would’ve done it with your cupcake. You inhaled that thing.”
She walks in the front of the swing to have a seat next to me. “Sorry I took my anger out on you.”
“Eh, I’ve been your brother for over thirty years. I’m used to it by now.”
She rolls her eyes but smiles. “I’m just not sure how to handle Dad.”
“Jenny, I get that you think you have to take care of everybody, but have you ever thought that Dad doesn’t need to behandled?Maybe it’s best to just let him do his own thing.”
“I know you’re right. But that doesn’t make it any easier. We almost lost him, and I don’t want that to become a reality.”
I pat her knee. “You know that no matter what you do, thatwilleventually be a reality. Why not let him enjoy the time that he has?”
She sighs. “I hate it when you’re right.”
“Really? Because I love it.”
“So, what’s been up with you? How’s everything since the move?”
“Pretty good. I like the house and my new job. And coaching is going alright.”
“How’s the love life?” She asks.
“Uh…you know, it’s good.”
Her eyes light up. “Really? Who is she? Tell me everything!”
“There’s not much to tell.”
“So, tell me anyway.”
I take a long swig of beer. “Her name is Michelle. We started hanging out and having a really great time, but it turns out her daughter is one of my students.”
“Yikes. Did you end things?”
“Kind of. We keep trying to, but then, we hang out, and we…don’t end things.”
She smiles and nods. “Got it. Which one of you is trying to do the ending?”
“What does that matter?”
“Oh, it matters.”
“Well, she’s the one who wants to end it, but she’s also the one who keepsnotending it.”
“Really?” She looks perplexed.
“Yes, Jenny, really. You know, therearewomen who don’t find me revolting.”
“I know that. I’m just a little surprised that you aren’t the one trying to end things.”
“Why?” I question.
“Because I would imagine this relationship would put your job at risk. Aren’t you worried about getting fired?”
