Page 26 of Until Landon
“It’s fine. Tell me what’s happening.”
“So he came home yesterday afternoon. I had fed the animals, organized his room. Got the groceries. I have to set up the doctors’ appointments this afternoon. And pick up a prescription. There’s a list and I’m happy to do it all.”
Silence follows.
“And?”
“And the circus is in town. He’s like a bratty kid mad that Universal Studios isn’t on the agenda after Disneyland. He’s pissing and moaning about everything I do! Can you believe it? This is bullshit.”
“It’s going to take a minute, Landon. He is as out of his element as you are. Recovering from two surgeries. The sprained ankle. It’s a lot.”
His deep sigh says it all. I add another thought.
“You do realize this is only day two?”
He chuckles at that one.
“Yeah, I know. So when are you coming to visit? Say today. I never got my goodnight kiss, and I need it now.”
The thought of kissing him changes the day.
“Oh really? What about what I need?”
“Tell me what it is, and I’ll give it to you, no questions asked.”
I feel like digging my toe in the carpet and sticking a finger in my dimple.
“Maybe.”
“No maybe about it. So when is it going to happen?”
“Don’t you need a few days to settle? Ronnie may not want company at all.”
His voice raises.
“Dad! Kim says you may not want company. Tell her.”
“Oh my God, Landon! Is he right there listening?”
“Yeah. He knows he is bugging the shit out of me. I’m doing the same to him.”
I hear the voice of his dad in the background. “I’m the one in hell! Come over pretty girl. Rescue me from an ungrateful son!”
This is the first time I understand their dynamic. Their love language is bluster and chest thumping. I took it all too seriously when he was complaining the last few weeks. Maybe Landon was only venting.
“I happen to be free today.” I decide on the spot.
Landon’s tone changes.
“Great. What time?”
“Does one work? How about Mexican food? I make good enchiladas.”
“Yes. And yes. That would be perfect. Do I need to get anything?”
“Get calm. Everything is going to work out.”
“I have no idea how you know that, but you say it with such certainty I’m going to believe you.” He raises his voice. “If we can survive the day!”
