Page 92 of Until Landon
“You’re luckier than me. You still have your dad.”
I’m staying out of the conversation now. It is more interesting to listen.
“Life can be so fucking harsh. I’m really sorry, man.”
It was just two sentences, but it was one man expressing empathy to another. No sugarcoating. But without a doubt genuine.
“Thanks.”
It ends there. Another ribbon tied.
“This is the street.”
We make a turn onto a single loaded tree lined avenue with brick houses. A hill faces the homes, and above it is another row in the same style. Blossoms on the hill’s bushes make their last appearance of the season. It’s pretty here.
“She said it’s the last house before the cul de sac.”
Slowing, we approach the one story small home, with the old oak in front. The car is not parked in front.
“Now I’m nervous,” Landon says, shutting off the engine.
“I have a good feeling. Take a breath.”
We exit the truck and I see Landon straighten his shirt. He dressed for the occasion. When I questioned his choice he said he wanted to show the woman respect. She was a southern woman and would appreciate a man who knew the occasion called for it.
As we are walking toward the front door, it opens. I assume it’s the daughter who wheels her mother to the edge of the entry. The younger woman smiles. The older one does not.
“Hello!” The daughter waves. “I’m Maddie!”
Landon walks ahead and takes the outstretched hand. “Hi.” But then he addresses the woman in the chair.
“Hello, Mabel. It’s nice to meet the woman who understands a car’s worth.”
“Hello.”
“It’s about more than the money, isn’t it?”
I’m not sure he is landing his dismount. He may have jumped too quickly. She lifts her chin and meets my eyes.
“Who’s this?”
“This is Kim, and Hunter.”
“Hello, Mabel. Can I call you that?”
“It’s my name, so I suppose you should.”
Ha!
“And what about this one?”
“I’m Hunter. Nice to meet you, Ma’am.”
Ma’am? I have not heard him use that word in years.
She looks him up and down and behind her eyes something sparks. But it goes unsaid.
“Come on in,” Maddie says, pulling the wheelchair back and around.
