Page 24 of The Art of Being Merry
I don’t thinkI’ve ever wanted a woman to agree to anything as much as I want Clementine to say yes to coming inside and seeing my trees. I’m only slightly embarrassed at the fact I live with my parents, which isn’t as creepy as it sounds because it’s a full apartment they could rent out to a stranger, but instead rent to me.
For very cheap.
It’s not like I advertise where I live to many people. Sure, my siblings like to razz me, but it’s their job. I give it right back about different things.
“If you have something else to do, they can come back another time to see the trees.” Please say no, I silently beg.
“I’m certain we have time for a quick visit. Three trees in one house is a record for us.”
“Oh, goodie. This will be so fun. When are we getting our tree, Mama?”
From my position in the front seat, I don’t miss Clementine’s gasp, nor her whispered, “Oh, shit.”
“Soon, Jace. We’ll need some help getting it into the house and all set up. Remind me to ask Uncle Beckett to help us.”
“I’ll do it.” I don’t even question the words spewing from my mouth. Maybe it was the whole “uncle” thing since I decided I’m going to be their surrogate uncle, too.
Or maybe it was the way her voice sounded sad at having to admit she needed help. That she couldn’t do something on her own.
No matter the underlying reason, I’m happy to help.
Clementine pulls into my driveway, and I direct her to park behind my truck. When the van’s parked and shut off, she looks over at me, her green gaze sizing me up. “You know what? After today, I’m not questioning your motives. Thank you. We’d love to take you up on your offer.”
Atlas appears between our seats. “How about tonight?”
Clementine’s not shocked by his closeness. “We’ve taken enough of Dax’s time, don’t you think? One day soon, though.”
“Tomorrow?” Jace wonders hopefully.
I stifle my laughter. I’ve already overstepped a bunch today, so I’ll follow her lead on this one.
“It’s a school and workday, so we’ll have to play it by ear. Dax might have other things to do tomorrow after work.”
“I don’t.” The words escape me instantly, with no thought involved. I’m pretty sure the only things on my agenda are work and Monday Night Football, but if not, whatever’s on my calendar can be moved.
“He doesn’t,” Atlas confirms, his attention on his mom.
“Guess it’s settled then,” Clementine says resignedly, yet her tone gives no bearing about her opinion. “Tomorrow we’re getting our tree.”
Jace and Atlas hoot and holler, their cheers infectious. I refrain from joining in for her sake, not theirs.
“Dax, can we see your trees now?” Jace pleads, complete with his hands folded under his chin. “Please,” he adds without prompting.
“Let’s do this.”
We pile out of the car and head into my apartment through the door by the garage. I usually use the entrance in the back, but it’s less intrusive this way. It’s also less crowded.
“Welcome to my humble abode.” The boys take off for the larger of the two trees, while my sight trains on Clementine, who scrutinizes the place with shrewd eyes.
The dishes in the sink.
The papers stacked on the counters.
The pile of laundry on the couch.
I can’t be certain she’s looking at any of those, but I’m suddenly more self-conscious of how untidy I am. Not that her house was immaculate, though hers is a work in progress.
“It’s . . . bigger than I pictured. Very spacious living space.”
