Page 126 of DadBod

“What is it?”

“Diary of a Nerd or something like that.”

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid?”

“That’s it.”

“I’ve seen it. It’s funny. Calvin will love it.”

“Will I?”

“I think you’ll laugh, yes.”

“I’ll take your word for it, sweetheart.”

“Well, you’d better get to it. I can hear the little guy in the background.”

“I’m not little, Elizabeth. I’m eight.”

“Sorry,” I say loudly, but I’m not even sure he can hear me.

“It’s okay. Remember for next time.”

Rome’s low rumble of a chuckle makes my body come alive. “I miss you guys.” Both of them.

His voice is soft but deep when he replies. “We miss you too.”

We’re quiet for a little bit until he sighs. “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about everything.”

Me too.

“When you get home, Elizabeth. I’d like to start over.”

“Start over?”

“Yes. I’d like to start by letting everyone know that we’re in a relationship.”

“Uh––”

“That is if you’re amenable to that.”

Am I? A relationship? Yes. I think I am. I meant what I said; I miss him. I miss being there with the kids, being part of a family. “I am.”

“Good. Because I love you, honey. So fucking much.”

“I love you too, Rome.”

“Finally,” Ryann grumbles from the other bed. In a much louder voice, she adds, “Good job, Dad. You can shower now.”

It catches me off guard, making me laugh.

“Ha ha. Tell her she’s a smart-ass.” Rome sounds grumpy, but it doesn’t last long.

“You can text that to her.” I’m not relaying that message. Ryann and I are in a good place right now. She hasn’t gotten bitchy with me all day. It probably has less to do with me and more to do with the cute lifeguard that wouldn’t stop talking to her. I was a bit concerned someone was going to drown on his watch, but they didn’t, thank goodness.

As soon as Rome and I hang up, Ryann rolls onto her side to face me. “How long have you loved my dad?”

Oh boy.

---