For a while, we talk about Superhero Day, and Sam’s first taste of art and craft since he left primary school.
“This was a really shitty place before you,” Sam says and kisses my forehead, his warm lips heating my skin.
“Oh, don’t say that.”
“Just speakin’ the truth,” he says on an exhale.
“You’re just saying that because you never ventured out of your room. You never gave people the chance to get to know you.”
“And I have to say, before you, Kathleen could be such a tyrant. She’s changed, and I reckon it’s because she has this enthusiastic young thing working for her. A prodigy. Someone who can take the reins when she decides she’s too old for this shit. I can totally see you doing it, too.”
“Pfft. I don’t think so.” I’m too young, and besides, I’m sure Kathleen isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. She’d be fifty, at the most, and she’s fit and healthy.
“Take a compliment, Janie. For me, you’re the only thing that makes this place feel like home. That’s why your photo is on the wall, and nothing else.”
“Okay, well, I appreciate you saying that. Thank you.”
Before too long I have to say goodbye to attend to my hangry sidekick.
Leaving Sam gets harder each time.