Page 49 of Tangled Emotions

“Do I look like him?”

“No. You look like Uncle Geno.”

“I guess that makes sense.”

“Why’s that?”

“Because the girls at the game always think he’s my dad.”

I heard my mom’s laughter from the other room as she called out. “Your uncle has issues.”

“Hey, Mom?” Mattie got up and came around the table, hugging me. “Thanks for tellin’ me.”

“You’re welcome. If you have any other questions, I’ll answer them. I wasn’t trying to keep this from you, Matthew, I just wanted to wait until you were ready.”

“I love you, Mom.”

“I love you too, Matt.”

“I’ll see you in the morning. Have fun with Aunt Ronnie.”

And just like that, my little boy’s world was okay again.

That could’ve been worse.

“Have fun, my baby.” Mom smiled at me.

“I’ll try.”

“Edith?”

“Yeah, Mom?”

“It’s okay to have some fun. You’re young.”

“Thanks.”

Taking a deep breath, I left and drove to the pub. The music on the radio help distract me from thinking about Greg and his bitch wife, Lori.

When I got there, I parked and went inside to find Ronnie. She waved me over to the bar, smiling as I walked up.

“What?”

“You look amazing!” She searched my face. “What’s wrong?”

“Mattie asked about his dad.”

Her eyes grew wide. “Oh no, how did that happen?”

“Mom told him I was hoping to see someone here.” I nodded as her mouth dropped open. “And then he asked me why he didn’t have a dad.”

“You need more than a beer.” She chuffed out a laugh. “Jack and coke?”

“Please.” I dropped my head on the counter.

“You knew this day would come.” Ronnie poured my drink and pushed it into my hand.

Sitting up, I took a deep drink. “I know.”

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