Page 15 of Love Under Construction

“Then, I suggest you take a good look in the mirror and have a talk with yourself.” He says confidently. “Trust me on this. Love her. Take care of her. And for Christ sake, don’t like Dehlia drive her too crazy.”

Unsure of what to say back to him, I nod, thankful when the room goes silent, and we return to, watching the game.

Liv and her mom flutter in and out bringing us both sandwiches for lunch. Mr. H’s goes untouched, but he sips on the iced tea. He speaks up again as I finish my sandwich and push the plate to the side.

“Jay, help me stretch out here, will ya? Where’s the damn remote to lower this bed some?” He looks around.

I stand quickly and find the controls, lowering it until he’s comfortable.

Once he’s resting, I take my cue and say my goodbyes to the ladies. I’ve got one more stop I need to make before I go to the airport.

In my dad’s truck, I put the windows down and turn the radio up, letting the noise drown out the intense feelings that are lingering around me. Trey’s house is fifteen minutes outside of town, just enough time to, hopefully, clear my head.

Turning off the main road, I hit Trey’s dirt driveway and smile. My old friend is waiting for me on the porch. This house looks just as good as it did that day we added the last nail. Hell, it looks better. With the landscaping and green grass growing in, it’s looking more like home.

He’s walking down off the porch to greet me as I jump out of my Dad’s truck.

“Hey man, how’s Pops?” he asks as he claps me on the back.

I shake my head. “Not good man. Not good.”

“Yeah, that’s what I heard. I’m guessing that has something to do with why you asked to meet up with me on a Sunday.”

“It does,” I sigh. “I appreciate everything you’re doing here for me while I’m in New York. Things look like they’re running smooth.”

Trey’s been my right-hand guy since I started my business. He’s one of the few people I trust completely. Which is why I know he’s the only person I can hand this off to.

“Is there a ‘but’ coming?” He laughs as I lean back against the truck,

“Sort of,” I shrug. “How do you feel about New York?”

“What?” Trey sputters.

“I’d like you to take over The Mason Center project for a few weeks.”

“Well, I can’t say I wasn’t expecting it. You sure?”

“I’ve already talked with the developer and the rest of the guys. They’re on board. I want to be back here by the end of the week at the latest. I know it’s last minute, but if you can get to New York by the middle of the week, I think I can get you up to speed. It’s just until things here settle down.”

Trey cracks a smile, “You like her, don’t you.”

I must be transparent. “It’s not just Liv though. You know Pops has been like a second father to me.”

“I know man. And I know you wouldn’t be asking if this wasn’t important. I already figured this was what you wanted, so I warned Vicki. As long as I make it back before my daughter’s born, we’re good.”

“I’ll have you back here before then; you have my word,” I tell Trey as we shake hands. “I appreciate this.”

“All you’ve done for my family and me? I owe you this.”

I strongly disagree, but I’m not about to argue with Trey. I did what any decent human would do for a friend. And I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

“I’ll be there Tuesday. I’ve got a few things I need to tie up here tomorrow. One more question though, Boss.”

“What’s that?”

“Do you want me to put someone else in charge here or are you taking over while your back?”

“I’ll handle the homefront. I think Peter can handle the few days between. Let them know I’ll check in once I’m back in town.”

---