Page 107 of Pining for Pierce

“It wasn’t, but I’m okay now.”

“Sure?” I ask, needing to know.

“Positive.”

“It’s not long until I can close the store, so I’ll see you soon, and give you a big hug.”

“I’m looking forward to it already.”

“Me too.” I let out a sigh. “Are you smiling?”

“Yes,” she says.

“Are you happy?”

“Very.”

“So am I.”

We end the call, and I finish making my coffee, carrying the cup back through to the store, almost jumping out of my skin when I see my dad standing there, waiting.

“Dad?” He nods his head. “Sorry. I was just…” I glance down at the cup in my hand, and he nods again. It’s been ages since I’ve seen him, although he hasn’t changed. He still looks serious, staring at me through dark-rimmed glasses, his hair cut neatly. It looks as though he’s been playing golf. But that’snormal for him on a Saturday and I put down my cup, keeping the counter between us, hoping I won’t need it for protection.

“I heard what happened,” he says, and I sense he’s pissed because it wasn’t me who told him. I’m not in the mood for a fight, and I just stare at him, waiting. “Brady told me what you did… that you saved Harley.” He holds out his hand, stepping closer. I’m taken by surprise and for a moment, I don’t move, but then I remember my manners and take his hand, giving him a firm shake. “I’m proud of you, son,” he says, shocking me. He’s the second person to say that to me in twenty-four hours. It sounded great coming from Harley. From my dad, I’m not so sure.

“You are?”

“Of course I am.”

“Have you heard about the exhibition?” I ask.

“There are rumors about it all over the town, so it’s kinda hard to avoid.”

“And are you proud of me for that, too?”

He pauses for a second, which feels like thirty, and then says, “I guess I’m just gonna have to accept this is what you want.”

“It is… and so is Harley.”

“You mean…?”

“I mean, we’re not just friends anymore. We’re together.”

He frowns. “Because of what happened? Because you saved her?”

“No. We were together before that happened.”

“I see,” he says, his face clearing. “Well… congratulations.”

“Thanks.”

He nods his head, shifting from one foot to the other. “I—I guess if you hit the big time with this exhibition of yours, you won’t be staying around here for much longer.”

“I don’t know what’s gonna happen, Dad. This could be a one-off, or it could be the beginning of something incredible.” I take a breath. “But whatever it is, I’ll try not to be a stranger.”

He smiles. “Thanks, Pierce. I’d like that, and I’m sorry. I’m sorry I didn’t understand.”

“It’s okay.”

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